Vortex Eyewear: Ready For The Range

Vortex Optics enters the crowded eyewear market with new Banshee and Jackal sunglasses that include UV and ballistic-rated protection.

by
at USPSA posted on June 2, 2024
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Vortexeyewear 1
Vortex Optics’ new Banshee and Jackal sunglasses are made from ballistic-rated materials to safeguard against unexpected breaks during use, plus polarized, shatter-resistant lenses with an anti-scratch coating.
Photo by Jake Martens/USPSA

Vortex Optics has recently expanded into the eyewear market with two new offerings, the Banshee and Jackal models, designed to cater to a blend of tactical and lifestyle needs. These models combine advanced safety features with everyday usability, making them ideal not just for casual wear, but also for hunting, fishing and range trips.

Vortex sunglasses
Pictured above are both models of sunglasses, the Vortex Optics Banshee with black frames and gold mirror lenses (top) and the Jackal model with blue mirror lenses (bottom). The new eyewear is described by the company as “[bridging] the gap between hyper-tactical eyewear and uncomfortable safety glasses, delivering UV and ballistic-rated protection, comfort, versatility and casual style.”

 

The Banshee is designed to bridge the gap between highly tactical gear and everyday eyewear; this makes it perfect for shooters who demand robust eye protection without sacrificing style. With features such as ballistic-rated materials and shatter-resistant lenses, Jackal sunglasses meet the rigorous standards set by ANSI Z87.1 and MIL-PRF 32423-A for ballistic impact. Plus, anti-scratch and smudge-resistant coatings enhance durability and maintain clarity, while the lightweight and flexible design ensures comfort during prolonged use. The inclusion of polarized lenses also helps to reduce glare, making them suitable for varied lighting conditions that we often face on the range, where targets and lighting can vary dramatically.

Vortex Jackal sunglasses, on the other hand, emphasize lightweight comfort without compromising safety. It shares many features with the Banshee, such as ANSI Z87.1+ safety ratings and MIL-PRF compliance for ballistic impact, but these sunglasses are designed with a slightly different fit to cater to different preferences and face shapes. Similar to the Banshee, it also features non-slip bridges and temples, which are a great feature keeping them secure and from slipping.

Vortex Jackal sunglasses
Vortex Jackal sunglasses with black frames and smoke lenses (MSRP: $129.99).

 

Both the Banshee and Jackal models sport lenses with 100 percent UV protection and anti-reflective properties. The protective cases and microfiber cloths included with each pair add value. In addition, the Vortex VIP warranty that accompanies both models is a testament to their durability, along with the company’s confidence in its products.

For long days on the range, the right eyewear is about more than just vision—it’s about safety, comfort and maintaining peak performance throughout a match. The Banshee and Jackal models from Vortex Optics offer all of these aspects, and are backed by the company's reputation for high-quality, durable products designed for the outdoors. Whether you're a competitive shooter or an outdoor enthusiast, these glasses provide the protection and performance while maintaining style off the range as well.

MSRP for Vortex Optics Banshee and Jackal sunglasses is $129.99. You can check them out for yourself at vortexoptics.com.

Article from the May/June 2024 issue of USPSA’s magazine.

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