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10 Best Hearing Protection for Shooting
You need to take this seriously because gunshots fall into a category of sounds known as concussive blasts. Imagine hitting a gong or crashing two cymbals together. That violent impact causes high-frequency reverberation within the eardrum. It can cause tears, damage the cochlea and create conditions perfect for hearing loss or long-term tinnitus from just a single bullet being fired.
If you want me to put it into context, hearing damage can occur at 85db (decibels) the sound produced from the average 9mm handgun is 160db, and even suppressed firearms can operate at around 140db.
Can I use earbuds as hearing protection for shooting?
Yes, you can use earbuds for hearing protection when shooting. I am of the double protection school of thinking, and I use a set of Titan Tactical earbuds in combination with Walker’s Razor Slim Low Profile Earmuffs. While it is not advised to only use earbuds as sole protection against hearing loss I know many people who do just that contrary to the CDC’s advice on appropriate hearing protection when shooting.
If you are in that camp, please be sure to go with a trusted hearing protection brand like Howard Leight etc who tests their products to the correct ISO safety standards. Each product should clearly state the reduction in DB that can be expected when correctly using the earbuds.
I say correctly because that is imperative to getting the maximum benefit and stopping long-term hearing damage. Follow the instructions for the model you are using to the word. All too often I see lazy people at the range with earbuds hanging out their ears offering no security at all.
When I approach these people and tell them their earbuds are incorrectly inserted (yes, I’m that guy) the usual response is that they find the earplugs to be uncomfortable in the ear canal. Pushing further and asking about why they then don’t use earmuffs the complaint is that they are bulky and uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, this is just one of the situations where you are going to have to choose one and use it the right way. Trust me having worked with ex-soldiers who have had hearing loss in the past is heartbreaking. If you can prevent it do so at all costs irrespective of the temporary discomfort it may cause.
Earplugs vs Ear Muff for shooting
I’m still surprised that people consider earplugs vs earmuffs as a one or the other choice. Seriously use both if you can simultaneously.
I talked a little in the section above about the two methods of hearing protection for shooters; both have their benefits.
Earplugs are a very basic but effective way to block out damaging external noise. They are low cost and easy to carry. However, they are limited to the amount of noise that can be blocked and are prone to incorrect usage resulting in sub-optimal effects.
Earmuffs, from good brands, are a more expensive option but can reach higher levels of noise reduction and are generally easier to use because you simply have to ensure your ears are covered.
Another advantage of using earmuffs when shooting is that you can get some models which allow passthrough audio. This style will allow some passive sound such as conversations and ambient noise into the headset via speakers whilst still blocking high-impact ballistic noise.
If you want my thoughts on the best noise protection options when shooting in particular scenarios like hunting, range, operating as well as budget and luxury options then read carefully in the “features” section of the list below to find one that suits you. If you have any questions please feel free to join the discussion on our Facebook or Instagram pages.
Wireless Earbuds for shooters
People often ask whether they can use earbuds for shooting and if they protect their hearing. I also get asked a lot about recommendations for the best wireless earbuds for shooting.
While trying in-ear monitors will reduce external noise most are not specifically designed with ballistic noise in mind. Instead, studio earphones from Shure and Etymotic, to name just two, are designed for studio and stage use and are meant to block consistent and ambient noises such as crowds and fellow musicians.
The good news is that the market for wireless earbuds designed for shooting is a fast-growing market. The big players right now are Walkers, Caldwell, ISOtunes, who all make wireless earbuds for shooters. There are some other brands that can make excellent products and have a good reputation like 3M (the construction product company) which make wireless earbuds for high–impact sounds in law enforcement and the work environment.
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