Best Shooting Glasses of 2024

When it comes to hitting your target, having the right gear makes all the difference—and good shooting glasses aren’t just a nice-to-have; they’re a must. These glasses aren’t just about looking the part; they’re your first line of defense, keeping your eyes safe from flying debris, improving visibility, and helping you stay focused on the shot.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up some of the best shooting glasses you can find right now. I’ve chosen each pair based on what really matters: solid ballistic protection, great lens quality, and a design that feels comfortable even after hours of wear. Whether you’re out hunting, competing, or just practicing your aim, these top picks are designed to boost your performance and keep your vision sharp.

How I Chose The Best Shooting Glasses

Picking the right shooting glasses isn’t just about safety; it’s about making your shooting experience better. With years of experience behind the scope, I’ve tried out plenty of brands and products, putting each one to the test.

To create a well-rounded guide, I also talked to other shooters and included their top picks in my testing. The result? A handpicked list that combines my experience with their insights, ensuring you get clarity, comfort, and reliability when you’re aiming. Let’s get right into it.

List of Best Shooting Glasses

Here’s our list of the best shooting glasses in the market.

Best Shooting Glasses By Rank

1. Editor’s Choice Revision i-Vis		Preferred by several GU staffers Extraordinary contrast without loss of detail	Check Amazon
2. Oakley Tombstone Glasses		GU Founder Ryan Cleckner’s choice Premium option with excellent design and interchangeable lenses	Check Amazon
3. Smith Pivlock Echo Glasses		Excellent option (should be tied for #1 and #2) Super high quality shooting glasses with interchangeable lenses	Check Amazon
4. Beretta Clash Shooting Glasses		High quality eye protection in a standard style Many shooting-specific lens color options	Check Amazon
5. Radians Revelation Glasses		Every shooter should own at least on pair of these. Inexpensive option as a backup or loaner pair.	Check Amazon

Spec Comparison of the Best Shooting Glasses

Below is a table of the specifications for the best safety glasses to use when shooting.

Best Shooting Glasses

Our top 5 best shooting glasses are:

1. Revision i-Vis EyePro
2. Oakley Tombstone Glasses
3. Smith Pivlock Echo Glasses
4. Beretta Clash Shooting Glasses
5. Radians Revelation Glasses

Reviews of the Best Shooting Glasses

Revision i-Vis Glasses Review

I can confidently say that the Revision i-Vis is the best shooting glasses on the market, and here’s why. As someone who spends a lot of time at the range and in airsoft matches, I’ve found these glasses to be top-notch. The adjustable nose bridge is fantastic, removing the discomfort you often get with prolonged wear. At just 38 grams, the frame is incredibly lightweight, making it comfortable even with ear protection.

The lens technology really stands out. With multiple lenses included, the i-Vis gives you a remarkable 130% boost in ocular resolution compared to standard options. It’s like upgrading from a basic set of crayons to a 120-count pack, offering detail that’s crucial for spotting targets and noticing subtle changes in your environment.

I know polarized lenses can sometimes limit color range, but the i-Vis manages to keep excellent color clarity. I’ve tested these glasses thoroughly, and they deliver impressive optical clarity and protection. The polycarbonate lenses meet military ballistic standards and offer full side impact protection while maintaining clear vision. The OcuMax Plus anti-fog technology is a bonus, ensuring a clear view even in challenging conditions. Though they might be a bit pricier, the Revision i-Vis EyePro’s multiple lenses, advanced technology, and excellent protection make them worth every penny.

You can read my full review here.

Oakley Tombstone Glasses Review

I’ve had a blast with the Oakley Tombstone glasses at the shooting range, making them my go-to eyewear lately. You might’ve caught me wearing them in our recent GunUniversity YouTube vids. Oakley’s got a solid reputation for great eyewear, and these shooting glasses live up to it.

What really impresses me about the Oakley Tombstone glasses is the lens height. They extend above my brows, which is a game-changer for long guns. Unlike regular shades that can block my view, these keep my line of sight clear without awkward head tilts.

The lens versatility is impressive. Swapping lenses is easy with the Switchlock system. The Tombstone kit has a great range of lenses, from clear to ones for bright days and even a special one for clay shooting. It’s like having a toolbox of vision options.

The lens versatility? Insane. Swapping them out is a breeze with the Switchlock system. Plus, the range of lenses in the Tombstone kit nails it, from clear ones to ones ideal for sunny days and even a special lens for clay shooting. It’s like having a toolbox of vision options.

I’ve ranked them second on my list, only because the durability edges more toward the Revision I-Vis. But for comfort, versatility, and that Oakley style, the Tombstones definitely make the cut.

Read my full Oakley Tombstones review here.

What I’d change: I only have two minor gripes. First, I wish they had a polarized option available. Second, I wish the arms were flatter so that they were more comfortable with over the ear hearing protection.

I prefer to wear my Howard Leight Impact Sport Bolt earmuffs while I’m doing a lot of shooting or teaching. And, even with the NoiseFighter Gel Pad upgrades, feeling earmuffs push the arms into the side of your head can be annoying and uncomfortable after a while.

Oakley Tombstone Glasses Pros and Cons

Smith Pivlock Echo Glasses Review

My loyalty to Smith Optics for shooting glasses lasted years. Why? Because they nailed the no-distortion game at the lens edges, plus those flat arms? So comfy under earmuffs. But why aren’t they my top pick? It’s a close call. These could easily tie for first if it weren’t for me reaching more for my Oakley Tombstones lately.

The edge distortion was a deal-maker for me, especially with long guns. But the taller lenses on the Oakleys? They’re a better fit for my big head. Still, these Smiths win in the arm comfort and nearly half the cost.

Here’s the lowdown: if you dig Oakley’s bigger lenses and cost isn’t a hurdle, go for them. But if you’re keen on saving some cash and want those comfy flat arms, Smith Pivlock Echos are the way.

The standout for me? Those flat arms! It’s simple but game-changing, especially under ear protection. And the clarity and protection these offer? Top-notch.

But if I could tweak things, easier lens swapping, a fancier case, and slightly taller lenses would be on my list.

Ranked these third in my list just because the Oakleys edged them out in lens height for my big ol’ noggin. But for comfort and affordability, these Smiths are a solid choice. You can read our full review of these glasses here.

Smith Pivlock Echo Glasses Pros and Cons

Beretta Clash Shooting Glasses Review

Beretta has always been my go-to for quality firearms(including my favorite shotgun), and their Clash glasses live up to the brand’s reputation. Ranked 4th in my list, these glasses are a classic choice for those preferring a standard frame style.

What caught my eye? The lens colors are fantastic for shooting – even the purple ones I’m rocking here are perfect for clay targets with a shotgun. They bring a touch of style to the range.

The non-interchangeable lenses might be a downside for some, but for many shooters, it’s a plus – no bits to lose or break. These glasses are so top-notch that I wouldn’t relegate them to a loaner set in my range bag. I’d grab the more budget-friendly Radians for that role.

What stands out? The thoughtful design prioritizes comfort. The wraparound frame sits snugly, and the adjustable rubber temple tips ensure a secure fit. They’re lightweight, adding no unnecessary pressure during extended wear.

I primarily use them for shooting clays in sunny Arizona, and the glare reduction is spot-on. The stylish orange rubber temple tips and Beretta logo add a nice touch.

The Beretta Clash glasses are a solid investment for reliable eye protection. While they may not be the cheapest, their quality construction and stylish features make them worthwhile. A great choice for shooters, whether seasoned or new to the game. You can read our full review here.

Beretta Clash Shooting Glasses Pros and Cons

Radians Revelations Glasses Review

Ranked fifth but a top pick for beginners or as backup eyewear, the Radians Revelation glasses offer practical eye protection at an unbeatable price. I’ve used these glasses often, and they’re a great option when I need dependable eye protection without spending too much. Sure, they don’t have all the fancy features of higher-end models, but they get the job done.

Why are these a must-have? They offer solid eye safety while shooting and come at a fantastic price. I always keep a few pairs in my range bag and another set in my truck. These glasses have saved me when I’ve forgotten my primary ones or when a shooting buddy needs a pair. They’re straightforward but incredibly reliable.

The adjustable design fits well on different face shapes, and the curved lenses, which I was initially doubtful about, turned out to be pretty comfortable. I really like the light smoke lens; it’s versatile for both bright and low-light conditions. They even help with night driving!

For shooting glasses, protection is key, and the Revelation glasses deliver. They might not have all the bells and whistles, but as a backup, they’re indispensable. Grab a pair for your range bag—you’ll thank me later.

Read my full review here.

Radians Revelation Glasses Pros and Cons

Buyer’s Guide for the Best Shooting Glasses

When it comes to firearms, you can never be too safe. It’s crucial to wear the right PPE, whether you’re out hunting or enjoying target practice at a shooting range. Protective shooting glasses or shooting sunglasses are essential pieces of gear that should be part of your kit whenever you head out to shoot. But don’t just grab the first pair of safety goggles you find. In this buyer’s guide to shooting glasses, I’ll help you figure out what to look for to ensure you get the best protection.

Consider a few important factors as you read through this guide: do you wear prescription glasses, and if so, do they translate well to prescription shooting glasses? Are you looking for ballistic protection, as not all shooting glasses offer this? Also, think about UV ray reduction. Having the right glasses for the job is crucial. If you wear prescription lenses, it might be worth getting an updated eye exam before investing in ballistic prescription glasses. You want the best protection, so ensure your prescription is current.

What to Look for When Buying Shooting Glasses

Quality shooting glasses are made according to specific safety standards. And there are quite a few different types of shooting glasses on the market. However, do you know what to look for? Or what safety standards your glasses should be compliant with?

Levels of Protection for Shooting Glasses

Shooting glasses must be made according to one of two eye protection standards: the ANSI or the MIL-PRF-31013 standard.

The ANSI Standard

Glasses that are made according to ANSI standards are referred to as Z87 glasses and meet all standards set by the American National Standards Institute. Z87 standard glasses all offer resistance against a .25 steel ball traveling at 150fps. This resistance level offers you ample protection, but probably won’t stop a bullet.

Shotgun ball pellets, for example, travel at a speed of 1000fps or more and will probably easily shatter these glasses, but they still offer ample protection against many other elements.

MIL-RPF-31013 Standard

These glasses can resist a 0.15 diameter ball traveling at a speed of 650fps. As you can see, these glasses offer more protection than ANSI standards, but still aren’t powerful enough to stop a projecting shotgun pellet. Still, this pair does offer quite a lot of protection from projectiles.

By buying glasses that are ANSI or MIL, you are guaranteed that the glasses you use for eye protection will offer the best impact resistance you can get from eyewear.

Shooting Glasses Construction and Material

Shooting glasses are made of several materials. The type of materials used can impact the strength and resistance of your glasses, and can also impact the weight of your glasses.

Most shooting glasses are made of a polycarbonate lens that meets required safety standards. Polycarbonate is a preferable material for shooting glasses because it’s the same one used to make bulletproof glass.

This material isn’t just powerful, it is also a lightweight product that won’t cause discomfort when you wear your sunglasses. When you are buying a pair of shooting glasses, you should also check the certification on the materials used. Quality manufacturers ensure that the glasses are scratch-resistant.

What are Shooting Glasses Lens Colors Best For?

Shooting glasses are available in a huge variety of colors. Many simply buy shooting glasses based on color preference. But, these different colors have some real effects on your vision during shooting. Here’s a quick look at the top colors you can look out for when buying shooting glasses.

Clear

These lenses are usually a standard option. Many prefer a clear lens because they are perfect for operating in low-light situations. They are also a good pick for group sessions or ranches where multiple individuals might be borrowing the same pair of eyewear.

Yellow

These tinted glasses are ideal for blocking out blue light such as blue sky-glare, haze, or light fogginess. Yellow lenses also tend to create a more detailed edge around objects, so you can see depth with greater accuracy.

Orange

Orange lenses are also great for blocking out blue light. These lenses can also bring out the orange or red colors on targets, so you can acquire your target easier.

Amber

Amber lenses will also block out some blue light. They are the second-best option behind clear lenses in low-light conditions, because you can still see relatively well while wearing these glasses. The amber lenses also create more contrast in your view, so your target can stand out better in foggy or low-light conditions.

Brown/Tan

These lenses are often mistaken for orange lenses. They also bring out orange and red-colored targets, but also offer good protection from damaging UV light. Brown lenses are usually ideal for tactical or quick-paced target practice like disk shooting, because these lenses will calm your eyes and enlarge your pupils, so you can detect movement with ease.

Gray

Gray lenses work a lot like your typical sunglasses. They offer good UV protection and reduce the glare of bright conditions. These glasses have a calming effect on your eyes, and many do enjoy buying gray glasses because they can double as sunglasses.

Blue/Purple

Purple or blue lenses are ideal for hunting or for shooting against trees, camouflaged setups, or greens. The blue or purple lenses create more contrast between green and orange or other colors. This makes it easier to blur out the background, so you can focus better on your target.

Red

There are some competitors who say red lenses will help you pick out orange target clays, making them more effective in competitive shooting events. I haven’t personally tried this, but that doesn’t mean it won’t work. This is a color you might want to research a little more before making the investment. 

Whether you choose to buy clear glasses or colored glasses, it is important to get a pair that offers needed UV protection so your eyes will be shielded from the sun’s glare.

Other Features to Watch for When Choosing EyePro

The previous three points are the most crucial to keep in mind when buying glasses. But there are also a few other things that can affect the way you feel about your new shooting shades. Here’s what to keep in mind when you go shopping for shooting glasses:

Size and Fit

It is important to feel comfortable in your eyewear. Glasses that pinch your nose and ears, slide down your face, or are otherwise ill-fitting can be very annoying to wear. The glasses you choose should fit across your nose and shouldn’t move when you look up or down. Wraparound glasses are often preferable for sport or tactical shooting conditions because they offer a tight fit.

Prescription Glass or Fit Over Glasses

You can get prescription shooting glasses custom-made with a prescription lens, but these tend to be expensive. If you do wear specs, it is better to invest in a pair of safety glasses that fit over your spectacles. This way you can still see well and protect your eyes and eyewear. But getting a pair of prescription safety glasses could be a good consideration. Do not wear non-ballistic-related corrective lenses as EyePro. That’s not how it works. 

Lens Weight

Always opt for the lightest pair of shooting glasses you can find. Any spec wearer will tell you this. Heavy specs can cause headaches and are a pain to wear, so a nice, light pair of protective eyewear is a must.

Style

Shooting glasses come in a huge variety of styles. Your personal preference will have the biggest impact on the pair you buy. It is good to get a pair that you like and that you feel comfortable wearing in public, because this encourages you to wear your protective gear more often.

Anti Fog Coating

Some shooting glasses do come with an antifog coating. This coating is ideal for shooting in cold or humid climates, since it prevents your eyewear from getting all foggy when warm air from your face suddenly condensates against your cold lenses.

Scratch Resistant Coating

If you are buying an expensive pair of glasses, it is best to look for ones that have a scratch-resistant coating. Glasses can get scratched up pretty quickly, and these scratches are irreversible. If your glasses get too scratched up, you will need to buy a new pair. This scratch-resistant coating will offer more protection, so your glasses stay in great shape for longer.

Manufacturing Date

Polypropylene and plastic used in the manufacturing of shooting glasses can expire over time. Exposure to sunlight can increase the degrading of these materials. It is good to check out the manufacturing date on sunglasses to ensure that your pair is still in good condition. It is also a good idea to replace your shooting glasses every 2 – 3 years, especially if you wear them frequently or leave your pair out in the open instead of stored in an eyeglasses case.

Keeping Your Eyes Open

Investing in the best shooting glasses isn’t just about style or enhancing your aim; it’s a crucial step in safeguarding your vision on the range or field. These meticulously chosen shooting glasses not only prioritize clarity and precision but also ensure your safety, providing a reliable barrier against flying debris or unexpected mishaps. Remember, protecting your eyes is as essential as safeguarding your hearing. If you’re looking to complement your eye protection, don’t forget to explore our comprehensive guide on the best protective earwear for a well-rounded approach to ensuring your safety and focus during your shooting adventures.

Best Shooting Glasses – FAQs

What should I look for in shooting glasses?

When picking out shooting glasses, focus on ballistic protection to ensure they meet standards like ANSI Z87.1 or MIL-PRF-31013 for impact resistance. Clear, distortion-free lenses are essential for good vision. Comfort is also key, so choose lightweight, adjustable frames that fit well even with ear protection. Interchangeable lenses are a bonus for adapting to different lighting conditions.

Can I use regular sunglasses for shooting?

Regular sunglasses might offer some protection, but they aren’t tailored for the specific needs of shooting sports. Shooting sports eyewear is designed to handle impacts better and provide clearer vision and more coverage. They usually come with features like interchangeable lenses and adjustable frames, which are really helpful for the dynamic demands of shooting.

How do I choose the right size for shooting glasses?

To get the best fit, look for glasses with an adjustable nosepiece and temples. This ensures they can be tailored to fit different face shapes comfortably. They should sit well with your ear protection and not create any pressure points.

Can I use shooting glasses for other activities?

Absolutely, many shooting glasses can double up for activities like hunting, outdoor sports, or even certain work environments. Just make sure they meet the necessary safety standards for whatever you’re using them for.