Former Navy SEAL Perry Yee Tests Out the All-New GATORZ Eyewear Blastshield
For this review, we called in the expert.
A close friend of the company, Perry Yee’s background speaks for itself. Whether you want to consider his six years served on active duty, his time spent with SEAL Team 7, his combat experience supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, or his post-military efforts in assisting civilians with personal protection planning, tactics, and responsible firearms training, Perry knows his stuff and isn’t afraid to share his knowledge.
Now heading his own non-profit ACTIVE VALOR, which pairs veterans with the children of our nation’s fallen heroes for mission-based adventures, he recently took time away from packed schedule to hit the I-8 on route to GATORZ HQ in Yuma, Arizona. Tasked with putting the all-new Blastshield to work at the range, he was kind enough to let us hit him with questions about the brand’s most innovative ballistic shades yet.
Q. GATORZ has pointed out that these are the thinnest frames they've engineered yet. Did you notice anything different in terms of the fit and adjustability levels? Would you feel confident wearing these with a helmet or other protective gear?
A. The Blastshield temples are the first of their kind. Right off the bat, there are noticeable differences from any other pair of GATORZ. Personally, the fit was perfect from the start without having to adjust them at all. They offer a tighter fit than other pairs, and they give you a more secure feeling. With how thin the temples are, they are comfortable under both helmets and over-the-ear protection, which is great for extended periods of use.
Q. As for the interchangeable lenses, did you feel like you could swap them out efficiently to operate in changing conditions or environments?
A. The interchangeable lenses are simple and easy to swap out. What makes them stand apart from other glasses with interchangeable lenses is the fact that the frame and nosepiece are all connected. Basically, you don’t have to remove the nosepiece to replace the lenses. This makes it way more efficient when trying to operate them in any condition, whether good or bad, or whether you’re wearing gloves or not. Having the nosepiece attached to the frame means there are no other pieces that you may lose, drop or fumble with when you’re in less than fair conditions attempting to swap lenses.
Q. These shades cater to servicemembers, shooters, and hunters. Is there one grouping that you think would benefit most from utilizing the Blastshield?
A. The Blastshield was built for a wide range of users. I don’t believe that one would benefit more or less than the other. Having the capability to carry one pair of glasses with multiple lenses gives any user the opportunity to be well prepared for any situation and environment. With the amount of lens options available, it truly covers having the right lens for any training or duty environment.
Q. From a durability standpoint, how do you think these shades will hold up over time with regular use?
A. The durability of the Blastshield is on par with every other pair of glasses GATORZ offers, which is excellent. Built with the same high-quality materials, and with the same attention to detail, there is no question that the Blastshield will hold up over long periods of time and over any rugged use.
Q. Is there anything that surprised you about the Blastshield?
A. Personally, I think the biggest surprise was the weight. Visually, you can see how much thinner and how much less material there is with the frame, but as you’re wearing them, it’s easy to forget that you’re wearing them over long periods of time. Which is great for long days of training out on the ranges, or all-day hunts, or any type of activity. Just another benefit to add to the list.
Q. How did you like the center mount? Did you feel that it made a major difference in visual acuity?
A. The combination of the center mount, slim frame and wider lens provides a better field of view and more protection than most shooting glasses out there. A wider field of view and more visibility means better performance and better precision.
Q. Would you recommend the Blastshield to someone in the market for a new pair of ballistic eyewear?
A. The Blastshield temples are the first of their kind. Right off the bat, there are noticeable differences from any other pair of GATORZ. Personally, the fit was perfect from the start without having to adjust them at all. They offer a tighter fit than other pairs, and they give you a more secure feeling. With how thin the temples are, they are comfortable under both helmets and over-the-ear protection, which is great for extended periods of use.
Ready to Experience the BLASTSHIELD for yourself?