You need 20/70 or better uncorrected, and 20/20 or better corrected. Anything worse than 20/70 is non-waiverable and requires an "exception to policy." When I got into pilot training, there were 3 exceptions granted in the entire USAF, and they go to USAFA graduates as far as I know. As an outsider, it would be a longshot.

Also, the needs of the AF drive a lot of this - when I got into pilot training, the AF perceived a pilot shortage, so it was easier to get in. Now, they're still trying to get rid of people, particularly Lieutanants. It's cyclical, so in another 3-4 years, they'll realize that they downsized too much and open the floodgates again.

As far as getting hired by a Reserve unit, I'd suggest talking to a recruiter. Essentially, you'll need to get hired by them, have them pay your way through Officer Training School (8 weeks?), Pilot Training (1 year), and aircraft specific follow on training (3-6 months).

If you're still interested, PM me and I'll send you my recruiter's phone number (I'm Active Duty and separating in May to go to the Reserves and CAL).

Riddler