If you are heading out to the shooting range, there is a lot of gear that you may be thinking of investing in. First and foremost, you need to think of safety, and this is especially true for your ears.
This means that one of your first investments should be good ear protection. You need to look for an item that not only protects your hearing but also allows you to carry on conversations with ease.
Also See: police earpiece
There are a lot of models out there that offer this level of performance, so choosing just one may give you a headache. Never fear, we have you covered! Below, we have chosen the top three best ear protection for shooting options.
Contents
Comparison Chart
Best Ear Protection for Shooting Reviews
Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Hearing Protector
No doubt, it gets loud when you're shooting, so you need to have a headset that helps cut out all of that. With this innovatively designed option from Peltor, you certainly get just that.
Review
Guns produce quite the racket, so protecting your ears will need a little attention and care. The team at Peltor understands this and has crafted ear protection that comes fitted with the following features:
- Noise reduction rating – 26dB
- Compatible with Bluetooth
- Built-in dynamic suppression system
- Able to isolate voice from background
- Built-in durable recessed microphones
- Runs on AA batteries
- Low profile ear cups
- Auto shut-off feature
There is a lot to love about this product from one of the big names in ear protection. The noise cancellation is optimized and offers you a great noise reduction rating. This is done without affecting your ability to hear voices. This makes it easy to use and comfortable.
Plus, you will still have the flexibility to have conversations with your fellow range buddies. Pair it with your Bluetooth and listen to your favorite jams or stay in touch via notifications.
There are a few things that we find less than stellar, and both are directly related to comfort. The first is the earcup adjustability. This is limited and will definitely be a problem for some. The headband is also a point of contention, as it is not padded.
PROS
CONS
Pro For Sho 34dB Shooting Ear Protection
Our next entry is a specially designed pair of earmuffs that are perfect for those looking for protection. It offers a lightweight frame to maximize noise cancellation.
Review
Manufacturing an earmuff that will optimize your protection comes down to two key factors - noise reduction and comfort. With this model, these two factors are addressed by including the following features:
- Noise reduction level – 34dB
- Crafted with durable, lightweight material
- Comes in a wide range of colors
- Crafted with a padded headband
With ultimate noise reduction, this entry offers the best reduction rate of all three items we are covering. That makes it one of the best options available and perhaps the best option on our list.
This is especially true if you plan on shooting guns that are known for their bang. Besides offering superior protection, the design of these earmuffs is lightweight and compact, which elevates their portability.
Once again, we see a disadvantage focused on the comfort of the product. The headband of these earmuffs is not very customizable. There is a lack of adjustability that could be very annoying for some. There are also some fit issues. Many feel that the earmuffs are just too tight and may be bad for long shooting sessions.
PROS
CONS
ACTFIRE Shooting Ear Protection
Our last entry is one that offers everything gun enthusiasts look for in protection. Optimized for high performance, this model is sure to keep you safe from any unwanted sounds.
Review
The team at ACTFIRE has strived to deliver quality and style. This item that is designed for earmuff protection follows through on their goal by including the following features:
- Paint helps protect from damage and UV
- Comes with a vertically designed volume control button
- Noise reduction level – 23dB
- Aux port for music
- Built-in omnidirectional mic
Quality! It starts with the materials used and ends with how you put those materials together. That is how you end up with such a great set of earmuffs. The materials used are lightweight and durable, which makes them rugged enough to stand up to whatever you throw at it.
Then, this product begins to find its footing on our list with the inclusion of systems and parts that optimize hearing protection. All of that is wrapped in a nice, clean design that, though it has nothing to do with the efficiency of the piece, is a nice touch.
Even with all of that praise, there are still a few things that need to be addressed. The first is the fit. Though it does loosen with wear, they can be a bit tight fresh out of the box. Also, the unit is powered by standard batteries, which could affect the length of use depending on the type you use.
PROS
CONS
FINAL VERDICT
In the end, the option you choose comes down to your preference. In our mind, if you are looking for superior noise reduction, the best choice is the Pro For Sho model we discussed above. However, if you want comfort and a decent level of noise reduction, then the ACTFIRE is the way to go.
No matter which of the best ear protection options you go with, you will be well protected and ready for a fun-filled day of target practice.