Latest Innovations In Eye And Ear Protection For The Range
Image: Taurus USA
Eye and ear protection are indispensable defenses against potential hazards, ensuring safety and comfort during shooting activities. There have been several advancements in safety-related products designed specifically for shooters heading to the range.
If you’re searching for cutting-edge ear and eye protection products to elevate safety standards or enhance customer offerings, look no further.
From traditional over-the-ear options to sleek earbuds and classic range glasses to fashionable eye protection, there’s a wealth of innovative products on the market to explore.
Ear Protection
Regarding ear protection for shooting, both over-the-ear and earbud-style options provide distinct advantages, catering to different preferences and needs.
“Many of our customers prefer electronic hearing protection in both styles over regular earmuffs, and for good reason. Electronic ear pro is more affordable than it once was and offers the ability for wearers to retain situational awareness without compromising their hearing safety. Options like the Walker Razor series are great for the money, and the Peltor ComTac series are popular for more serious or professional users,” expressed Zane Smith of Ares State Armory in Lawton, Okla.
Over-the-ear earmuffs provide comprehensive coverage and are often favored for their ease of use and reliability. Their large ear cups and tough construction result in superior noise reduction, effectively shielding users’ ears from loud gunshots. Additionally, many models feature sound amplification technology, allowing wearers to hear ambient sounds — such as range commands or wildlife — while still providing protection against harmful noise levels. Their adjustable headbands ensure a secure and comfortable fit for extended wear, making them popular among shooters of all levels.
On the other hand, earbud-style ear protection delivers a more compact and lightweight alternative, ideal for shooters who prioritize portability and minimalism. These earbuds typically sit snugly in the ear canal, providing a more discreet and low-profile option than bulky earmuffs. While they may not have the same level of noise reduction as over-the-ear muffs, they still provide adequate protection against gunshot noise, especially when paired with foam or silicone tips that create a tight seal. Some earbud-style options also feature sound amplification technology, enhancing situational awareness while providing protection.
Ultimately, the choice between over-the-ear earmuffs and earbud-style ear protection depends on personal preference, comfort, noise reduction requirements and portability needs. Some shooters may prefer the comprehensive coverage and reliability of over-the-ear muffs, while others may opt for the compactness and convenience of earbud-style protection.
Whichever option you choose to carry in-store, prioritizing proper hearing protection is essential to helping your customers maintain their auditory health and enjoy shooting activities safely.
Decibullz
The Decibullz SAFE + SOUND custom-molded Bluetooth Wireless Earplug headphones ($99) offer unparalleled sound isolation and comfort. Crafted with custom-molded earpieces, SAFE + SOUND ensures a personalized fit for various activities. Thanks to its reliable battery life, wearers can indulge in their favorite music, podcasts and calls without interruption.
What sets SAFE + SOUND apart is its compatibility with Decibullz custom-molded earplugs, enhancing its versatility and protection capabilities. Seamlessly pairing with Decibullz earplugs, SAFE + SOUND guarantees a perfect fit, boosting its noise reduction rating (NRR) up to 21 with silicone tips and 18 with foam tips.
Utilizing the innovative Easy Shape System, Decibullz custom-molded earplugs offer effortless customization. Customers can heat the thermoplastic molds in boiling water, allow them to cool and form them to their ears for a personalized fit. Decibullz earplugs are re-moldable, ensuring a comfortable fit every time.
Walker’s
Looking for a top-notch hearing protection option without compromising on your customers’ situational awareness? Look no further than Walker’s. Walker’s earmuffs are arguably the most popular choice on the market, with various model options.
Walker’s Razor Earmuffs are engineered with an ultra-low-profile design. They have slim cups for a snug fit, effectively shielding the wearer’s ears while allowing them to maintain awareness of their surroundings. A key feature is the Razor’s sound amplification, utilizing dual high-gain microphones to deliver clear, full surround hearing.
Crafted with durability in mind, these muffs sport a rugged rubberized coating and a sound-dampening composite housing, protecting the interior electronics from damage. User-friendly controls include a recessed volume knob for easy adjustments and an exterior battery door for hassle-free replacement.
Eye Protection
In recent years, advancements in eyewear technologies have revolutionized safety and performance for shooters. Innovations cater specifically to shooters’ needs, offering enhanced protection, clarity and comfort. High-impact-resistant materials such as polycarbonate provide robust shielding against debris and projectiles, ensuring the safety of the wearer’s eyes.
Additionally, specialized lens coatings, such as anti-fog and anti-scratch treatments optimize visibility and durability in challenging shooting environments. Some eyewear models feature interchangeable lenses, allowing shooters to adapt to varying light conditions for improved target acquisition.
Moreover, some designs with adjustable features ensure a comfortable and secure fit, enhancing wearability during extended shooting sessions.
Corey Allen of Nelson Tactical, Green Bay, Wis., stated, “Many shooters bring their own eye protection. We see a lot of high-end brands like Oakley. As far as over-the-counter in-house purchases, the basic 3M basic glasses are the most popular.”
Many brands offer eye prescription customization, so shooters can now enjoy superior eye protection and meet their vision needs on the range and in the field.
Oakley
Oakley has continued to produce exceptional eyewear, and they spared no expense with the Oakley Radar EV Path Sunglasses (starting at $211). With a single, taller wraparound lens, these glasses provide an extended field of view and enhanced full protection. The lightweight plutonite polycarbonate lenses and high-definition optics deliver razor-sharp vision with unparalleled clarity and impact resistance. Some styles feature the innovative Prizm lens, providing ultra-precise color tuning for optimal performance in any environment.
Constructed with a flexible frame, these sunglasses have a secure and comfortable fit, even during intense activity or sweaty conditions. The wraparound style provides additional eye protection, making them ideal for outdoor ranges or field use. With the option for interchangeable lenses and included accessories like a microfiber storage bag and vault case, the Oakley Radar EV Path Sunglasses have both versatility and durability.
Wiley X
The Wiley X Saber Advanced is a top choice for shooters seeking reliable eye protection without sacrificing comfort or versatility. These are the exact glasses my husband, who is active military, was issued and wears during training. With its lightweight design, flexible nose piece and foam insert on the changeable lens, these glasses ensure a secure and enjoyable fit, even during prolonged wear. Meeting ballistic safety standards, they provide maximum protection against impacts and projectiles.
Thanks to its interchangeable lens system, the Wiley X Saber Advanced is very adaptable. Wiley X’s commitment to unparalleled protection is evident in its adherence to ANSI Z87.1 safety standards, guaranteeing optical clarity and high-velocity impact resistance. Their lens technology offers 100% UVA/UVB protection with distortion-free clarity and enhanced color contrast for improved vision accuracy.
For those requiring prescription lenses, Wiley X has the convenience of prescription-ready frames, ensuring every shooter, including youth options, enjoys the benefits of eyewear protection.
Beyond the SABER Advanced, Wiley X has a range of other options, such as the Founder, Trex and many more, catering to diverse preferences, styles and needs of users. They have a selection for those who prioritize safety without wanting to compromise on fashion.
TOROE
TOROE sunglasses are an attractive choice for shooting and everyday wear with their winning combination of affordability, style and functionality. The polarized lenses provide enhanced vision with reduced glare, ensuring clarity and visual comfort. With options like the smoke lens for Category 4 conditions and silver mirror or sunrise mirror lenses for Category 3 conditions, TOROE sunglasses cater to different light conditions while featuring a green Optical Anti-Reflective Coating (OAR) for added clarity. The hydrophobic coating adds convenience by repelling water, ensuring clear vision even in wet conditions.
Built with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses and TR90 shape-memory frames, TOROE sunglasses are both durable and flexible, able to withstand impacts and return to their original shape after bending. Plus, with a lifetime replacement warranty covering manufacturer defects, damages and even lost, broken or stolen occurrences (limited to one replacement), TOROE ensures peace of mind and long-lasting satisfaction. At an affordable price point of $85, TOROE sunglasses have exceptional value.
Importance Of Proper Safety Gear
Proper safety gear is paramount when engaging in any shooting activity. Quality eye and ear protection are essential investments. Remind customers: Neglecting to use adequate safety gear when shooting can have severe outcomes, ranging from temporary discomfort to permanent injury.
Overall, by staying updated and investing in the latest gear available, you can help customers prioritize their safety and enjoy their hobbies without compromising their well-being.
