Let’s Talk About Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit
The Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit promises comprehensive protection for shooters, combining hearing and eye safety in one convenient package. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, aims to bring professional-grade safety to the recreational shooter with this kit. For someone who spends a significant amount of time at the range, both for professional development and personal enjoyment, reliable protection is paramount.
I was looking for a simple, all-in-one solution that wouldn’t break the bank but would still offer adequate protection for both indoor and outdoor ranges. The allure of a complete kit, coupled with the Safariland reputation, drew me to this particular product. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the compact nature of the earmuffs and the lightweight feel of the eyewear.
Compared to standalone earplugs I’ve used in the past and bulkier, more expensive electronic earmuffs, this seemed like a good middle ground. Similarly, my existing safety glasses felt clunky and uncomfortable, so the promise of “HD Flex Protective Eyewear” was enticing. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about the durability of such a lightweight package, but I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit at my local indoor shooting range, a notoriously loud environment. The combination of the foam impulse hearing protection and the ultra-compact earmuffs provided a noticeable reduction in noise levels. The eyewear offered clear vision and didn’t fog up despite the enclosed space and my exertion.
I also used the kit at an outdoor range on a windy day. While the hearing protection performed adequately, the eyewear provided excellent protection from dust and debris. I found the earmuffs slightly less effective outdoors compared to indoors, but the foam inserts helped compensate.
The eyewear was comfortable and didn’t require much adjustment, but the earmuffs took some fiddling to get a secure and comfortable fit. One initial surprise was how well the foam earplugs allowed me to still hear range commands and conversations despite significantly reducing the volume of gunshots.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit has held up surprisingly well. The eyewear shows no noticeable scratches, and the earmuffs still fold compactly for storage. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to clean the eyewear.
The foam earplugs are, as expected, a consumable item, but they are readily replaceable. The earmuffs have maintained their shape and clamping force, showing no signs of wear or loosening. Compared to previous experiences with cheaper safety glasses that scratched easily and earmuffs that quickly lost their noise-canceling ability, this kit has been a pleasant surprise in terms of durability and value.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit
Specifications
- The Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit includes: Foam Impulse Hearing Protection, Ultra-Compact Earmuffs, and HD Flex Protective Eyewear. The Foam Impulse Hearing Protection is designed to instantly reduce dangerous sound levels.
- The Ultra-Compact Earmuffs offer an additional layer of hearing protection, particularly effective indoors. The HD Flex Protective Eyewear boasts anti-fog, scratch-resistant, HD polycarbonate lenses.
- The eyewear features adjustable temple angle and length for a customized fit. The Manufacturer is Safariland.
- The kit’s color is Black. The primary material is 6000 Series Machined Aircraft Aluminum.
- It contains one kit. The size is listed as Compact.
- The kit includes all three items (earplugs, earmuffs, and eyewear). It is designed for adults.
- The eyewear lens type is Scratch Resistant. The lenses are made of Polycarbonate.
- The kit is packaged in a Clam Pack/Plastic. The eyewear is Fogproof.
- The intended application is Shooting.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the kit’s effectiveness and usability. The aircraft aluminum construction suggests durability, while the polycarbonate lenses ensure clear vision and impact resistance. The adjustability of the eyewear ensures a comfortable fit for a variety of face shapes.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit performs its job admirably, providing a solid baseline of hearing and eye protection. The combination of earplugs and earmuffs offers significant noise reduction, crucial for preventing hearing damage during prolonged shooting sessions. The eyewear provides clear vision and protects against flying debris, enhancing safety and focus.
The strengths lie in its simplicity, completeness, and reasonable price point. The earmuffs could benefit from slightly thicker padding for enhanced comfort during extended use. Overall, the kit meets expectations for a basic range safety package, but more discerning users may look for more advanced (and expensive) electronic hearing protection.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit’s design prioritizes compactness and ease of use. The materials used are lightweight yet feel reasonably durable. The eyewear is particularly comfortable, thanks to its flexible frame and adjustable temples.
There is a slight learning curve to finding the optimal fit for the earmuffs, but once adjusted, they stay in place well. The overall user experience is positive, with no significant design flaws.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on several months of use, the Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit appears to be built to last. The eyewear’s scratch-resistant coating is effective, and the earmuffs show no signs of wear. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth.
Assuming reasonable care, this kit should provide several years of reliable service. However, the longevity of the foam earplugs will depend on individual usage frequency.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit comes as a complete package and doesn’t offer significant customization options. The earplugs are replaceable with similar foam or silicone options available from various brands. The eyewear is not designed for use with prescription glasses, so users requiring corrective lenses will need to consider alternatives.
Third-party accessories are limited, but the kit’s core components are sufficient for basic range safety needs. Upgrading to electronic earmuffs or prescription safety glasses would be the most common modifications for users seeking enhanced features or vision correction.
Pros and Cons of Safariland – TCI Impulse Range KitPros
- Complete Protection: Offers both hearing and eye protection in one convenient kit.
- Compact & Lightweight: Easy to store and carry, ideal for range bags.
- Affordable Price Point: Provides good value for money compared to individual purchases.
- Decent Noise Reduction: Effective at reducing gunshot noise levels.
- Comfortable Eyewear: Flexible frame and adjustable temples ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Cons
- Earmuff Comfort: Padding could be improved for extended use.
- Foam Earplug Replacement: Requires periodic replacement of the foam earplugs.
- Limited Customization: Few options for accessories or modifications.
Who Should Buy Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit?
Pros
- Complete Protection: Offers both hearing and eye protection in one convenient kit.
- Compact & Lightweight: Easy to store and carry, ideal for range bags.
- Affordable Price Point: Provides good value for money compared to individual purchases.
- Decent Noise Reduction: Effective at reducing gunshot noise levels.
- Comfortable Eyewear: Flexible frame and adjustable temples ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Cons
- Earmuff Comfort: Padding could be improved for extended use.
- Foam Earplug Replacement: Requires periodic replacement of the foam earplugs.
- Limited Customization: Few options for accessories or modifications.
The Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit is perfect for:
- Entry-level shooters looking for a complete and affordable safety solution.
- Casual range users who prioritize convenience and portability.
- Individuals who want a basic but reliable level of hearing and eye protection.
Who should skip this product?
- Professional shooters or competitive shooters requiring advanced features like electronic noise cancellation.
- Individuals needing prescription safety glasses.
- Those who prefer higher-end, more durable materials.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Consider purchasing extra foam earplugs.
- If you require prescription lenses, invest in prescription safety glasses.
Conclusion on Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit
The Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit provides a solid foundation for range safety at an accessible price. While it may not boast the advanced features of higher-end products, it delivers reliable hearing and eye protection in a compact and convenient package. The value proposition is strong, making it an excellent choice for entry-level shooters or casual range users.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone seeking a no-fuss, all-in-one safety solution for occasional range visits. Its simplicity and affordability make it a worthwhile investment for protecting your hearing and vision. If you’re looking for a basic but effective range safety kit, give the Safariland – TCI Impulse Range Kit a shot – your ears and eyes will thank you.