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“WHAT DID YOU SAY?!?”
Protect your hearing…and still hear important range commands.
Tested Shooting Ear Protection MuffsWe’ve got the 411 on the best shooting ear protection from affordable passive to electronic earmuffs and even in-ear options that allow you to hear talking but filters out loud & harmful gunshot sounds.
Because whether you’re a beginner getting geared up for the range or a seasoned Range Officer…you want to protect your hearing.
The percussive vibrations of each gunshot actually kill vital little hairs deep in your inner ear. And that can open the door to a high pitch ringing or humming noise that can last forever. Tinnitus anyone?
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These are the tried and true picks from our team with thousands of hours at the range as shooters, competitors, law enforcement, military, and range officers.
The Pew Pew Tactical TeamThis article is the culmination of all our knowledge and what ear pro we would tell our closest friends and family to get.
We specifically chose options based on:
You’ll see NRR (Noise Reduction Ratings, used in the US) and SNR (Single Number Ratings, used in Europe) in dB (decibels). These numbers are lab tested average sound reduction values provided by a device.
Higher is better but you make some tradeoffs with different designs. We tested against close proximity to large caliber rifles and compensated guns for a subjective test as well.
NRR and SNR aren’t directly comparable but SNR is a little higher than NRR for the same level of protection.
If it isn’t comfortable you’ll get a headache or end up adjusting them…just in time during an extra loud burst of shooting.
Circle of Shooting EarmuffsWe’ve worn all of these for competitions (6+ hours) as competition Range Officers, which means we’re extra close to the blasts.
Guns and ammo are expensive already.
We keep your budget in mind for our choices and have some favorites all the way from disposable foam earplugs to $50 best bang-for-the-buck versions to $300 professional grade electronic earmuffs.
We segment the options based on wear style…from passive options to electronic earmuffs and now the newest in-ear electronic options.
Pros
NRR protection level of 25dB
Thin profile allows for good cheekwelds
Great job of blocking out shots and amplifying speech
Cons
A bit tight in the beginning but stretches out
My current go-to Editor’s Overall Pick goes to the AXIL TRACKR for an affordable and performing electronic headset.
AXIL TRACKRElectronic ear protection cuts out harmful shooting sounds but amplifies regular sounds like people talking.
Great for hearing important commands at the range and animal sounds if you’re hunting.
Our entire team tested out the TRACKR and found the padding and strap to be a bit tight out of the box but very comfortable once you stretched them out a little bit.
But the electronics were what really performed.
At the range, they did a great job of blocking out shots and amplifying speech. When I tested them out in my home office, I was somewhat surprised.
I was able to hear a conversation in another room, a bird tweeting outside, and my own breathing. AXIL’s background in hearing aids shines through in the amplification.
NRR comes in at 25dB, which is great for thin profile electronic earmuffs and enough for a day at the range unless you go into really big boy caliber ranges.
Price is $64, which is slightly higher than other budget options, but AXIL has a great deal of buying 2 for $99.
There’s also a Bluetooth version rated at 27dB where you can also enjoy tunes with a paired device. Separate volume switches allow you to dial the ambient noise or music to your listening pleasure. You’ll choose it at the bottom of the page with an extra $30 per headphone.
What do you think about AXIL?
4.97/5
(1648)
Pros
Comes with gel ear pads for comfort
On/Off indicator light
28dB SNR protection
Hardcase included
Combo packs with ballistic glasses
Cons
Needs some stretching out before use
The Pew Pew Tactical team brings you our own brand, ShellShock Protection, that comes from our hundreds of hours shooting each year.
We’ve spec-ed our earmuffs and glasses to emphasize comfort and protection.
ShellShock EXO PRO, Light OnGel pads come standard on all our ear pro…a feature you only find on $200+ options. These pads help us stay comfy during our hours-long competitions and testing cycles.
28dB SNR and a .5ms attack time keep your hearing intact…all the while amplifying sounds you do want to hear such as your buddies and range commands.
Plus for our launch special we have Free Shipping on everything and only TX tax.
EXO PRO Electronic units are $99 but we also have a 30% off launch special for our Premium Eyes & Ears Combo Packs.
These include our ANSI-rated Z87.1+ Switch ballistic glasses that come with both Smoke & Clear lenses for shooting both indoors and out.
ShellShock Switch, Double Lenses
Pros
High NRR (noise reduction rating) of 32dB
Small, lightweight, and disposable
Affordable
Cons
Requires compression and insertion into ear
Blocks out noise indiscriminately
These are the most affordable of the bunch and really protective at 32dB NRR (noise reduction rating).
Great for beginners starting out in shooting sports or for doubling up on ear protection under earmuffs if you’re next to really loud guns.
They take up hardly any space so I always have some in my range bag in case I forgot my larger ones or I have guests.
Remember to fully compress them before sticking them into your ears.
L to R: Badly Inserted, Semi Inserted, Properly Inserted; from NIOSHHowever it’s not all roses…sometimes foam earplugs work TOO well and block out things you want to hear.
And if you have smaller or larger ear canals compared to the average person it might not feel or work that great either.
There are tons of other foam options, but I would stay away from pure cylindrical ones…those are not very comfy:
Most Protective Passive
3M Peltor Optime
25.00
at Amazon
Prices accurate at time of writing
25.00
at Amazon
Prices accurate at time of writing
Available Coupons
25% off all OAKLEY products
- OAKLEY25Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
High protection with 30dB NRR
Convenient to put on and take off repeatedly
One size usually fits all
Can pair with earplugs inside
Inexpensive & reusable
Cons
Bulkier than other options
Can interfere with proper rifle cheek weld
Issues with safety or prescription glasses and proper ear seal
Traditional “passive” earmuffs come on a headband and have foam pads that cover and form a seal around the entire ear.
The Optime 105 on the left is super protective with 30dB NRR but is also quite bulky.
Optime 105 Ear Muffs (L) and Shotgunner (R)It’s not heavy, but it will seriously cramp your cheekweld situation for rifles and shotguns because its large size will hit the stock and get in the way.
Great if you’re starting out and shooting handguns…and especially if you’re at an indoor range where the sound reverberates more than outdoors.
Best In-Ear Electronic
AXIL XCOR
229.00
at AXIL
Prices accurate at time of writing
229.00
at AXIL
Prices accurate at time of writing
Available Coupons
25% off all OAKLEY products
- OAKLEY25Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
29dB SNR Rating
Bluetooth enabled
No cords
Cons
Requires careful fitment
Say goodbye to bulky over-the-ear muffs!
These are the next generation of hearing protection and let’s you protect your ears, enhance the things you want to hear, and still give you a great cheekweld.
Using the XCOR, I didn’t miss having a cord on the back of my neck or large earmuffs in the way.
The XCOR comes with a recharging case, USB cable, and a packet of different-sized foam plugs. You’ll want to spend some time finding the right size.
Too small, you won’t get the protection you need, too big, they’ll be uncomfortable after a while.
I’ve used these for a few months now, and they seem to do a good job at both protecting me from gunshots and allowing me to hear my team. I like that I can turn active hearing on or off with a touch. I also appreciate being able to listen to music and answer calls if needed.
On a recent flight, I used these to drown out the sounds of a crying baby and listen to soothing music. Thank you 29db SNR!
Pros
Comfortable with gel pads standard
Better build quality
Easy access buttons
Cons
22dB NRR might require doubling up for rifles
Harder to change out batteries
Most of my fellow competitors wear MSA Sordins for their comfort and sound quality.
I finally caved after I became a range officer for a couple of competitions. That meant constant blasts for hours while still needing to hear everything.
I simply asked my competition buddies, “what are the best electronic ear muffs” and the MSA’s got the majority of votes.
They already have built-in gel caps, and there are a couple of colors. I, of course went with the camo…
They are comfy for hours with their gel caps, have easily accessible button controls, great sound cutoff, and compression, and allow for earplugs if the decent 22db NRR doesn’t cut it.
The quality of the sound is also great. There’s no buzzing when things are quiet, it seems the cutoff is faster when there’s a loud noise, and voices sound better.
However, one annoying thing is that one of the batteries tends to get jammed and you’ll need to carefully knock the entire unit if you want to change them.
Plus, they can attach to ballistic helmets and comms if that’s your thing…however you’ll need to crack open the glued housing.
Pros
Easier to mount on helmets
3 protection modes
26dB NRR of protection
Can be converted to a comms set
Cons
More expensive
What I have on my night vision setup…
Safariland Liberator HP 2.0, OnVery comfortable with gel cups and great simultaneous blocking of loud gunshots while still amplifying sounds I want to ear (eg. range commands).
These are much easier to mount onto helmets compared to the Sordins since they don’t require opening anything up…you just need the Unity SARA clips and Unity Mark 2 Rail Kit which lets you fold it back when not in use.
Safariland Liberator HP 2.0 on Helmet
Pros
23dB NRR of protection
Can be upgraded with gel pads
Slim profile
Cons
No AUX in
These Walker’s look great and performance is on-par for their price points. A good solution for beginner electronic ear pro if you didn’t pick up the AXIL’s above.
They are head-to-head against the Impact Sports (with one more dB of NRR).
And keep in mind the Walkers don’t have AUX-in if that’s important to you. For myself…I’ve never had the need to use AUX-in since I’m not running music in or comms. I prefer to be fully ready to hear range commands.
And, oh yes…they also have access to Upgraded Gel Pads which make it so much comfier and creates a better seal against your shooting glasses.
Pros
Great reviews and well-known
Slim profile
AUX in
Cons
Lower 22dB NRR protection
Could be more comfortable
These are the OG affordable electronic ear pro.
Howard Leight Impact SportThey are super popular for a reason. They are affordable, and they work…39K reviews on Amazon with a 4.7-star average.
Tons of both beginners and advanced shooters are still rocking them.
It’s the first pair of electronic earmuffs people get when they are tired of yelling “WHAT?!?” when someone speaks to them at the range.
Affordable, decent protection at 22dB NRR, slim for rifle/shotgun shooting, and reasonably comfortable. Plus, they come with AUX-in for devices.
Best Passive Cheekweld
3M Shotgunner II
25.00
at Amazon
Prices accurate at time of writing
25.00
at Amazon
Prices accurate at time of writing
Available Coupons
25% off all OAKLEY products
- OAKLEY25Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
Affordable
Slimmer profile
24dB of NRR protection
Cons
Might need to double up protection with louder guns
For going slim…I really like the 3M Shotgunner.
I painted mine over, and it served me well for years, especially when I wanted something simple and slim for pistol shooting with a little bit of rifle thrown in.
Passive Shooting Muffs, Side (L to R: Shotgunner, Optime 105, Optime 101)It’s decent protection at the base 24dB model, but you can always double up if it gets really loud with compensated rifles.
Comfort is average, but I found it to be fine for a few hours if I can take it off my ears when they call for a cold range to fix targets. The earcup material can get a little sticky from sweat so I usually take the down time to wipe them off as well.
Pros
Two levels of protection
24dB NRR with filter cap
Affordable
Sized
Cons
No rating for filter cap removed
Want something reusable that gives you two levels of hearing protection?
Enter Surefire EP3 Sonic Defenders which have “filter caps” you can choose to have in or out.
Having it open gives you still decent protection against gunshots but allows you to hear range commands and regular talking.
Having them in gives you a decent 24dB NRR of protection. They fit very well but keep in mind there are sizes…here I am comfy with Mediums above.
Great for outdoor ranges and “normal” calibers…but if you’re shooting indoors or shooting magnums, I’d double-up with these inside and then earmuffs over.
Pros
Lightweight and out of the way
Bluetooth capable
29db SNR
Cons
Requires careful fitment
We tried the first generation of GS Extremes and were not impressed. But…the newest generation is great.
AXIL GS Extreme 2.0However, we must note that you have to really fit the ear with the foam plugs.
They come in a variety of sizes, and so far, the three of us that tested them could find a size that worked.
Another note is that the smaller silicone plugs are just for music…not for blasting guns.
Now you’ll have no excuse to have a good cheekweld…but make sure to put some sunblock on your ears (we learned the hard way).
As for price, they are decent at $129 for one pair, but Axil currently has a great deal of 2 pairs for $199.
Everyone always talks about the middle ear. That’s mainly the eardrum and those three little bones with cool names: the hammer, anvil, and stirrup.
But what really causes hearing damage though is what happens in the inner ear.
Anatomy of the earInside, picture a spiral staircase. Only this passage is just 2 millimeters wide and maybe 30 millimeters long, all coiled up.
Sound races along the outside of the staircase, but in the middle are the organ of Corti (yup, sounds ominous) and the basilar membrane.
Both are long and thin, with the organ resting on the membrane. All along this little assembly are tiny little hairs. They register sound and transmit it through the auditory nerve to your brain.
Daniel Defense DDM4ISR Range ShootingBut — and here’s the kicker — exposure to an intense sound that’s 140 dB or more can make segments of the organ of Corti separate from the basilar membrane. Portions of it actually tear away and float around.
Sounds you hear all the time can have a huge effect on your hearing.So you end up with an inflamed lesion that causes an accompanying chemical reaction. Hairs die. Scar tissue forms, and even with rest, the tiny hairs typically continue to degenerate. A cascade effect takes over, and the entire auditory central nervous system goes deaf.
Researchers suspect that tinnitus — that high pitch noise inside your head that won’t go away — “begins as a result of the brain trying to regain the ability to hear the sound frequencies it has lost by turning up the signals of neighboring frequencies.”
One more thing: noise exposure is cumulative. Each loud sound is killing ear hairs, so you need to be thinking about total exposure over the course of days, weeks, and years.
FN502 ShootingReady for some hearing protection yet?
Pregnant Women, Take Note
If you’re looking to go to the range while you’re pregnant, there are some special considerations that you should know if before going.
Check out our complete article Shooting While Pregnant, for more details!
First of all, forget cotton balls, tissue, packing peanuts, or my personal old-shooter favorite, cigarette filters.
While they are better than nothing, they are also next to nothing. At best, you’ll get a reduction of maybe 7dB.
Cotton balls…just don’tEffective choices for hearing protection come down to
earplugs
earmuffs
combinations of the two and
some techy alternatives with sound-circuit technology.
There are so many options, there’s no reason not to protect your ear hairs. From neon foam-on-strings to high-tech headphones, there’s something for everyone.
What you should be looking for is a minimum noise reduction of 15dB, but 30dB is preferable. Pair a good set of plugs with muffs, and you might shut out another 10 to 15dB or so.
Gun Decibel Chart (Photo: Silencer Central)You know the load you like to shoot, but a conservative 140dB is a common figure for an average muzzle blast. A .22 will be less, a magnum more.
With quality protection, you can start approaching a range that’s still loud — as in chainsaw or sandblast loud — but may be up to 1,000 times quieter.
Higher is always better but aim for something at least 20dB to 30dB NRR.
To protect your hearing, always wear proper ear protection with a high Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). Eye protection is also highly recommended when shooting.
An unsuppressed gunshot is varies between 140dB (.22LR) to 167dB (.308 Win).
A Glock 17 firing 9mm ammo is 162dB
To sum it all up…
Let me know if there’s any that we missed. And if you’re looking for Best Shooting Glasses or Best Shooting Gloves, click those links to see our other hands-on reviews.
March 13, 2024 – Added ShellShock Protection and Safariland options. Removed Gold Ears and Impact Pros. Added information to Sordins.
November 15, 2023 – Updated list, added additional information, and fact-checked by Editor-in-Chief.
I have some neighbors with motorcycles....A couple Harleys and some other motorcycle I'm not sure the brand....They start them up....and the instant they press the ignition and the motor starts there is from silence to this sudden loud THUNK which will spook anybody out of their sleep....Then they let the motorcycles idle which is loud in and of itself....And then they just rev rev rev rev.....For as long as 15 to 30 minutes....At the worst times....Early in the morning....really late at night....I have always had super sensitive hearing....And they roll their bikes just outside their garage and start them up....30 feet away is my bedroom window and the wall borders all 3 bedrooms so there is no escaping getting woken out of sleep....I have found some great and comfortable earplugs which I wear pretty much 24/7 because the sound of things such as cars and trucks driving down the road is just so loud to my ears....I wish they had earplugs that were stronger and block out everything....But apparently not....if a person wants complete silence apparently the only option is blast loud music until you go so deaf you need hearing aids to listen to someone talking to you across the table....Anyways....I needed more sound blocking than my really nice and comfortable earplugs because I'm getting blasted with like 120 decibels from these people and their Harleys....which jolts anybody out of deep sleep....I have tried a few of these over the ear muffs and these seem to do a pretty good job, the first pair was I think maybe unbranded....They worked good but soon my ears hurt because they didn't have enough room so the top and bottom of my ears would rub and get sore....I couldn't wear them very long plus they would catch some hair in the side parts that adjust the fit, I tried another brand something like pro for sho.... Or something like that....They work okay....But they were "Made low profile thin" like when somebody buys something to protect their hearing they are going to care about something like that....They worked okay, but before long they seemed to be blocking less and less sound....So I went looking for something else....I decided to try these....They seem to really be doing a good job so far.....Sure they are a tad bulky but I'm not looking for style points....I'm trying to get peace and quiet my hearing vs neighbors Harleys....These so far seem to be doing just what I need....They are also quite comfortable too....They don't make my ears or sides or top of my head sore...They seem to be blocking out noise just like I need if I am going to get sleep....The other brand soon started blocking less and less sound, unfortunately..... Hopefully these will last and won't also start losing sound blocking abilities.....I wonder about how it's listed as 37Db but then it also says it meats the standard max of 34Db.....So is it 37 or 34? It seems to say it's both, which is odd....But so far.....So good.....Peace and quiet even with the jerks next door who make tons of noise with their Harleys at all hours....I like the fact these are so far very comfortable to fit....Even to sleep in..... Hopefully these hold up well over time....At this point, I definitely recommend these, they are big, yes, but they block more sound because they create a good seal and they are comfortable to wear, even for sleep.