Ear Protection Question

[SCMA-1]

I don't use ear plugs because you can't hear anything. I don't like muffs at all. I've been using ear baffles/ear valves for 30 years or so; they look like plugs but have in internal baffle system that will block off harmful high db sounds like gunfire. They used to be called Norton Sonic II's but then the name changed to North Sonic II's. I've also seen other manufacturers carry a similar design including Silencio and Radians:

http://www.dealerease.net/catalog/product.asp?ret_id=806356&pid=55903

https://www.rrarms.com/catalog.php?prod=14311

http://earplugstore.stores.yahoo.net/health-enterprises-acu-life-shooters-impact-ear-plugs.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=43292

They are comfortable and work very well while allowing you to hear fairly well. I even use them at the indoor ranges and have never over the years experienced ringing afterwards or any loss of hearing. They work!

SCMA-1

[1911su16b870]

A big +1 to the electronic ear muffs, Peltor 6 series for me. Only problem is that those pesky AAA alkaline batteries can leak and ruin the electronics. I've lost two sets that way...I shouldn't keep them in the range bag in my car 24/7...

[bruceflinch]

I had some of the custom fited injection molded ones made last time I was at the Grand Prix race.

I got some of made at a gun show for $45. Excellant! Great product.

[Z ME FLY]

I have a pair of cheap electronic muffs and I use some foam plugs. I can still hear things going on around me but enough protection when I am shooting. I like going electronic since I can leave my hearing on and still talk to people while shooting is still going on or without having to take it off and put it back on. You can pay a lot of $$$ for electronic muffs but I got a pair of HLs for $40 from I think midway or cheaperthandirt

[Z ME FLY]

A big +1 to the electronic ear muffs, Peltor 6 series for me. Only problem is that those pesky AAA alkaline batteries can leak and ruin the electronics. I've lost two sets that way...I shouldn't keep them in the range bag in my car 24/7...

Damn this actually reminds me, I hope my GF turned them off when we went shooting at BLM. That was 3 weeks ago, if not they are probably dead by now.

[One Shot, One Dropped]

A (few) good pair(s) of foam ear plugs have always worked for me, but I'll probably pay for that later (I'm still young enough that I haven't suffered any noticeable damage to my hearing, but I don't think they are the best, just most comfortable).

[Z ME FLY]

A (few) good pair(s) of foam ear plugs have always worked for me, but I'll probably pay for that later (I'm still young enough that I haven't suffered any noticeable damage to my hearing, but I don't think they are the best, just most comfortable).

Get some electronic muffs. Your hearing will thank you later

[H.M.]

The REASON why you need to double up (plugs and muffs) is that plugs alone don't protect you from the sound conducted through the bones (you skull) surrounding your ear.

Personally, I used the filter type plugs (I've got a couple different brands that work ok) and cover them with electronic muffs. I can converse and hear range commands ok.

Hearing damage is cumulative and non-reversible.

[Beelzy]

I use muffs, I found if hearing protection can drown out the wife's shrill pitch
that's the one to use for shooting firearms.

Muffs do it nicely.

[PatriotnMore]

I agree, best purchase at the show.

I got some of made at a gun show for $45. Excellant! Great product.

[k1dude]

I have a skinny face and still can't use earmuffs with a rifle. You can't shoulder and secure your cheek without the earmuff interfering and scratching your stock. It's fine with CQB heads up optics, but not one eye shooting.

So when I shoot a rifle, I keep my earmuff on my left ear (I'm right handed). I slide the right ear pad behind my ear and use an earplug. It's not an ideal situation, but no one has invented a earmuff yet that works for me.

SCMA-1, a couple of those ear plugs you recommended only have 6 and 7 dBa NRR ratings. That's WAY too little. You could seriously damage your ears with that little protection.

[Grakken]

peltor Tac6s Behind the head

I Own this and it works for me, with rifle too. YMMV

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?type=product&id=0006334222686a&cmCat=netcon&cm_ven=netcon&cm_cat=Google&cm_pla=peltor%20tactical%206s%20behind&cm_ite=netcon

[xrMike]

I Own this and it works for me, with rifle too. YMMV

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...&cm_ite=netcon

Same here. I like 'em. Although they feel a little tight after an hour on my melon head. I would never wear them without also doubling up with foam plugs though. Tried that once, and they don't provide enough protection, imo.

If you wear foam plugs and turn the Peltors up all the way, you can still hear normal conversations around you (and even persons talking low, who think you can't hear them ), and get excellent protection.