The Best Shooting Ear Protection in 2024 [Tested]

When it comes to hitting the range, there’s one thing that should always be in your arsenal: top-notch hearing protection. As you’ll see, most firearms produce a decibel (dB) level that will cause permanent hearing damage, so ear protection is a must. However, there are many types of shooting protection for your ears, each with different levels of protection to choose from. So, how do you choose the best shooting ear protection?

In this article, we’re diving headfirst into the world of shooting ear protection. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or just starting out, finding the right gear to shield your ears without compromising your shooting experience is key. From earmuffs to earplugs, electronic to passive, I’ll be your guide through the best options available. So, if you’re gearing up for a day at the range or looking to upgrade your protection game, stick around—I’ve got the inside scoop on the best shooting protection for your ears.

Why You Need Shooting Ear Protection

Every time you pull the trigger, you’re setting off a mini-explosion just inches from your ears. Exposure to intensive noise greater than 140 dB can permanently cause hearing damage and as you can guess, most firearms fire at a lot more than 140 dB. Consistent exposure to this level of noise without protection can lead to hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears). It’s not just about the loudness; it’s the cumulative effect over time. Even a single shot without protection can cause immediate and irreversible damage.

Therefore, in order to bring down the sound of gunshots to a safe level, you need adequate hearing protection. For this, you need a hearing protection that has an NRR rating of 22 or greater. I have made sure that all recommended shooting hearing protection has at least that level. Here’s how I set out to review the best shooting ear protection and curate this list.

How I Set Up To Review the Best Shooting Ear Protection

As someone who’s spent time behind the scope as a special operations sniper and has a deep-rooted passion for firearms, I’ve learned firsthand the absolute necessity of safeguarding your hearing. I’ve used just about every kind of ear protection out there and am familiar with most of the big brands and their products in the industry.

However, I really wanted to make sure that this was a comprehensive article, so I discussed with my colleagues the products they favored and ordered anything I hadn’t used myself. After testing them all, I came up with this list of the best shooting ear protection.

Now, when it comes to ear protection for shooting, there are three types. Each type is best suited for specific situations. I’ve given you a quick summary of them here and have discussed them in detail in the buyer’s guide.

• Earplugs: These fit in your ear, are typically made of foam, and are the least expensive option. The cheapest earplugs are disposable, and although they don’t cost much, they aren’t intended to be used again.
• Earmuffs: They fit over your ear to block out the sound and are a little more expensive, but they can be used over and over again. 
• Electronic Hearing Protection: Using electronics, these earmuffs will reduce the sound of the shot, while amplifying your conversation and voice. This is exceptionally beneficial for shooting because it allows the wearer to hear conversations, but still protects them from gunshot noises.

There’s no single hearing protection gear that would be the best fit for every shooter out there. Different people have different problems and budgets, and they require different solutions. That’s why I’ve found the best shooting ear protection for each class and discussed why they are the best fit for their class.

Best Shooting Ear Protection:

The best shooting ear protection is:

1. ShellShock EXO PRO (Best Overall)
2. Howard Leight Impact Sport Bolt (Best Electronic)
3. Decibullz Custom Ear Plugs (Best In-Ear)
4. 3M Peltor Sport Earmuffs (Best Ear Muff)
5. Dr. Meter Kids Earmuffs (Best for Kids)
6. Peltor Sport Tactical 500 (Premium)

Hearing Protection – Editor’s Choice

Best Overall ShellShock EXO PRO		Best Overall Super-fast attack time of 0.5ms NRR: 22	CHECK PRICE
Best Electronic Howard Leight: Impact Sport Bolt		Editor’s Choice & Best ROI Affordable Electronic Option NRR: 22	See Amazon Price
Best Ear Plugs Decibullz Custom Molded		Best In-Ear option Custom molded – super easy and comfortable NRR: 31	See Amazon Price
Best Ear Muffs 3M PRO Shotgunner Low Profile		Best Ear Muffs Inexpensive NRR: 24	See Amazon Price
Best For Kids Dr. Meter Kids Noise Reduction		Best for Kids Inexpensive NRR: 27	See Amazon Price
Best Premium Peltor Sports Tactical 500		Best electronics Bluetooth capability NRR: 26	Check Price

Spec Comparison of the Best Shooting Ear Protection

Reviews of the Best Electronic Shooting Ear Protection

Electronic earmuffs are our favorite style of hearing protection for most types of shooting. An Electronic earmuff helps amplify conversations, and hear safe noises, while also protecting you from the unsafe levels of sound from gunshots.

Best Electronic

1. ShellShock EXO PRO		Best Overall Super-fast attack time of 0.5ms NRR: 22	Check Price
2. Howard Leight Impact Sport Bolt		Editor’s Choice & Best ROI Affordable Electronic Option NRR: 22	Check Amazon
3. Peltor Sport Tactical 500		NRR: 26 dB noise reduction rating Ideal for both indoor and outdoor shooters Dynamic Suppression Time	Check Amazon
4. Walker’s Razor Slim Shooter		2 omnidirectional microphones Provides sound activated protection over 89 DB at 0.02 reaction time Noise reduction rating of 23DB.	Check Amazon

I’ve tried a lot of hearing protection over the years, but the ShellShock EXO PRO has become my absolute favorite. They’ve taken over from my longtime go-to, the Howard Leight Bolts. Here’s why I believe they are the best overall choice for shooting ear protection in this list.

First off, the sound capability is fantastic. With a 22dB NRR rating and a super-fast attack time of 0.5ms, these cut out noise just as well as the Bolts. I tested them by clapping while talking to friends, and the response was spot on—quick and clear. They let me have conversations without any awkward delays, which is a big deal at the range.

Construction-wise, the ShellShocks are a clear winner. They’re lighter and built better than the Bolts. The headband is super comfy with just the right amount of padding, and the cheekwell indent is perfect for rifle shooting. Speaking of the build quality, I see no cheap materials here—everything feels solid and well-made.

One little feature I love is the LED light indicator. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve accidentally left my hearing protection on and drained the battery. The LED light solves this problem perfectly. Some might worry about the light giving away your position, but that’s a minor issue in my book.

The gel pads are another big plus. They’re incredibly comfortable and create a great seal, reducing pressure from my eye protection. Before, I had to buy gel pads separately for my Bolts, but with the ShellShocks, they come included.

In short, the ShellShock EXO PRO is now my go-to hearing protection. Their superior design, comfort, and thoughtful features have made them a permanent fixture in my range bag.

You can read the full review of the ShellShock EXO PRO here

ShellShock EXO PRO Pros and Cons

Howard Leight Impact Sport Bolt Review

When it comes to hitting the shooting range, the Howard Leight Impact Sport Bolt ranks as my second-best hearing protection. It stands out as the best electronic choice in my lineup, and here’s why.

First off, these earmuffs balance sound amplification and noise reduction perfectly. The sound quality is impressive, amplifying ambient noises while blocking out harmful sounds more effectively than most in this price range.

One feature I really appreciate is the auto-shut-off mechanism. I’ve often lost track of time and forgotten to turn off other earmuffs, which drain their batteries. The Impact Sport Bolt’s auto-shut-off is a game-changer. It shows a thoughtful design that values user convenience and preserves battery life.

Having used various earmuffs in military and commercial settings, durability is a big deal for me. The Impact Sport Bolt has proven to be rugged and reliable, outlasting other sets I’ve owned and offering great value.

Comfort is key during long shooting sessions, and these earmuffs excel here too. They have a low-profile design that fits well with rifles or shotguns, are lightweight, and remain comfortable for extended wear without causing discomfort.

While these earmuffs are fantastic, they have a few drawbacks. Occasionally, I’ve experienced electronic interference when my cell phone is too close, and they lean towards the lower end in terms of sound protection required for some settings.

To enhance these already excellent earmuffs, check out our ear protection upgrades section and look into the Noisefighter ear pads and a carrying case. These upgrades can further elevate your experience and provide additional comfort during prolonged use.

Howard Leight Impact Sport Bolt Pros and Cons

Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Review

The Peltor Sport Tactical 500 is seriously impressive when it comes to noise protection. Using them felt like stepping into a soundproof room—there’s a clear “wow” factor.

What makes these earmuffs stand out is their top-notch noise reduction and Bluetooth capability. Out of all the electronic earmuffs I’ve tested, these are easily the most premium.

However, they didn’t snag the absolute top spot for a few reasons. While the Bluetooth is great for listening to music or podcasts, it doesn’t let you adjust ambient noise levels as much as my top pick. The volume controls, which use up and down buttons, are a bit less intuitive than a simple dial. Plus, the earmuffs are a bit bulky, which can be awkward when handling a rifle or shotgun.

Price is another consideration. At nearly three times the cost of my top pick, these earmuffs are a serious investment. While they offer excellent features and noise reduction, that high price tag might be a dealbreaker for some.

Still, the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 is fantastic. In an indoor range setup where you’d want superior sound protection, these earmuffs shine. They were the standout performers during our sound booth testing, bar none.

If you’re in the market for the quietest earmuffs and willing to invest in a larger, premium set, look no further than the Peltor Sport Tactical 500.

Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Pros and Cons

Reviews of the Best Earmuffs for Shooting

Although we love the mentioned electronic ear muffs, they aren’t always necessary.

Standard shooting earmuffs are less expensive and can be a very handy option for hearing protection when shooting (especially as an extra set for someone else or for kids).

3M Peltor Sport Shotgunner II Low Profile Review

I’ve given the 3M Peltor Sport Shotgunner II a thorough test, and honestly, it’s a top choice for non-electronic ear protection. What I love about these earmuffs is their no-frills approach. They don’t have fancy electronics, but they get the basics right.

Comfort and practicality are what matter most to me, and these earmuffs nail both. They’re the right size and weight, and the price is just right. After a long day at the range, comfort is key, and these earmuffs fit snugly without feeling too tight. The headband is designed to stay comfortable, even during extended wear.

I really appreciate the design. The tapered cuffs don’t get in the way when I’m handling rifles or shotguns, which makes shooting smoother. They’re collapsible, so they’re easy to store, and they’re durable. Plus, the removable foam insert makes the cleaning process easy.

The 21-decibel noise reduction might not be enough for louder calibers like .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor, but for most shooting, they’re more than adequate. For those high-caliber days, I double up with foam inserts for extra protection.

In the world of non-electronic earmuffs, the 3M Peltor Sport Shotgunner II stands out for its comfort, durability, and straightforward effectiveness. They’re a dependable choice if you’re after no-fuss ear protection.

3M Peltor Sport Shotgunner II Low Profile Pros and Cons

Dr. Meter Kids Noise Reduction Earmuffs Review

I recently tried out the Dr. Meter Kids Noise Reduction Earmuffs, and they’ve made a huge difference for my ten-year-old. They’ve become our go-to for shooting sessions and any loud events like music gigs, sports games, or even just busy days on the farm. What really stands out to me is their design and how easy they are to adjust.

Right off the bat, I noticed how well these earmuffs fit kids. They’re not bulky like adult versions; instead, they have a clever adjustment system. A simple tug on the side adjusts the fit, thanks to the hinged design and metal arch. Once they’re on, they form a solid noise barrier.

The cushioning is another highlight. It fits snugly around my son’s head, even when extended, and the vibrant blue color is perfect for kids. I also appreciate how versatile these earmuffs are. You can adjust the fit to change the level of noise reduction, making them adaptable to different environments and noise levels.

What makes these earmuffs stand out as the top choice for kids is their thoughtful design. Many earmuffs, even electronic ones, can be too big or uncomfortable for children. But these Dr. Meter earmuffs are smaller, providing a secure fit with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 27.

Dr. Meter Kids Noise Reduction Earmuffs Pros and Cons

Reviews of the Best In-Ear Protection for Shooting

Earplugs are extremely useful for protecting your hearing while shooting. A good set of in-ear plugs offers excellent protection, plus they’re compact and easy to keep in your pocket for quick access.

You can also find disposable earplugs, which are a budget-friendly option to keep extra sets on hand. They’re great for emergencies or for sharing with others who need hearing protection. Just remember, once disposable earplugs are used, they’re meant to be thrown away, not returned.

Decibullz Custom Molded Ear Plugs Review

The Decibullz Custom Molded Ear Plugs have proven to be an exceptional find. What first caught my attention was their innovative customization approach. I came across them at the SHOT Show’s media day, and in just a few minutes, they had molded a set of earplugs specifically for me. The fit was spot-on, and the comfort was immediately noticeable.

It was impressive how these earplugs stood out amidst all the firearms and gear. The reactions from others were overwhelmingly positive; everyone who tried them were equally amazed.

What really sets Decibullz apart is how they’ve simplified the custom-molding process. Instead of spending a fortune and hours at a gun show, you can mold these earplugs at home. A quick dip in warm water, a bit of molding, and you’ve got a perfect fit. If it’s not quite right, just reheat and adjust until it is.

Plus, their versatility is a huge bonus. The interchangeable inserts let you switch between different functions, whether it’s acoustic filters or radio earpieces. The noise reduction is outstanding—sometimes, it feels almost too quiet.

I’ve ranked Decibullz as the best in-ear protection because they combine excellent protection, incredible comfort, and affordability. Before you splurge on pricier electronic earmuffs, I highly recommend giving Decibullz a try. They truly redefine what in-ear protection can be.

Decibullz Custom Molded Ear Plugs Pros and Cons

Radian Resistor Reviews

The Radian Resistor 32 Foam Earplugs definitely earn a spot on my list, but I see them more as a solid backup rather than a full replacement for my main ear protection. They’re perfect for those times when I need a quick, disposable option.

I love how convenient they are. Each pair comes in its own poly bag, which is great for hygiene and on-the-go use. I never have to worry about wear and tear since I can just grab a fresh pair when needed.

It’s reassuring to know these earplugs are tested to ANSI standards in Radians’ top-notch lab, so I trust their reliability.

That said, they’re not ideal for long-term use. They work well for short bursts, but extended wear can get uncomfortable, which is common with disposable foam earplugs. I consider them an essential addition to my gear, ready to step in when needed, but not a standalone solution for long hours of protection.

Overall, their disposability, ease of use, and effectiveness make them a valuable asset in my toolkit, ensuring I’m always ready to protect my hearing.

Radian Resistor Pros and Cons

Peltor Sport Tri-Flange Review

I’ll be honest—when it comes to the Peltor Sport Tri-Flange earplugs, they aren’t my cup of tea. It’s not that they aren’t functional; they just don’t quite suit my ears the way I’d prefer. Yet, despite my personal reservations, there’s a reason these made it to the third spot on our list of the “Best in Ear Plugs.”

What stands out to me is their affordability and reusability. They offer a budget-friendly option for decent ear protection without breaking the bank. I’ve seen these earplugs work wonders for many of my colleagues; it’s just that my ears don’t seem to agree with this style.

For me, the smooth plastic tends to make them slip out occasionally, and the flanges designed to keep them in place often cause more discomfort than I’d like. With an NRR rating of 26, they don’t quite stack up to other options on our list that have higher ratings in the 30s.

That said, if you’re someone who doesn’t mind this style and is looking for a budget-friendly option that has worked well for many shooters, the Peltor Sport Tri-Flange earplugs might just be the right fit for you.

Peltor Sport Tri-Flange Pros and Cons

Editor’s Choice: What I Actually Own and Use

When I head to the range or head out for a hunt, I either take my Howard Leight Impact Sport Bolt earmuffs or my Decibullz custom-molded earplugs.

In my standard range bag, I keep my Howard Leights, with their Noisefighter gel pads, in a carrying case (both below), my Decibullz plugs, and a bottle of Radian Resistor foam earplugs.

This allows me to choose between my earmuffs or my earplugs depending on the style of shooting, and it allows me to hand out a set of foam plugs to anyone who forgot their ear protection.

For most pistol and rifle work, I use my electronic earmuffs. However, if I am going to be on a rifle for a while, I will often use my Decibullz. If I’m shooting clay targets with a shotgun, I almost always use my Decibullz because of their low profile.

At home, I have a second set of Howard Leight earmuffs because they are so great for letting someone use them. Especially if I am teaching them so that I don’t have to yell. Of course, I also have kid-sized earmuffs for my children.

Upgrades for Your Shooting Ear Protection

Just because you have hearing protection doesn’t mean you can’t make it even better. Here’s a must-have accessory that can up your game: gel pads for electronic earmuffs.

If you’re thinking about upgrading, these gel pads are a game-changer. They might seem a bit unconventional on my Howard Leights, but trust me, the comfort they offer is phenomenal. They fit snugly around my ears and even work well with shooting glasses without pressing uncomfortably against my head. For long shooting sessions, that kind of comfort is priceless.

What really impressed me is how these pads are designed to work seamlessly with eyewear. This not only boosts comfort but also helps create a better seal around your ears. The result? Up to 10 decibels less noise leakage, which can make a big difference over time.

These pads are also built to last. They can handle extreme temperatures from negative 100 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, though I don’t shoot in those extremes. Still, their durability is reassuring.

Keeping them clean is simple—just wipe them with warm, soapy water. Avoid submerging them though, due to the tiny air hole at the bottom.

Compared to pricier options, Noisefighters Gel Filled Ear Pads hold their own. For regular shooting, they perform brilliantly and offer great value. If you’re serious about your ear protection, these pads are a smart investment. They’re comfortable, durable, and could be a real asset for your hearing.

When it comes to protecting my electronic earmuffs, the carrying case I found is highly effective. It not only safeguards them but also keeps my gear in good condition and ready for use at the shooting range.

The case combines durability with a touch of flexibility. The strong nylon cover and hard shell offer robust protection while allowing just enough give to ensure my earmuffs are safeguarded without applying excessive pressure.

Inside, the microfiber lining is a thoughtful touch, gently protecting my earmuffs from scratches and bumps. The mesh pocket for spare batteries or cables is a practical addition, keeping everything organized and easily accessible.

I tested it with my Howard Leight earmuffs, and they fit snugly and securely. It took a little adjustment to get them positioned just right, but once settled, they were perfectly in place. Closing the case was easy, and the reassuring click gave me confidence that my gear was well-protected.

What truly won me over was the peace of mind it provided. I no longer worry about my earmuffs getting damaged amidst my other shooting gear. It’s a small investment with significant benefits, ensuring my hearing protection stays in top shape.

Buyer’s Guide to Shooting Ear Protection

There are quite a few different types of earmuffs and ear protection devices available on the market. Some can be incredibly cheap and portable, like the tiny disposable plugs you put inside your ears. Other styles can cover your entire ear and are more comfortable when wearing. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide on what to buy.

Well, in this section, we’ll talk about the factors affecting hearing loss, the specs you need to pay attention to, and the types of headphones on the market.

Things to Consider

• What Types of Hearing Protection Should You Get?
• What Noise Reduction Do You Need?

What Types of Hearing Protection Should You Get?

There are three main types of hearing protection, and each has its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at each type to see which best fits your needs and review the key specifications to help you make the right choice.

Earplugs

Earplugs for noise protection come either as disposable earplugs or as reusable earplugs.

Disposable earplugs are by far the cheapest ear protection you can buy. These tiny plugs can also be very effective, with some offering 30dB and better noise reduction. They’re usually made out of some kind of foam or moldable polymer. In order to get the most use out of them, you squish them into a small cylinder, which you then insert into your ear canal. The plugs then “re-inflate” to form a tight molded seal to your ear channel.

But there are permanent earplugs as well. These are made out of a heavy-duty polymer. Some are made to be specially molded for better comfort like the Decibullz while others like the Tri-Flanges are not.

On the downside, earplugs might not fit all ear channels, and they will muffle out all sounds. Some people are also allergic to the materials, and others find them to be chafe.

Earmuffs

Earmuffs provide excellent ear protection and typically feature a headband with foam pads that cover the entire ear. They can be worn either on top of your head or behind it. Earmuffs are generally affordable, comfortable, and highly durable.

The only downside to this type of ear protection is that earmuffs can be heavy and bulky. They can also feel hot and sweaty in warm weather. Also, earmuffs often don’t provide as much ear protection as earplugs might offer. This means you need to be careful when buying these to ensure you get sufficient protection.

Earmuffs With Sound-circuit Technology

Sound-circuit technology earmuffs are designed to screen out loud blasts of the firearm but allow you to hear the natural sounds around you. This is an incredible feature for shooters because the loud and damaging noise of gunfire is muffled, but you can still hear your instructors or friends on the gun range as they speak.

These earmuffs are usually quite comfortable, relatively compact, and can be accompanied by a huge variety of special features, such as Bluetooth. These electronic earmuffs come with a range of features and capabilities, and many are surprisingly affordable. That being said, just keep in mind that the main downside of these earmuffs is that they need batteries.

Specs to keep in mind when choosing electronic ear protection

When choosing electronic hearing protection, you should keep the following specs in mind:

Microphone Direction and Number:

To hear softer sounds with electronic headsets, microphones, and internal speakers are essential. Ideally, you’ll find one microphone/speaker set per ear cup, arranged directionally. For range, hunting, or practice, one set per cup works well. However, in active combat or tactical situations, two sets (one per cup) may be preferred.

More important than the number of microphones is their type. Directional mics help you pinpoint where amplified sounds are coming from, while high-gain mics are more sensitive and pick up more sound, though they can also capture more static and feedback.

Attack Time:

Attack time is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of electronic headsets. It refers to the response time of the headset in reacting to noises above a certain threshold. For example, if a headset blocks noises above 82 decibels, you’ll want to know how quickly it starts blocking those sounds. A shorter attack time means less delay in protecting your ears from loud noises and improves communication with those around you. The faster the attack time, the better the headset handles sudden, loud sounds.

What Noise Reduction Do You Need?

There are three factors that impact hearing loss: distance, time, and decibel level. Distance matters because the further you are from the muzzle, the less intense the sound. Time is a factor because gun blasts are short, not continuous, so even if you’re firing multiple rounds quickly, the initial blast is what counts for ear protection.

Your ears can only handle noise up to 140 dB before you risk immediate damage. For example, a Glock handgun can hit around 162 dB, and a Remington 700LTR can reach 167 dB. Without proper ear protection, even a basic handgun can cause instant, permanent hearing loss.

To protect your ears, you need to bring the noise level down to 140 dB or less, with 120 dB being even better. When you’re shopping for shooting ear protection, you’ll see Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) instead of decibel levels. Keep this in mind to make sure you’re getting the right protection.

Recommended Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) for Shooting Protection

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a unit of measurement used to determine the effectiveness of hearing protection devices to decrease sound exposure within a given workspace. In order for a protective device to get an NRR, it must be tested and approved by the American National Standards (ANSI) in accordance with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration.

The higher the NRR number, the greater the noise reduction will be.

You should look for ear protection that offers a noise reduction rate of at least 22. A noise reduction of 30 is ideal, especially if you are operating louder and larger weapons.

To be on the safe side, you can use the following NRR levels to determine the best fit for the type of gun you are using.

Lower caliber handguns – minimum NRR rating: 22
Larger bore handguns and long guns – minimum NRR rating: 25
Large caliber handguns, larger long guns, and shotguns – minimum NRR rating: 27

This isn’t to say that you’re unsafe shooting a large caliber handgun with NRR 22 headphones, but if you were to and wanted to be on the safer side, or perhaps you’d be doing this for a prolonged period of time, then you might want to double your hearing protection to increase your NRR rating.

Conclusion

Protecting your hearing is critical when you are out shooting because once it’s lost, it is extremely hard to get back. Hopefully, I’ve left you with enough knowledge to get started, and remember, always wear hearing protection when you pull the trigger.

If you’re here looking for protective gear to stay safe while shooting, I also recommend checking out our article on the best shooting eye protection as well.

FAQs

What are the different types of shooting ear protection available?

Shooting ear protection comes in various forms, including ear plugs and ear muffs. Ear plugs, typically made of foam or other materials, fit into the ear canal to block out noise. Ear muffs, with padded ear cups, cover the entire ear to provide noise reduction.

What is the purpose of electronic hearing protection?

Electronic hearing protection is designed to offer both hearing protection and the ability to amplify ambient sounds. They utilize microphones and speakers to allow wearers to hear conversations and range commands while still safeguarding their ears from loud noises like gunshot noises.

How do noise reduction ratings impact ear protection?

Noise reduction ratings, often abbreviated as NRR, indicate the level of noise reduction provided by ear protection devices. Higher NRR values signify greater noise reduction, offering better protection against loud sounds such as those found in shooting ranges.

Are there any specific features to consider for maximum hearing protection?

For maximum hearing protection, look for features like electronic earmuffs or ear plugs with high noise reduction ratings. Additionally, features such as gel pads, properly fitting ear cups, and adjustable volume control in electronic protection can contribute to enhanced protection against loud noises.

What should I consider when choosing ear protection for indoor shooting?

For indoor shooting, opt for ear protection with a high Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) to handle the increased noise levels. Both electronic and passive muffs with high NRR are effective for indoor ranges.

How does wearing ear protection prevent hearing damage?

Properly chosen and worn ear protection creates a barrier against loud noises, reducing the impact of loud sounds on the inner ear. This helps prevent hearing loss and potential permanent hearing damage caused by exposure to gunfire or other loud noises at shooting ranges.