SSP Eye Wear is quality without the cost. I am very impressed with the features of the Methow kit as it included two nose pieces, six different lenses in a variety of tints, a retaining strap, microfiber cloth, and a rectangular rigid case for storage. The lenses and frames are z87+ rated, meaning that they can withstand high velocity and high mass impacts, including, spalling, gas blow back, and other debris. The lenses wrap around completely, and the frame is not in view at all, allowing for unobstructed view of your target. This was the most comfortable set of eye protection that I have worn because it does not feel like my head is being crushed. One of my favorite features is the second included nose piece as it allows for quick swapping of lenses to meet light conditions as they change, for example, going from the sunglass lenses to a clear lens to use night vision devices. This was something that I had to do while I was in the Army and most of the time I kept a separate set of glasses to make the transition easier. This kit was provided to me by SSP for evaluation and review.
Lens Features:
- Clear Anti-Fog lenses (92% light transmission) Optically correct decentered lens provides zero distortion. Low light, rainy, overcast and nighttime use.
- Yellow Anti-Fog lenses (85% light transmission) Optically correct decentered lens provides zero distortion. Increases visibility of orange targets allowing more light to reach the eye and reduces eye fatigue with proprietary blue blocking technology. Low-light, overcast conditions
- Orange Anti-Fog lenses (51% light transmission) Optically correct decentered lens provides zero distortion, brightens orange targets with sharper contrast, blocks haze. Reduces eye fatigue with proprietary blue blocking technology. Medium to low light conditions
- Purple Anti-Fog lenses (36% light transmission) Optically correct decentered lens provides zero distortion, superior contrast, increased definition. Used to view orange targets against sky blue and green backgrounds. Excellent for reduced snow glare. Medium to bright light conditions
- Pink Anti-Fog (35% light transmission) Optically correct decentered lens provides zero distortion, designed to enhance orange targets against green backgrounds. Reduces eye fatigue with proprietary blue blocking technology. Medium light conditions
- Brown Anti-Fog (28% light transmission) Optically correct decentered lens provides zero distortion, brightens orange targets and reduces eye fatigue with proprietary blue blocking technology. Bright conditions
The Chelan Kit was also provided to me by SSP Eye Wear for evaluation and review. It offers the same quality at an affordable price. The Chelan kit is unique because it can be used as standard shooting glasses and it can later be upgraded with lenses that are bifocal and allow for some magnification. The kit comes with three sets of lenses (clear, dark, and yellow), a microfiber cloth, and a soft case. This kit offers the same Z87+ rating that protects against high velocity and high mass impacts. There are two lenses that are changed out individually, and the process is very simple. The brow of the frame was built up a bit too much for my liking because any time I squinted the frame would grip my forehead and ride up. There is nothing wrong with that, just want others to be aware of how these fit before making a purchase.
One of the things that you should spend money on is quality eye protection. If you are a once a month shooter or someone who shoots thousands of rounds of ammunition a month, your eyes should always be protected. Eye injuries are particularly crippling and, in most cases, irreversible. Never skip on quality eye protection! The Methow kit is my overall favorite for the quality, fit, and included accessories. The kit runs for $129 on SSP Eyewear and there are free shipping codes and discounts for military and first responders. Similar eye protection brands, Oakley, would cost the same amount and only include clear and dark lenses.
