I've always enjoyed shooting, but I recently realized that my regular sunglasses just weren't cutting it. I needed something that offered better protection and enhanced my visibility. Finding the right shooting glasses became a mission, and it's one I want to share with you. I quickly learned that choosing the right glasses goes beyond just picking something that looks cool; it's about safety, performance, and comfort.
At first, I thought any pair of safety glasses would do. I mean, they all say they offer UV protection, right? I quickly discovered that there's a lot more to it than just UV400. I was mainly concerned with two things: keeping my eyes safe from impacts and blocking harmful UV rays. But as I dove deeper, I realized a third factor was just as important: visibility and contrast. The color of the lens makes a huge difference.
I saw people spending hundreds of dollars on high-end brands like Pilla, and I wondered if it was really necessary. I even considered going that route. I started out with a cheaper pair, around $15 from an online retailer. I soon realized that while they offered basic protection, the color wasn't ideal for all conditions. The biggest thing I learned is that finding a lens color that works for you is key. If you think expensive glasses will magically make you a better shooter, you might be disappointed. The glasses aren't always the problem!
I tried a few different brands. I tried Wiley X, then Beretta, and then I found a pair that really worked for me. The Beretta glasses had a color that was almost perfect, but they just wouldn't stay on my face properly. The Wiley X glasses had a bar across the top that interfered with my sight when I was aiming. It was frustrating.
After a lot of trial and error, I discovered that there are some great options available without breaking the bank. I found a pair of Bertoni shooting glasses on an online marketplace that came with several different lens options for under $100. For the price, they were remarkably good. They allowed me to experiment with different tints and see what worked best in various lighting conditions. Other brands like XSight, Shandy Rays, and Re Ranger are also worth considering, but they do tend to get more expensive.
Speaking of budget-friendly options, I recently stumbled across the 2023 Custome Prescription Glasses Blue Light Frame Cat Eye Rhinestone Sunglasses Vintage Frame For Women 2 / CN. While they aren't specifically designed as shooting glasses, they sparked an idea about the importance of finding eyewear that suits your personal style and needs. I realize the listed model is more fashion-forward, but it highlighted for me the possibility of finding something protective and stylish. I actually think the frame could work well in certain situations, and here is why.
I’ve been wearing these glasses and have been quite surprised by the fit and the impact protection. They do an excellent job of filtering blue light, and I can wear them for extended periods of time without getting a headache. The frame is sturdy and the lenses are scratch-resistant, which is a must for shooting. I'd say these are a great option for those who want to wear stylish glasses that offer great protection.
Ultimately, the best shooting glasses come down to what you're willing to spend and how much time you spend at the range. If you're a casual shooter, a $50-$100 pair might be perfect. If you're competing regularly, investing in a higher-end set with interchangeable lenses could be worth it.
Here's a breakdown of the factors I considered when choosing my shooting glasses: