What are tactical glasses

Eyes are a very complex and finely tuned organ in the human body that allows us to see and perceive the world around us. And at the same time, they are very vulnerable. Even a minor injury can cause serious, sometimes irreversible vision problems. Therefore, it is extremely important to protect your eyes in professions that require high concentration, such as military activities, as well as when developing accurate shooting skills at a shooting club, or during hunting. In this case, tactical glasses are indispensable.

What tactical glasses are for and how to choose them — all the details are in this publication.

Tactical glasses are specialized protective glasses, the main purpose of which is to be used in extreme conditions when there is a threat of eye damage.

The use of tactical glasses guarantees reliable protection from various negative factors, such as dust and small particles, strong air flow, ultraviolet radiation.

The main element of tactical glasses is polycarbonate lenses. The use of polycarbonate in the manufacture of tactical glasses is due to its strength and flexibility characteristics. This polymeric material has tremendous strength, namely: it is 250 times stronger than glass and can withstand even small-caliber bullets, large pellets, concrete and brick fragments. As for flexibility, polycarbonate can withstand even tank tread pressure.

Manufacturers produce several main types of tactical glasses:

Open tactical glasses are similar in design to ordinary sunglasses, and have two wide replaceable lenses that cover the eyes from the front and sides. Their level of protection is not high. Among the advantages are good ventilation and affordable cost. The main area of application is competitions and airsoft games. Open tactical glasses are also purchased by police, hunters, and athletes.

Closed tactical glasses are distinguished by the presence of a wide lens, i.e., they resemble a mask in design. Soft rubber is provided along the edges of the frame, thanks to which the glasses fit snugly against the face and guarantee maximum eye protection. They can be used both in sports competitions, shooting training, and in field conditions — when performing combat tasks. The price is noticeably higher than open-type models.

Often equipped with polarized or tinted lenses to improve visibility in various conditions. They can be used both for sports shooting and in real combat conditions, when accuracy and clarity are important.

Impact-resistant glasses are characterized by a high degree of protection from fragments during various activities, including construction work and industry. They have special lenses that are resistant to impact loads. They protect the eyes from dust and small particles. Such models are comfortable to wear and combine well with other protective equipment.

• Open
• Closed or ballistic
• Shooting glasses
• Impact-resistant

Tactical models at first glance are similar to shooting glasses, but with a higher level of protection, and are suitable for everyday use. They resemble ordinary sports glasses with tinted lenses. The thickness of the polycarbonate lens is about 2–2.4 mm. Moreover, even under excessive load, polycarbonate does not shatter into fragments, unlike glass, which protects the eyes from injury. High strength characteristics are possessed not only by the lenses, but also by the frame. It should be strong and fireproof.

Ballistic models have a larger area of protection than tactical ones, and may also have thicker lenses. A closed-type frame is used that fits snugly against the skin and does not allow spray, dust, or stones to get into the eyes. Ballistic glasses are equipped with a special strap instead of ear pieces, with which they can be conveniently attached to a helmet or hat. As a rule, such products are not worn daily, but only worn to perform certain tasks. In addition, this protective device is equipped with special lenses, often transparent or yellow.

Lenses and light filters are among the main characteristics taken into account when choosing tactical glasses. These parameters deserve special attention.

Tactical optics are often equipped with replaceable lenses, which allows you to replace them in case of damage. As we have already noted, the material for the lenses is a fairly strong material — polycarbonate, which is not afraid of water, dirt, sand, or other small particles that can damage the organs of vision.

As for light filters, in tactical glasses they can have different colors. But this parameter is needed not for beauty, but to give the accessory certain properties. For example, image clarity in twilight and in the sun.

The choice of lens color is determined by the conditions:

• Mirrored. Has a certain light transmission capacity and eliminates glare. Used in bright sun in summer, in winter and near water bodies.
• Clear lenses. A good option for cloudy weather.
• Smoke lenses. Have an anti-glare effect and block light. Best used during cloudy weather and near water.
• Yellow lenses. For dark time of day, as they increase the contrast of the image and the sharpness of objects.
• Green lenses. Allow you to see small details clearly.

Some manufacturers produce special models of tactical glasses with diopters. These accessories allow you to distinguish the smallest details at a distance and up close, even for people with poor eyesight. The products are visually indistinguishable from tactical glasses, but have a corrective effect.

How to choose tactical glasses depends on your goals and conditions of use. It is worth noting that all military equipment is held to high standards, as it is operated in difficult conditions.

To choose quality tactical glasses that will serve you well for a long time, pay attention to the following criteria:

• Type of glasses. All models are manufactured to perform clearly defined tasks. This means that before buying, you should decide where and under what conditions you plan to use the accessory. If you are talking about shooting courses, military operations, high-quality shooting glasses from trusted manufacturers will suit you.
• Material of manufacture. Polycarbonate — must be strong and resistant to mechanical stress. Glass in glasses of this type is used extremely rarely, as it is more brittle and prone to eye injuries.
• Level of protection. Maximum protection is guaranteed by closed-type glasses, i.e., in the form of a mask. With their help, you can cover not only the area around the eyes, but also the temples and part of the forehead. Open models are good for hunters and security personnel. Choose the level and type of protection for tactical glasses, depending on the conditions, the likelihood of impacts, fragments, dust and wind, ultraviolet light.
• Availability of replaceable lenses. Replaceable colored lenses should come with the glasses. You can use them in various day and night conditions. In addition, the polarization of the lenses is important, which will help minimize glare and ensure good visibility in different conditions.
• Comfort and fit. It is important that protective glasses fit well and do not cause discomfort even during prolonged wear. Good reviews are given to options with a light profiled frame.
• UV protection. The UV protection feature is also important when choosing appropriate tactical glasses, as it guarantees maximum eye protection in any conditions.
• Additional accessories. The presence of a case, cover, replaceable lenses for different lighting conditions in the package significantly simplifies transportation and expands the scope of use.

Buying quality tactical glasses is your investment in comfort and safety. Carefully study all the characteristics and features of the products and do not skimp on important details!