Three different types of contrast sensitivity chart were used on normal patients by six optometrists in clinical practice. The charts were the Vistech, the Pelli-Robson and the Cambridge low-contrast gratings test. We examine the data in terms of the differences between optometrists and the variation of contrast sensitivity with the age of the patient. There was a highly significant difference between the scores from different optometrists for all three charts. We attribute this to variability in measurement technique. There was also a highly significant effect of age for all three charts, with older observers tending to exhibit lower contrast sensitivity. On the Vistech chart, this sensitivity deficit was most pronounced at higher spatial frequencies. The level of redundant information in the tests is discussed.