Shooting Ear Protection Explained | Different Styles and Purposes
Are you an avid shooter looking for the right ear protection? Do you find yourself struggling to choose between all the different styles and purposes available?
Shooting ear protection is necessary for anyone who engages in shooting sports to guard against hearing loss and other adverse effects of firearm noise exposure.
Shooting ranges can be incredibly loud, and the sound of gunfire can cause damage to your hearing over time. That's why proper ear protection is essential for any shooter, whether you're an experienced marksman or just starting out.
Choosing ear protection for shooting can be overwhelming, as there are many different types of ear protection available with various purposes. In this blog post, we will explore the different styles and purposes of ear protection for shooting so that you can make an informed decision and protect your hearing for years to come.
Definition of Shooting Ear Protection
Shooting ear protection is a vital tool in safeguarding shooters from hearing loss due to firearm noise exposure.
The loud sounds produced by firearms can cause irreversible hearing damage, making shooting ear protection a must-have for anyone who spends time at the range or in hunting environments.
Various types of ear protection are available for shooters to choose from. These devices work by reducing the sound intensity to a safe level, which is measured in decibels. The level of protection provided by ear defenders is indicated by the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) rating, which is measured in decibels. The higher the NRR rating, the more effective the ear protection device is.
Purpose of Ear Protection for Shooting
The purpose of shooting ear protection is not only to block loud sounds but also to ensure clear communication and sound accuracy. Many ear defenders and electronic earplugs come with features like adjustable headbands, microphones, and audio input to allow for ambient sound amplification while blocking hazardous noise.
Advantages of Using Shooting Ear Protection
It's common knowledge that exposure to loud noises can cause permanent hearing damage. However, many shooters don't realise that gunshot noise can exceed 140 decibels, which is beyond the safe threshold of human ears.
Here are some advantages of using shooting ear protection:
- Hearing loss prevention: the primary advantage of using shooting ear protection is that it can effectively prevent hearing loss by reducing the intensity of harmful noise - a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of at least 25 dB can provide sufficient protection.
- Comfortable and convenient: shooters have a wide range of ear protection options that are comfortable and easy to use, adding to the enjoyment of a shoot out in the field or at the practice range
- Maintains Situational Awareness: having the correct ear protection helps to keep you focused on the environment around you, which is particularly important for shooter safety. It helps to promote concentration and be aware of environmental cues and range commands
- Long-term Hearing Preservation: by avoiding prolonged exposure to loud noises, this helps prevent the development of tinnitus and other noise-induced hearing loss that can develop over time
- Reduces Noise Levels: this helps to keep you focused, which, in turn, improves accuracy and a better shoot.
Shooting ear protection is a crucial investment for any shooter that wants to maintain good hearing health. By using earplugs, ear defenders, or electronic hearing protection, shooters can prevent hearing loss and enjoy the shooting experience safely and comfortably.
Types of Shooting Ear Protection
There are four types of shooting ear protection available:
- Earplugs - small and easy to carry, making them convenient for hunting or competitions. They fit snugly into the ear canal, reducing noise levels. You can get reusable earplugs or disposable earplugs
- Ear Defenders or Ear Muffs - larger and cover the entire ear. They are more effective in reducing noise levels than earplugs and are generally more comfortable as well
- Electronic Hearing Protection - most advanced type of ear protection. It uses microphones to amplify ambient noise and then automatically reduces sound levels above a safe level. This type of protection allows for communication while wearing hearing protection
- Custom-Fit Ear Protection - this is ear protection that is individually customised to suit the wearer and subsequently provides maximum protection and effectiveness.
Earplugs are a great option for those who want a simple solution that doesn't interfere with their shooting. Ear defenders are a good choice for those who want a more comfortable and effective option and don't mind the bulk. Electronic hearing protection and custom-fit ear protection is top of the line in terms of protecting your hearing while allowing for communication, but it is the most expensive option.
Overall, the type of ear protection a shooter chooses will depend on personal preference, as well as the noise level of the activity in question.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shooting Ear Protection
Choosing the right ear protection for shooting should be a top priority for any shooter as it plays a crucial role in protecting your ears from potential damage caused by loud sounds.
The following factors should be considered when choosing shooting ear protection:
- Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) or Noise Reduction Level (NRL): this is an important factor to consider as it indicates the level of protection offered by the ear protection from loud sounds. The higher the NRR, the better the protection
- Type of Ear Protection: there are different types of ear protection including ear defenders and earplugs. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on what you are using them for and what your noise exposure level will be
- Level of Noise: the level of noise in your shooting environment plays a role in determining the level of noise protection you require. Shooting ranges can have different levels of noise, so it’s important to choose ear protection that can handle the sound level
- Fit & Comfort: wearing comfortable ear protection is essential for shooters who need to wear them for extended periods of time when facing exposure to noise
- Durability: choosing adequate hearing protection that is durable and long-lasting is important, especially for frequent shooters and those subject to high levels of sound
- Cost: your budget needs to factor in, as well as making sure you are getting value for money and also not ending up with cheap ear protection that doesn't do the job properly
- Compliance With Regulations: many shooting ranges, competitions, or organised shoots have certain mandatory safety requirements that you must comply with this - this often includes wearing hearing protection
- Communication & Awareness: does the ear protection for shooting chosen allow you to effectively communicate with others around you and keep you aware of your surroundings? Think about the typical shoot environment you are in and then look for earplugs or ear defenders that suit this
- Compatibility with Shooting Accessories: shooters know that there is a lot more to a good outfit than just a quality shooting jacket! Your shooting ear protection needs to be compatible and fit with the rest of your accessories, such as your hunting cap or safety glasses
- Portability & Storage: consider how you will be transporting your ear protection and whether you prefer something that's going to slip into your pocket, like earplugs, or something that might need its own case or bag.
Which Brands Make the Best Shooting Ear Protection?
When it comes to shooting ear protection, there are a number of great brands that offer earplugs, ear defenders, and electronic hearing protection.
Here are some of the best brands to consider:
1. 3M Peltor: with a focus on high-tech electronic hearing protection, 3M Peltor offers a range of products with superior noise reduction ratings. Peltor ear defenders remain a popular choice for shooters prioritising comfort and safety when out on a shoot
2. Jack Pyke: known for their top quality shooting accessories, this hunting brand has a great range of ear defenders and earplugs that are comfortable and durable. Their ear defenders have a fully adjustable padded headband and soft cushions so you can shoot in noisy environments with comfort
3. Bisley: their electronic hearing protection comes packed with great features like independent volume controls, as well as offering excellent noise reduction and lightweight designs.
Overall, these brands offer a wide range of shooting ear protection products, each with their own unique features and capabilities. It's important to choose the type of ear protection that meets your specific needs and preferences, whether that be earplugs, ear defenders, electronic hearing protection, or custom-fit ear protection.
Summary
Ear protection for shooting is an essential accessory for any individual who engages in shooting activities, both for hearing protection and an enjoyable shoot.
There are a variety of styles and purposes of ear protection available. The type of ear protection chosen should be based on factors such as noise level, personal preference, and intended use. Different styles including earplugs, ear defenders, and electronic ear protection have their unique advantages and disadvantages. It is important to evaluate these factors before making a purchasing decision.
Remember, your hearing is irreplaceable, and protecting it should be a top priority while shooting.
