A lot of firearm safety often focuses on the proper handling of your firearm. However, whether you’re seasoned, or a novice, wearing the appropriate eye protection at the gun range is essential for safeguarding your eyes and your vision. Eye protection is a must-have accessory for every firearm owner. Wearing a pair of range glasses could save you from potentially devastating injuries.
Shield From Debris
Anyone who has gone to a shooting range before can tell you that stray fragments are inevitable. Even with adherence to all safety protocols, there’s the risk of ejected casings, bullet fragments, or general particles that can find their way to your eyes. A high-velocity impact on your eyes can lead to severe injuries, including corneal abrasions, lacerations, or even complete loss of vision. By wearing quality range glasses made with impact-resistant lenses, you create a protective barrier that helps to shield your eyes from those hazards.
Malfunctions
Firearm malfunctions can also occur, causing unexpected results. Without the proper protection, any fragments or unexpected discharges can cause serious harm. Range glasses with a wraparound design provide wider coverage, safeguarding not just the front but also the sides of your eyes, offering optimal protection against potential ricochets or backlashes.
Clear Versus Tinted
Range glasses come in a variety of styles and colors, giving you options when it comes to a certain style you’re going for. You also have to make the decision as to which lens type is right for you.
Clear range glasses are a popular choice for many enthusiasts due to their versatility and practicality. These feature transparent lenses that provide maximum clarity and allow for unobstructed view. Clear range glasses are especially beneficial in low-light conditions or indoor ranges where there may be limited visibility. They offer protection against debris while ensuring optimal target acquisition. Clear range glasses are often lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods, making them suitable for both casual shooters and professionals who require consistent protection without compromise.
Tinted range glasses come in a variety of tints, offering benefits beyond eye protection. Different tints can enhance contrast, reduce glare, and provide a more comfortable range experience in various lighting conditions. For instance, amber or yellow-tinted lenses are popular choices for shooting in low-light as they increase contrast and improve depth perception. Gray or smoke lenses are effective at reducing overall brightness and glare, making them suitable for shooting in bright outdoor environments. Some range glasses also feature polarized lenses, which effectively eliminate glare from reflective surfaces, such as water and other shiny objects. Tinted range glasses not only safeguard your eyes but also enhance visual performance, allowing you to focus on your target acquisition and maintain shooting accuracy.
In the end, trying both types of lenses and seeing which works best for what type of shooting situation you’ll be in is your best option.
Setting an Example
Beyond personal safety, wearing eye protection at the range sets an example for others to do the same which promotes a culture of safety. By demonstrating that responsible behavior and prioritizing your eye safety, you’ll inspire fellow shooters to do the same. Safety should always be a collective effort, and wearing range glasses should part of that overall commitment to maintaining a secure environment for everyone.
When it comes to protecting yourself at the range, never compromise, especially when it comes to your eyes. You only get one pair, after all. Investing in quality range glasses is a small price to pay for the long-term preservation of your vision. Accidents happen and they can happen to anyone, so it’s better to take a proactive approach and take the necessary precautions rather than risk life-altering injuries.