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Like hearing protection, good eye protection is necessary at the shooting range and in the field. Many great brands of quality eye protection exist in the market place but we should consider how these fit our younger shooting partners. In the safety conscious climate of the new millennium, we should take care with the eyes of the young shooters. Simply putting on whatever pair of eye protection device we have may not guarantee the safety of those important young eyes. Proper fit and comfort add safety and enjoyment to the young shooter's day. A simple fit check and test can accomplish this in the field or on the shooting range.
First, have the youngster try the eye protection by putting it on. Is the nose bridge too wide allowing the glasses to slide down the face? Are the temples too long to properly hold the glasses in place if the youngster looks down? Are the young shooters' eyes centered in the lens allowing for clear and complete field of view? If the answer to any of these questions is "NO," find eye protection that fits properly.
Next have the young shooter mount the gun to see if there is enough clearance between the glasses and the gun's stock. If the glasses are pushed or moved when the gun is mounted be sure that they are still in position to provide protection and a clear field of vision.
Many eye protection manufacturers now design eye protection with dimensions much better suite to a young shooter. Whatever type of eye protection you choose be sure it fits and provides real protection for the young eyes of your young shooting partner. Don't forget his eyes must last the rest of his life.
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