After reviewing the Wiley X WX Apex not long ago, I had the opportunity to try out another one of their offerings – the WX Axe with Captivate Polarized Tungsten Mirror Lenses in a Matte Black Frame. I’ve been running these glasses for about a month now, using them primarily for driving and general outdoor activities, with one dedicated range session thrown in for good measure. Let’s break down how they performed.
Wiley X Coverage on AllOutdoor
- AllOutdoor Review – Wiley X WX Founder Men’s Safety Sunglasses
- AllOutdoor Review – Wiley X WX Recon Men’s Safety Sunglasses
- Lightweight, Comfort at Hand – NEW Wiley X WX Sierra Sunglasses
- AO Review: Wiley X WX Trek Sunglasses w/ Captivate
Polarized Grey - Wiley X Unveils the WX JAKL Ballistic-Rated Frame the WX Tactical Series
- AO Review: Wiley X WX JAKL Shooting Glasses – My Personal Experience
Specifications: WX Axe Shooting Glasses
Before diving into my personal experience, here’s what you need to know about the WX Axe:
- Frame: Matte Black Triloid Nylon (described as “the toughest non-metal material available”)
- Lenses: Shatterproof Selenite Polycarbonate with Captivate Polarized Tungsten Mirror coating
- Safety Rating: ANSI Z87.1+ certified for high mass/high velocity impact protection
- Features: Removable side shields included, 100% UVA/UVB protection
- Fit: Small to Medium head sizes
- Dimensions: 56mm lens width, 40mm lens height, 17mm bridge size, 137mm temple length
- MSRP: $216.00
At $216, these glasses aren’t cheap by any standard. It’s definitely a significant investment for eye protection. However, when you consider they’re effectively two products in one – high-quality sunglasses and certified protective eyewear – the value proposition becomes clearer.
Would I prefer if they were more affordable? Absolutely. But I can’t say they’re overpriced for what they deliver. The optical clarity, build quality, and versatility justify the premium price tag to a large extent.
“With its combination of cutting-edge technology and modern design, the WX Axe is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their style while prioritizing comfort and performance. The ultralightweight, yet durable frame is equipped with impact-resistant lenses and stainless-steel temples. Additionally, the dual-injected rubber nose pads and temple tips provide optimal grip and stability even during high-intensity activities. Removeable and permanent side shields guarantee ANSI Z87.1+ protection when necessary.”
First Impressions: WX Axe Shooting Glasses
The WX Axe comes with the glasses themselves, a pair of ANSI Z87.1+ certified removable side shields, and a microfiber drawstring bag for storage. It’s the same package contents as the Apex I reviewed previously, which makes sense for consistency across their product line.
Style-wise, I’m a big fan of the WX Axe’s square lens design. Unlike more tactical-looking shooting glasses that wrap around and have that overly sporty appearance, these look more like regular sunglasses while still offering proper eye protection. They have a casual, everyday aesthetic that won’t make you look like you just stepped off the range if you wear them around town.
The matte black finish gives them a clean, understated look, though I did notice they also offer a green mirror lens with crystal grey frame option that wasn’t available when I selected my test pair – that would have been my first choice if available.
Performance: WX Axe Shooting Glasses
The standout feature of the WX Axe has to be the clarity of the Captivate Polarized Tungsten Mirror lenses. Even a friend who tried them at the range immediately commented on how clear they were. The polarization works exceptionally well in bright conditions, cutting glare without darkening your vision too much.
I found them to perform very well even in mixed lighting conditions. When moving from bright sunlight into more shaded areas under a canopy, I could still see clearly without having to remove them. The only time I felt the need to take them off was when shooting at 100 yards with iron sights – but that’s more a reflection of my aging eyes than any deficiency in the glasses.
The Captivate technology does seem to make everything look clearer, though I’m not sure I could specifically point to enhanced contrast as the reason. Things just looked sharper and more defined when wearing them.
Comfort and Fit: WX Axe Shooting Glasses
This is where the WX Axe significantly outperforms the Apex I previously reviewed. Unlike the Apex’s taller lenses that would rest on my cheeks (and my buddy’s cheeks when he tried them), the Axe’s 40mm lens height is perfect. They sit comfortably on my face without making contact with my cheeks, which makes a huge difference for all-day wear.
The dual-injected rubber temple tips do an excellent job keeping the glasses securely in place, even during more dynamic shooting positions and movements. That said, the rubber ends are a bit harder than I’d prefer, especially when paired with a ball cap or ear protection. It’s not immediately noticeable, but after extended wear, you do start to feel some pressure points.
Range Performance: WX Axe Shooting Glasses
I took the WX Axe out for a dedicated range session, and they performed admirably. The polarization was effective on a sunny spring Minnesota day, cutting glare without compromising target visibility. While I didn’t use the included side shields during testing, I appreciate their inclusion for those situations where you might want additional protection from brass, debris, or wind. It’s a thoughtful feature that adds versatility to these glasses.
Compatibility with ear protection was good overall, though as mentioned, the harder rubber temple tips do create some pressure points after extended wear when sandwiched between your ears and earmuffs. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but something worth noting.
Versatility is where the WX Axe really shines. They’re genuinely effective both as dedicated shooting glasses and as everyday sunglasses. You don’t have to choose between protection and style – these deliver both. The Axe bridges the gap between tactical eyewear and casual sunglasses better than most offerings I’ve tried. They have legitimate ANSI Z87.1+ protection wrapped in a package that doesn’t scream “tactical.” You could wear these driving, hiking, at the range, or just running errands, and they’d be equally at home in all those environments.
While I haven’t subjected them to any formal durability testing, the WX Axe feels solidly built. The frame materials inspire confidence, though they perhaps don’t feel quite as tank-like as the Apex with its thicker sides.
I haven’t experienced any issues with scratching on the lenses or frame during my testing period, despite several trips in and out of various cases, bags, and vehicle storage compartments.
Final Thoughts: WX Axe Shooting Glasses
The Wiley X WX Axe represents a successful fusion of protective eyewear and everyday sunglasses. If you’re looking for glasses that can transition seamlessly from the range to daily activities without compromising on either protection or style, these are worth serious consideration. The exceptional clarity of the lenses, comfortable fit (minus the slightly hard temple tips), and versatile style make them suitable for the “everyman” who wants one pair of quality sunglasses that can do it all. They’re particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the square lens aesthetic and want ANSI-rated protection without the typical tactical look.
If I could change anything, I’d like to see more lens color options, some adjustability features, and softer padding on those temple tips. But these are relatively minor quibbles with what is overall an excellent pair of glasses. Are they worth the $216 price tag? If you’re looking for a premium do-it-all pair of protective glasses/sunglasses and can afford it, I’d say yes. Just don’t expect them to perform miracles in extremely low-light conditions – they are sunglasses, after all.
In closing, I want to say thank you to Wiley X for allowing AllOutdoor and myself the opportunity to try out their WX Axe glasses. That is greatly appreciated. Also, we would like to know what all of you guys and gals think. Do you believe that these premium shooting glasses are worth spending your hard-earned money on? Would you take them to the range? Let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback.
The post AllOutdoor Review: Wiley X WX Axe Shooting Glasses appeared first on AllOutdoor.com.
