Shooting is a thrilling and exciting activity that requires proper gear to ensure safety. One of the essential pieces of gear that every shooter should have is hearing protection. Exposure to loud noises from firearms can cause permanent hearing damage, making it crucial to invest in the best hearing protection for shooting.
When it comes to hearing protection for shooting, there are two main types: earplugs and earmuffs. Earplugs are small and discreet, making them easy to carry around, while earmuffs provide more comprehensive protection and are suitable for prolonged use. When choosing hearing protection, it’s crucial to consider factors such as noise reduction rating (NRR), comfort, and durability.
There are so many superior products when it comes to hearing protection that you almost can’t go wrong. Think in terms of your use. If you’re shooting mostly range, you might be fine with earmuffs. If you’re going outside, it might be better to look at earbuds. Next, consider your budget, electronics are really nice, but for some, it’s not needed. Finally, review the features and options available. Make sure you understand what NRR is and that your choice meets your requirements. Finally, review the options below and make a selection. Again, you can hardly go wrong.
Best Hearing Protection for Shooting
We understand that shooting can be a thrilling and enjoyable experience, but it also poses a serious risk to your hearing. Exposure to loud noises can cause permanent hearing damage, so it’s important to protect your ears with the right gear. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best hearing protection options for shooting. Our top picks provide excellent noise reduction without compromising comfort or convenience. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect hearing protection for your needs.
Howard Leight by Honeywell Impact Pro Sound Amplification Electronic Earmuff
If you’re looking for high-quality shooting hearing protection, the Howard Leight by Honeywell Impact Pro Sound Amplification Electronic Earmuff is a great choice.
Pros
- Provides high noise reduction rating (30 NRR) for extremely loud shooting environments
- Amplifies ambient noise up to 4x for more natural listening and enhanced communication
- Automatically shuts off amplification when ambient sound reaches 82 dB to block out hazardous noise
Cons
- It may be too bulky for some users
- Not ideal for shooting rifles or shotguns
- Speakers may be too big to drive with a phone
The Howard Leight by Honeywell Impact Pro Sound Amplification Electronic Earmuff is designed for handgun and pistol shooters who want high NRR and comfortable, secure fit. Rubberized pressure points prevent gunstock scratching, while the super deluxe padded headband features telescopic height adjustment for a secure and comfortable fit.
The built-in directional microphones amplify range commands and other ambient sounds to a safe 82 dB, providing more natural listening and enhanced communication. The earmuff actively listens and automatically shuts off amplification when ambient sound reaches 82 dB, while passively blocking out noise at 30 dB.
This product also includes a 3.5mm connection cord for MP3 players and scanners, as well as 2 AAA batteries. The automatic shut-off feature engages after 4 hours to help save battery life, with approximately 350 hours of battery life.
Overall, the Howard Leight by Honeywell Impact Pro Sound Amplification Electronic Earmuff is a great choice for handgun and pistol shooters looking for high NRR and a comfortable, secure fit.
AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 Shooting Ear Protection Ear Buds
If you’re looking for an all-in-one product that combines electronic ear muffs, noise isolation headphones, and Bluetooth ear buds, AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds are a great option for shooting and hunting enthusiasts.
Pros
- Three-in-one product saves space and money
- Advanced technology lets you switch between hearing enhancement and protection mode to Bluetooth audio mode
- Comfortable ear hooks and rechargeable lithium battery provide long-lasting use
Cons
- Fit may not be ideal for everyone
- Wind noise may be picked up when using audio enhance mode in windy conditions
- Some users may prefer traditional ear muffs for shooting
AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds feature advanced technology that enhances noises up to 6 times your normal hearing while compressing sounds at 85 decibels or louder. With 5.0 Bluetooth for studio-quality audio and hands-free communication, these ear buds are perfect for loud environments like shooting ranges and construction sites.
The ear hooks are designed for comfort and to stay in place during use, and the rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 25 hours of run time or 120 hours of standby time. AXIL is a company that values innovation, and their products reflect that commitment to quality and design.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality product for shooting and hunting, AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 earbuds are definitely worth considering.
PROHEAR 016 Shooting Ear Protection Earmuffs 2 Pack
If you’re looking for affordable and reliable ear protection, the PROHEAR 016 Shooting Ear Protection Earmuffs 2 Pack might be a good choice.
Pros
- The sound dampening composite housing and foam provide maximum protection (NRR 26dB/SNR 31dB) to meet your requirements.
- The lightweight and thin design makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
- The adjustable headband can accommodate any size and shape of head.
Cons
- The ear cups may not fit over some types of glasses, causing discomfort.
- The ear pads may wear out quickly with frequent use.
- The noise reduction may not be enough for very loud environments.
These imported earmuffs are supported by certified protection of ANSI S3.19-1974 and CE EN 352-1, making them recommended for hunting, mowing, woodworking, aircraft, chainsaw, gardening, fireworks, and machining, as well as other noisy conditions. They are also covered by a 1-year warranty with ensured customer satisfaction.
The PROHEAR 016 Shooting Ear Protection Earmuffs 2 Pack is designed to be compact and portable. You can easily carry them everywhere due to their compact folding design, as well as store them in your own bag, luggage, ammo box, etc. The high-quality rubber paint on your earplugs will improve their durability and give you a greater sense of touch.
In conclusion, the PROHEAR 016 Shooting Ear Protection Earmuffs 2 Pack is a good option for those who need affordable and reliable ear protection for shooting and other noisy activities.
Pro For Sho 34dB Shooting Ear Protection
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality hearing protection for shooting, then you should check out the Pro For Sho 34dB Shooting Ear Protection.
Pros
- With a 34dB hearing protection ratio, these earmuffs can help silence your world “in a snap”.
- These ear muffs are solid and lightweight, specifically designed to address the limitations of conventional ear muffs.
- These ear muffs are compact and easily carried, perfect for carrying in bags without weight or bulk.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the ear muffs can be a little tight after wearing them for an extended period.
- A few customers have mentioned that the ear muffs are smaller than they expected.
- A handful of customers have reported quality issues with the product.
These ear muffs are designed to provide maximum hearing protection during shooting, hunting, woodworking, and study. They are industrial-grade ear muffs that can protect your hearing from loud noises and harmful sounds. The Pro For Sho 34dB Shooting Ear Protection comes in a standard size that fits young children through average adults, and a large size that fits average teens to large adults.
The ear muffs are made of high-quality materials that make them solid, lightweight, and compact. They are designed to address the limitations of conventional ear muffs, making them more comfortable to wear and easier to carry. The ear muffs are also foldable, making them easy to store and transport.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality hearing protection for shooting, then the Pro For Sho 34dB Shooting Ear Protection is definitely worth checking out. With its high hearing protection ratio, solid and lightweight design, and compact size, these ear muffs are perfect for anyone who wants to protect their hearing from loud noises and harmful sounds.
Walker’s FireMax Electronic Muffs
If you’re looking for reliable and comfortable hearing protection for shooting, Walker’s FireMax Electronic Muffs might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The earmuffs feature a low-profile design with comfortable cooling gel ear pads and rubber Tacti-Grip headband for all-day comfort.
- Digital audio circuits deliver superior clarity and balanced sound with full dynamic range HD speakers, and 2 omni-directional microphones enhance ambient sounds for improved awareness of your surroundings.
- The earmuffs offer impressive 23dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) with sound-activated compression that blocks out harmful sounds.
Cons
- The earmuffs might not fit all head sizes comfortably.
- The sound-activated compression might not work as expected in very noisy environments.
- The earmuffs might be too expensive for some users.
These earmuffs are designed to provide maximum protection without weighing you down or interfering with the butt of your gun. The digital soft-touch buttons make for easy volume and activation control, and a 3.5mm audio jack readily accepts a variety of audio input devices, such as radio comms and MP3 players for enhanced convenience.
The earmuffs are powered by an internal rechargeable 2000mAH battery, which boasts a lasting 200-hour battery life with 4 frequency modes for optimal performance in the field. The earmuffs also come with a compact folding design and sound dampening composite housing.
Overall, if you’re looking for high-quality and comfortable hearing protection for shooting, Walker’s FireMax Electronic Muffs might be worth considering.
Peltor Sport Tactical 500
If you’re looking for hearing protection while shooting, we recommend the Peltor Sport Tactical 500.
Pros
- The NRR 26 dB noise reduction rating is great for both indoor and outdoor shooters and hunters.
- Bluetooth wireless technology lets you stream music and make calls while still protecting your hearing.
- The dynamic suppression time measures the energy in gunshot noise and automatically sets suppression time for reduced echoes and increased comfort.
Cons
- The Peltor Sport Tactical 500 runs on AA batteries (not included) or Alpha 1100 lithium ion rechargeable battery (sold separately).
- It might take some time to get used to the clear voice tracking feature that seeks voice within background noise and actively filters noise for improved speech intelligibility.
- The recessed microphones might not be as durable as expected.
The Peltor Sport Tactical 500 is a great choice for anyone who wants to protect their hearing while shooting. The NRR 26 dB noise reduction rating is ideal for both indoor and outdoor shooters and hunters. Plus, the Bluetooth wireless technology lets you stream music and make calls while still protecting your hearing.
One of the best features of the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 is the dynamic suppression time. It measures the energy in gunshot noise and automatically sets suppression time for reduced echoes and increased comfort. This means you can shoot comfortably for longer periods of time without worrying about damaging your hearing.
However, there are a few downsides to the Peltor Sport Tactical 500. It runs on AA batteries (not included) or Alpha 1100 lithium ion rechargeable battery (sold separately), which might be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, the clear voice tracking feature might take some time to get used to. And while the recessed microphones are designed to prevent damage and reduce wind noise, they might not be as durable as expected.
Overall, the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 is a great choice for anyone who wants to protect their hearing while shooting. With its Bluetooth wireless technology and dynamic suppression time, it’s a great investment for any shooter.
ACT FIRE Ear Protection Hearing Protection for Shooting Gun Range Shooting Earmuffs Elite Black
If you are looking for an affordable and stylish shooting earmuffs that offer good noise reduction and stereo sound, then ACT FIRE Ear Protection is a great choice.
Pros
- The design is cool-looking and the paint is imported from Japan, which provides better protection and prevents damage to the surface.
- The volume control button is designed vertically, making it more convenient for users to adjust the amplification effect according to their needs.
- The earmuffs are fully sealed by modeled without flue, which provides better noise reduction.
Cons
- The sound quality is not as good as premium music earmuffs, but compared with other electronic shooting earmuffs, these earmuffs are much better.
- The earmuffs can be a bit tight, which may cause discomfort after prolonged use.
- The right side may stop working after a few weeks of use.
ACT FIRE Ear Protection is a great product for anyone looking for reliable and effective hearing protection when shooting at a gun range. The earmuffs are designed with stereo sound, which provides a realistic and clear sound that can also identify the location of the sound. The paint is imported from Japan, which provides better protection and prevents damage to the surface. The volume control button is designed vertically, making it more convenient for users to adjust the amplification effect according to their needs. The earmuffs are fully sealed by modeled without flue, which provides better noise reduction.
However, the sound quality is not as good as premium music earmuffs, but compared with other electronic shooting earmuffs, these earmuffs are much better. The earmuffs can be a bit tight, which may cause discomfort after prolonged use. The right side may stop working after a few weeks of use. Overall, ACT FIRE Ear Protection is a great product for anyone looking for affordable and stylish shooting earmuffs that offer good noise reduction and stereo sound.
Caldwell E-MAX Shadows 23 NRR
If you’re looking for electronic hearing protection with Bluetooth connectivity for shooting, hunting, and range, then Caldwell E-MAX Shadows 23 NRR is a great option.
Pros
- The earplugs provide high-quality stereo sound while confidently protecting your hearing with 23 Decibels NRR (Noise Reduction Rating).
- With 6 sizes of comfortable foam tips, you’ll find a custom fit for your ear to ensure proper noise cancellation and hearing protection.
- The earplugs continuously suppress sound to a safe level without clipping. Easily connect to your mobile device with Bluetooth so you can seamlessly transition between listening to media and shooting.
Cons
- It’s hard to tell where voices are coming from, but you can hear commands.
- The amplification isn’t perfect, so don’t expect it to be.
- The battery life could be better.
Caldwell E-MAX Shadows earplugs are a great choice for anyone looking for hearing protection while staying connected to their surroundings. The earplugs are comfortable and provide high-quality stereo sound while protecting your hearing with 23 Decibels NRR. The earplugs have six sizes of comfortable foam tips, ensuring a custom fit for your ear to ensure proper noise cancellation and hearing protection.
The earplugs continuously suppress sound to a safe level without clipping, making it easy to connect to your mobile device with Bluetooth so you can seamlessly transition between listening to media and shooting. However, it’s hard to tell where voices are coming from, but you can still hear commands. The amplification isn’t perfect, so don’t expect it to be. The battery life could be better, but the included case duals as a charger and storage compartment, making it convenient to use.
Overall, Caldwell E-MAX Shadows earplugs are a great option for anyone looking for electronic hearing protection with Bluetooth connectivity for shooting, hunting, and range.
ucho 34dB Slim Noise Shooting Ear Protection
If you’re looking for affordable and slim noise-cancelling ear protection for shooting, the ucho 34dB Slim Noise Shooting Ear Protection is a great option.
Pros
- The ear muffs have a high NRR SOUND TECHNOLOGY of 34dB, which is the highest shooting hearing protection ratio, helping to silence your world in a snap.
- The adjustable headband design is retractable and made of stainless steel, making it easy to adjust to various sizes for all-day comfort.
- The ear muffs are lightweight and easy to store, making them convenient to carry in your suitcase, backpack, ammo box, drawer, or wherever you keep your ear protection headphones.
Cons
- The ear muffs may fit tighter over the head than expected, which can feel annoying after a few minutes of use.
- The ear muffs may be on the small side, making them more suitable for people with smaller head sizes.
- The ear muffs may not be as durable as some other shooting ear protection options.
The ucho 34dB Slim Noise Shooting Ear Protection is a great deal for both indoor and outdoor shooters and hunters, as well as anyone who needs to protect their hearing while operating machinery, reading, studying, or attending concerts. The ear muffs are designed to provide maximum hearing protection while still being comfortable to wear for extended periods.
In terms of performance, the ear muffs do a great job of blocking out loud noises while still allowing you to hear conversations and other important sounds. The adjustable headband design is also a nice touch, as it allows you to customize the fit to your specific head size.
Overall, if you’re in the market for affordable and slim noise-cancelling ear protection for shooting, the ucho 34dB Slim Noise Shooting Ear Protection is definitely worth considering.
Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs
If you’re looking for comfortable and effective earplugs for shooting, traveling, or loud concerts, the Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs might be a great option for you.
Pros
- The custom molding system allows for a perfect fit that won’t hurt or fall out.
- The earplugs have a high noise reduction rating (31dB).
- The product comes with multiple tips and a carrying pouch.
Cons
- Some users have reported discomfort after wearing the earplugs for extended periods of time.
- The molding process can be difficult to get right on the first try.
- The earplugs may not be suitable for those with very small ear canals.
The Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs are a great choice for anyone looking for comfortable and effective hearing protection. The custom molding system ensures a perfect fit that won’t hurt or fall out, and the earplugs have a high noise reduction rating of 31dB. Additionally, the product comes with multiple tips and a carrying pouch for easy storage and transport.
However, some users have reported discomfort after wearing the earplugs for extended periods of time. Additionally, the molding process can be difficult to get right on the first try, and the earplugs may not be suitable for those with very small ear canals.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality pair of earplugs for shooting, traveling, or loud concerts, the Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs are definitely worth considering. Just be aware of the potential drawbacks before making your purchase.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying hearing protection for shooting, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a measurement of how much noise reduction a hearing protection device provides. The higher the NRR, the more effective the product is at reducing noise. Look for a product with an NRR of at least 20 for shooting, but keep in mind that higher NRRs may be necessary for particularly loud firearms.
Type of Hearing Protection
There are several types of hearing protection available for shooting, including earplugs, earmuffs, and electronic earmuffs. Earplugs are small and portable, but may not provide as much protection as earmuffs. Earmuffs are bulkier but can provide more comprehensive protection. Electronic earmuffs are a newer option that allow you to hear normal conversation while still blocking out loud noises.
Comfort and Fit
It’s important to choose a product that is comfortable and fits well, as you may be wearing it for extended periods of time. Look for products with adjustable headbands or earplugs that come in different sizes to ensure a good fit.
Durability
Shooting can be tough on hearing protection, so it’s important to choose a product that is durable and can withstand wear and tear. Look for products made with high-quality materials that are designed to last.
In summary, when choosing hearing protection for shooting, consider the NRR, type of hearing protection, comfort and fit, and durability. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure you choose a product that provides the best protection for your needs.
How Many Decibels Is A Gunshot
When it comes to shooting, it’s important to understand the potential damage that can be caused to our hearing. Gunshots are incredibly loud, and exposure to them without proper hearing protection can cause permanent hearing damage.
So, how many decibels is a gunshot? Well, it depends on the type of firearm being used. Generally speaking, a gunshot can range from 140-190 decibels (dB). For comparison, a normal conversation is around 60 dB and a rock concert can be around 120 dB.
To give you a better idea of the decibel levels of different firearms, here’s a table:
| Firearm | Decibel Level |
|---|---|
| .22 caliber rifle | 140 dB |
| 9mm handgun | 160 dB |
| .45 caliber handgun | 165 dB |
| 12-gauge shotgun | 170 dB |
| .308 caliber rifle | 175 dB |
| .50 caliber rifle | 190 dB |
As you can see, even the lowest decibel level on this list is still well above the safe threshold for hearing. That’s why it’s crucial to always wear proper hearing protection when shooting.
It’s also worth noting that the length of exposure time can also play a role in hearing damage. Even with hearing protection, prolonged exposure to loud noises can cause damage over time. That’s why it’s important to take breaks and give your ears a rest during shooting sessions.
In conclusion, gunshots can range from 140-190 decibels depending on the firearm being used. It’s important to always wear proper hearing protection and take breaks during shooting sessions to prevent permanent hearing damage.
What Hearing Protection To Use: Earplugs or Earmuffs
When it comes to shooting, hearing protection is a must. But which type of hearing protection should you use: earplugs or earmuffs? The answer is that it depends on your personal preference and the situation.
Earplugs are small and portable, making them easy to carry around in your pocket or range bag. They are also typically less expensive than earmuffs. Earplugs come in different shapes and sizes, so you can find a pair that fits comfortably in your ear. Some earplugs are disposable, while others are reusable and can be cleaned after each use.
Earmuffs, on the other hand, provide more coverage and protection than earplugs. They cover the entire ear and have a cushioned seal that helps block out noise. Earmuffs can also be more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, as they don’t put pressure on the ear canal like earplugs sometimes can. Earmuffs are also easier to put on and take off, making them a good choice if you need to quickly remove your hearing protection.
Ultimately, the decision between earplugs and earmuffs comes down to personal preference and the situation. If you are shooting in an indoor range or in a situation where there is a lot of noise, earmuffs may be the better choice. If you are shooting outdoors or need to be more mobile, earplugs may be a more convenient option.
It’s also worth noting that some shooters choose to use both earplugs and earmuffs for maximum protection. This is especially important for those who shoot frequently or for extended periods of time. Using both types of hearing protection can help reduce the risk of hearing damage and ensure that you can continue to enjoy shooting for years to come.
Measuring Noise Levels with Decibel Pro App
To ensure proper hearing protection when shooting, it’s important to measure the noise levels in your environment. One useful tool for this is the Decibel Pro app, which can be downloaded on most smartphones.
Using the app is simple. Just open it up and hold your phone near the source of the noise. The app will then give you a reading of the decibel level. It’s important to note that the app is not as accurate as professional equipment, but it can still give you a good estimate of the noise level.
When measuring noise levels for shooting, it’s important to keep in mind that the safe limit for exposure is 140 decibels. Any noise above this level can cause permanent hearing damage. It’s recommended to wear hearing protection if the noise level exceeds 85 decibels.
By using the Decibel Pro app, we can ensure that we are taking the necessary steps to protect our hearing while shooting. It’s a simple and convenient tool that can make a big difference in preserving our hearing for years to come.
In addition to measuring noise levels, the app also allows you to track your exposure to noise over time. This can be helpful in determining if you are at risk for hearing damage and if you need to take additional precautions. Overall, the Decibel Pro app is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to protect their hearing while shooting.
Understanding the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
When it comes to selecting the best hearing protection for shooting, understanding the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is crucial. The NRR is a measure of the amount of noise that a hearing protection device can reduce, expressed in decibels (dB). The higher the NRR, the more effective the hearing protection is at reducing noise.
It is important to note that the NRR is not a guarantee of how much noise reduction you will experience. The NRR is based on laboratory tests and assumes that the hearing protection is worn correctly. In real-world situations, factors such as fit, duration of use, and type of noise can all affect the actual amount of noise reduction.
When selecting hearing protection, it is recommended to choose a device with an NRR of at least 20 dB. However, keep in mind that a higher NRR does not necessarily mean better hearing protection. The most important factor is ensuring that the hearing protection fits properly and is comfortable to wear.
It is also important to note that the NRR is not additive. For example, wearing earplugs with an NRR of 20 dB and earmuffs with an NRR of 25 dB does not provide a total noise reduction of 45 dB. Instead, the actual noise reduction is determined by the device with the highest NRR.
In summary, understanding the NRR is an important factor in selecting the best hearing protection for shooting. While a higher NRR can provide more noise reduction, it is important to ensure that the device fits properly and is comfortable to wear.
