Hearing Protection
Hearing protection is an essential aspect of any gun range session, yet it is often underestimated by many shooters. Movies and series have created the image of a quiet firearm whose shot, though audible, isn’t damaging. The truth is quite different. The loudness of regular gunshots can be detrimental to one's hearing, and being exposed to such noises without proper protection is a surefire way to rapid hearing loss. Investing in high-quality hearing protection for shooting isn’t a question of preference. It’s an absolute necessity. There are several types of hearing protection means available for those who frequent the gun range, including ear muffs, earplugs, and headphones.
Hearing Protection Earmuffs
Hearing protection earmuffs provide a comfortable and secure grip over the ears. Ear muffs for hearing protection are designed to create a seal around the ear, effectively reducing the noise levels of gunshots. They come in various styles and designs, with some models offering additional features such as electronic noise-cancellation or amplification of ambient sounds for improved situational awareness.
Hearing Protection Earplugs
Earplugs, on the other hand, are a more compact and discreet option for hearing protection. These small devices are inserted directly into the ear canal, creating a barrier that blocks out loud noises. Earbuds for hearing protection can be made of foam, silicone, or even custom-molded materials to ensure a perfect fit. Although they may not offer the same level of noise reduction as ear muffs, earplugs are a popular choice for those who prefer a less bulky solution or require compatibility with other headgear, such as hats or eyewear. Or they can be combined with earmuffs - this combo amplifies the benefits of both means.
Hearing Protection Headphones
Lastly, hearing protection headphones combine the benefits of earmuffs and earplugs into a single, advanced solution. These headphones often feature active noise-cancellation technology that can significantly reduce gunshot noises while still allowing the user to hear important environmental sounds. Additionally, some models are equipped with Bluetooth capabilities, enabling shooters to listen to music or communicate with others without exposing their ears to harmful noise levels.
We at Gritr Sports actively promote responsible firearm training and have a huge selection of hearing protection for hunters and shooting enthusiasts. We work with such brands as Walker’s Game Ear, Radians, Etymotic Research and other brands to bring you products whose performance is nothing short of exemplary.
FAQs
What are the major types of hearing protectors?
The two major means of protecting your ears are earplugs and earmuffs. They are the most popular choice for shooting ranges, though protective headphones are also a valid option.
What is the best dB for ear protection?
As a rule, the best earmuffs and ear plugs can reduce the noise by as much as 30 dB. That’s a ballpark estimate, as 31 and 32 dB can too be found.
Are earplugs or earmuffs better?
Earplugs are inserted directly into the ear channel, creating a seal. The same cannot be said about earmuffs. With that being said, earmuffs are said to be better at muffling high-frequency noises, while earplugs excel at reducing low-frequency noises.