As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours in the field and at the range, testing gear in all sorts of conditions. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of a good pair of shooting gloves. They’re not just an accessory; they’re an essential piece of equipment that can significantly impact your performance and comfort in the field.
Why Invest in Shooting Gloves?
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking – “Joel, do I really need special gloves just for shooting?” I used to be skeptical too. But after one particularly miserable duck hunt where my bare hands went numb from the cold, struggling to operate my shotgun, I became a true believer in the power of proper hand protection.
Quality shooting gloves offer a multitude of benefits that can enhance your hunting experience:
Protection from the Elements: Whether you’re dealing with icy winds or scorching heat, shooting gloves provide a barrier between your skin and the environment. This protection allows you to stay focused on the hunt rather than worrying about numb fingers or burned palms.
Improved Grip and Control: Many shooting gloves feature textured palms or specialized grip materials. This can be a game-changer when handling a firearm in wet or sweaty conditions. A secure grip means better control and potentially improved accuracy.
Recoil Reduction: Some gloves offer padding in key areas, which can help absorb and distribute the force of recoil. This is especially beneficial for those using larger calibers or during high-volume shooting sessions.
Injury Prevention: From cuts and scrapes while moving through rough terrain to potential burns from hot barrels or suppressors, shooting gloves provide a layer of protection against various hazards you might encounter in the field.
Touchscreen Compatibility: In our increasingly digital world, many modern shooting gloves offer touchscreen-compatible fingertips. This allows you to use your smartphone, GPS device, or other electronics without removing your gloves – a real convenience in cold weather.
Durability for Demanding Tasks: Hunting often involves more than just shooting. Whether you’re setting up blinds, field dressing game, or hauling gear, a good pair of shooting gloves can stand up to these demanding tasks better than your bare hands.
Top Shooting Gloves for 2024
After extensive testing and real-world use, I’ve compiled a list of what I consider to be the best shooting gloves available for hunters in 2024. Each pair offers a unique set of features to suit different needs and preferences.
1. PIG Full Dexterity Tactical (FDT) Alpha Gloves
The PIG FDT Alpha Gloves have been my go-to choice for the past couple of seasons, and for good reason. These gloves strike an impressive balance between protection and dexterity, making them suitable for a wide range of hunting scenarios.
The standout feature of the Alpha gloves is their single-layer palm design. This thin yet durable material provides exceptional feel on the trigger, allowing for precise shot control. The synthetic suede used in the palm construction offers a tacky grip that performs well even in wet conditions – a feature I’ve come to appreciate during those early morning hunts when dew is heavy on the grass.
One of my favorite aspects of these gloves is the isolated trigger finger material. It’s incredibly thin, allowing you to easily feel pressure changes as you squeeze off a shot. This level of sensitivity is crucial for clean, consistent trigger pulls, especially when using lighter trigger weights on precision rifles.
The knuckle area features padding that adds protection without unnecessary bulk. This has saved my hands more than once when pushing through dense brush or scrambling over rocky terrain. Despite this padding, the gloves remain flexible and don’t restrict movement.
- ENHANCED DEXTERITY AND CONTROL: The PIG FDT Alpha full dexterity tactical gloves offer unmatched gun-handling dexterity with a single-layer multi-piece palm design, ensuring only one layer of material contacts your shooting grip for superior control.
- TOUCH SCREEN COMPATIBILITY: Stay connected with ease with these touchscreen tactical gloves. Conductive synthetic suede on the index finger and thumb provides reliable touch screen functionality without sacrificing tactile sensitivity, perfect for all your devices.
Another modern touch I appreciate is the touchscreen-compatible thumb and index finger. This feature has proven invaluable when I need to check my hunting apps, respond to a text, or adjust my GPS settings without exposing my hands to the cold.
It’s worth noting that these gloves tend to run a bit small. I typically wear a large in most gloves, but I found the XL in the PIG FDT Alpha to be a better fit. The snug fit contributes to the gloves’ excellent dexterity, but it can make them a bit challenging to put on or take off quickly.
Pros:
– Outstanding dexterity for precise shooting
– Comfortable for all-day wear
– Durable construction that holds up to field use
– Excellent grip in various conditions
– Touchscreen compatibility
Cons:
– Higher price point compared to some options
– Can be difficult to don and doff quickly
– Sizing runs small
2. Mechanix Wear FastFit Gloves
For hunters on a budget or those looking for a reliable backup pair, the Mechanix Wear FastFit gloves are hard to beat. I always keep a pair of these in my truck, and they’ve saved my bacon more than once when I’ve forgotten my primary gloves at home.
The FastFit gloves are constructed with a stretchy material that provides a snug, almost second-skin fit. This design allows for excellent dexterity, which is crucial when manipulating firearms or handling small items like individual rounds while reloading.
The palm is made from synthetic leather, offering a decent grip on your firearm. While it may not provide the same level of tackiness as some higher-end options, I’ve found it more than adequate for most hunting situations. The material is also quite durable, standing up well to the wear and tear of regular use.
- MADE FOR WORKING HANDS – Rugged .6mm synthetic leather gloves for hard-working individuals. Great as safety work gloves, mechanic gloves, home improvement gloves, and everything in between
- TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES – The perfect blend of dexterity and durability with touch-screen capabilities, these working gloves can be used for smart phones, tablets, and computers for easy use at the jobsite or in the garage
One of the standout features of the FastFit gloves is their elastic cuff. This design makes them incredibly easy to slip on and off quickly – a feature you’ll appreciate when you need to suddenly adjust something with your bare hands or when the temperature changes rapidly.
It’s important to note that these gloves aren’t the warmest option out there. They work well for mild weather hunts or as a liner under heavier gloves in colder conditions. However, for extreme cold weather hunting, you’ll want to look at more insulated options.
A big plus for the FastFit gloves is that they’re machine washable. After a long, messy day in the field, being able to toss your gloves in with the rest of your hunting clothes is a real convenience.
Pros:
– Very affordable price point
– Comfortable, stretchy fit that allows for good dexterity
– Easy to quickly put on and take off
– Machine washable for easy care
– Versatile for use beyond just shooting
Cons:
– Limited insulation for cold weather use
– Not as durable as some higher-end options
– Less grip than tacky-palmed alternatives
3. Sitka Gunner Gloves
When the mercury really drops, you need a glove that can stand up to the cold while still allowing you to effectively operate your firearm. The Sitka Gunner gloves have become my go-to choice for late-season hunts in frigid conditions.
I put these gloves to the test during a brutal late-season elk hunt last year, and they performed admirably. The outer layer is constructed from water-resistant goatskin leather, which does an excellent job of shedding moisture. This is crucial when you’re dealing with snow or freezing rain, as wet gloves quickly lead to cold hands.
Underneath the leather exterior, Sitka has incorporated a Gore-Tex Windstopper lining. This material is a game-changer in cold, windy conditions. It effectively blocks the wind from penetrating the glove, helping to maintain warmth without adding significant bulk.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the extra padding on the palm and thumb. This additional cushioning does wonders for reducing felt recoil, especially when shooting larger calibers. During that elk hunt, I was using my .300 Win Mag, and the Gunner gloves noticeably dampened the recoil compared to lighter gloves I’ve used in the past.
Sitka has also incorporated a pre-curved finger design into these gloves. This ergonomic shaping helps maintain dexterity despite the added insulation. While you won’t have the same fine motor control as with ultralight gloves, I found I could still easily operate my rifle’s safety, bolt, and trigger without issue.
The gloves secure with a velcro strap at the wrist, allowing for a customizable fit. This feature also helps to seal out cold air and prevent snow from entering the glove.
It’s worth noting that these gloves are not touchscreen compatible. In very cold conditions, this isn’t typically an issue for me as I try to minimize exposure to the elements. However, it’s something to consider if you frequently need to use electronic devices during your hunts.
Pros:
– Excellent performance in cold weather conditions
– Durable leather construction that stands up to field use
– Good recoil absorption for comfortable shooting
– Water-resistant exterior keeps hands dry
– Windproof lining for added warmth
Cons:
– Bulkier design can impact precision for some shooting tasks
– Not touchscreen compatible
– May be too warm for use in milder conditions
4. Magpul Technical Gloves 2.0
The Magpul Technical Gloves 2.0 have earned a spot in my gear bag thanks to their excellent balance of protection, dexterity, and comfort. These gloves are a great all-around option that perform well in a variety of hunting scenarios.
The palm of the glove is constructed from synthetic suede, which provides a solid grip on your firearm without compromising feel. I’ve found this material to offer a good balance – tacky enough to maintain control in damp conditions, but not so sticky that it interferes with smooth gun handling.
One of my favorite features of these gloves is the stretchy back material. This fabric allows for full range of motion in your hands and fingers, which is crucial for maintaining dexterity while shooting. Whether you’re working a bolt action, manipulating a safety, or reloading, the flexibility of these gloves doesn’t hold you back.
Magpul has incorporated some thoughtful details into the design of these gloves. For instance, there’s a terrycloth panel on the thumb that serves as a nose wipe. It might seem like a small thing, but on those chilly mornings in the deer stand, it’s a feature you’ll appreciate having.
Durability is always a concern with shooting gloves, and Magpul has addressed this by reinforcing the index finger and thumb. These high-wear areas often see the most abuse, so the added material helps extend the life of the gloves.
- Functional and comfortable
- Lightweight, durable and won’t compromise dexterity
- High-abrasion synthetic suede palm for durability and better grip
The Technical Gloves 2.0 are touchscreen compatible, allowing you to use your smartphone or other devices without removing the gloves. In my experience, this feature works reliably, which is not always the case with some “touchscreen-compatible” gloves.
It’s worth noting that these gloves tend to run slightly small. I typically wear a large, but found the XL to be a better fit in this model. The snug fit contributes to the gloves’ excellent dexterity, but it can make them a bit challenging to remove, especially if your hands are sweaty or the gloves are wet.
Pros:
– Great all-around performance for various hunting scenarios
– Touchscreen compatible for easy use of electronic devices
– Reinforced in key wear areas for improved durability
– Excellent dexterity for a full-fingered glove
– Comfortable for all-day wear
Cons:
– Sizing runs small, may need to order a size up
– Can be difficult to remove when wet
– Less insulation than some options, may not be ideal for very cold conditions
5. Mechanix M-Pact Tactical Gloves
For hunters who also enjoy some tactical shooting or those who prioritize hand protection, the Mechanix M-Pact Tactical Gloves offer serious defense against impacts and abrasions. While they might be overkill for some hunting scenarios, I’ve found them invaluable during certain high-intensity situations.
The standout feature of the M-Pact gloves is the thermoplastic rubber (TPR) knuckle guard. This robust protection has saved my hands more than once while scrambling through thick brush or navigating rocky terrain. If you hunt in areas with dense vegetation or do any climbing to reach your hunting spots, you’ll appreciate this added protection.
In the palm, Mechanix has incorporated D3O padding. This material is soft and flexible under normal conditions but stiffens upon impact. The result is impressive absorption of recoil and vibration. When running drills with my AR or during high-volume shooting sessions with my shotgun, these gloves significantly reduce hand fatigue.
The fingertips feature touchscreen-compatible material, allowing you to use your devices without removing the gloves. However, due to the thicker construction, the sensitivity isn’t quite as good as some lighter options.
It’s worth noting that these gloves are bulkier than many other shooting gloves. While this bulk provides excellent protection, it does come at the cost of some dexterity. I find these gloves a bit too thick for precision rifle work, where feeling the trigger is crucial. However, for running and gunning with an AR or shotgun, they perform admirably.
- MADE FOR WORKING HANDS – Rugged .8mm synthetic leather gloves for hard-working individuals. Great as tactical gloves, safety work gloves, hunting gloves, or home improvement gloves to provide protection in any environment
- TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES – The perfect blend of dexterity and durability, these can be used for smart phones, tablets, and any capacitive touch-screen devices on patrol or in the field
One feature I particularly appreciate is that these gloves are machine washable. After a day of hard use in the field, being able to toss them in the wash with the rest of your gear is a real convenience.
The M-Pact gloves are available in multiple colors, allowing you to match them to your preferred camouflage pattern or other gear. While this might seem like a minor point, having gear that blends well can be important, especially for hunters who need to remain concealed.
Pros:
– Outstanding impact and abrasion protection
– Excellent recoil and vibration absorption
– Machine washable for easy care
– Available in multiple colors to match various gear setups
– Touchscreen compatible
Cons:
– Reduced dexterity compared to lighter glove options
– May be too bulky for precision shooting tasks
– Overkill for many standard hunting scenarios
Choosing the Right Shooting Gloves
Selecting the perfect pair of shooting gloves is a personal process that depends on various factors. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when making your choice:
Fit: Proper fit is absolutely crucial when it comes to shooting gloves. Gloves that are too loose will compromise your dexterity and potentially your safety, while gloves that are too tight can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort during long hunting sessions. Most manufacturers offer detailed sizing charts – take the time to measure your hand carefully and choose accordingly. Remember, some brands may run large or small, so reading user reviews can provide valuable insights.
Material: The material of your gloves will greatly impact their performance and durability. Leather offers excellent protection and often improves with age, but can be less breathable and may require more care. Synthetic materials like spandex or nylon provide flexibility and comfort, often at a lower price point, but may wear out faster. Many modern gloves use a combination of materials to balance performance. Consider the conditions you’ll be hunting in and choose materials accordingly.
Insulation: The amount of insulation you need depends largely on when and where you’ll be hunting. Lightweight, breathable gloves work well for early season or warm weather hunts. For late season or cold weather hunting, look for gloves with additional insulation. Some hunters prefer to use a thin liner glove for dexterity, paired with a heavier outer glove for warmth that can be removed when shooting.
Intended Use: Consider what type of firearms you’ll primarily be using. Different guns benefit from different glove features. For precision rifle work, you’ll want gloves with excellent trigger finger sensitivity. For shotgun sports or high-volume shooting, recoil absorption might be a priority. If you’re a bowhunter, you’ll need gloves that don’t interfere with your release.
Additional Features: Think about what extra features matter most to you. Do you frequently use your phone or GPS while hunting? Look for touchscreen compatibility. Hunting in wet conditions? Water resistance might be crucial. Some gloves offer reinforced palms for durability, others have wrist closures for a secure fit. Prioritize the features that align with your specific needs.
Durability: Quality shooting gloves are an investment, and you’ll want them to last. Look for reinforced stitching in high-wear areas like between the thumb and forefinger. Double-layered palms can also extend the life of your gloves. Remember, even the most durable gloves will eventually wear out with heavy use, so consider them a consumable item that will need periodic replacement.
Price: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that your shooting gloves play a crucial role in your hunting success and comfort. Investing in a quality pair can enhance your performance and enjoyment in the field. That said, the most expensive gloves aren’t always the best for your needs. Consider your budget, but also factor in how frequently you’ll be using the gloves and in what conditions.
Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands known for producing quality hunting and shooting gear. Companies like PIG, Mechanix Wear, Sitka, and Magpul have established track records and typically offer solid warranty policies. Reading reviews from other hunters can also provide valuable insights into long-term durability and performance.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right pair of shooting gloves is more than just a matter of hand protection – it’s about enhancing your performance and enjoyment in the field. Whether you’re stalking elk in freezing temperatures, enjoying a fall afternoon in the deer stand, or spending a day at the range, the right gloves can make a significant difference.
Remember, even the best gloves require some break-in time and getting used to. Don’t wait until opening day to try out a new pair. Give them a test run at the range