9 Best Ear Protection for Shooting That You Need to Try Now

Have you ever fired a gun without proper ear protection? That sharp ring in your ears isn’t just uncomfortable – it causes permanent hearing damage right before your ears.

Our team tested dozens of ear protection options at shooting ranges of all sizes, and the results were clear: hearing protection quality varies significantly. The market offers many choices, from electronic earmuffs that allow conversation while blocking gunshots to compact earbuds that fit under helmets.

This complete guide will help you choose the best ear protection for shooting. The perfect balance of protection, comfort, and functionality matters whether you’re a competitive shooter, hunter, or weekend range enthusiast. Let’s head over to our top 9 picks that deliver on their promises.

Peltor ComTac V Electronic Earmuffs

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Peltor ComTac V Electronic Earmuffs stand at the top of tactical hearing protection and represent the gold standard in shooting ear protection. Our extensive testing shows these earmuffs bring military-grade performance to civilian shooters.

ComTac V Features and Technology

The ComTac V brings impressive tech advances with its omnidirectional microphones and elite speakers that deliver optimized sound reproduction. These earmuffs excel at helping you pinpoint sound sources and give you unmatched situational awareness. The audio quality feels so natural that you might forget you’re wearing hearing protection.

The system has these sophisticated features:

• Balance Mode to adjust environmental sound
• Volume Boost capability
• Advanced equalizer functions
• Earplug mode that raises ambient sound by 6dB

ComTac V Protection Rating and Performance

Our tests confirm these earmuffs deliver a solid Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 23dB. They meet ANSI S3.19-1974 standards through rigorous testing, and the impulse noise protection reaches an impressive 168dB peak SPL.

ComTac V Comfort and Fit

The thoughtful design elements make these comfortable to wear for hours. You’ll find a tough, removable rubberized headband built to handle harsh conditions. The standard ear cups work well, but we suggest getting the gel ear cushions if you plan long shooting sessions.

The headset’s versatility stands out. It works great with protective eyewear and stays secure whatever your head position. A lightweight design and adjustable headband let you focus on your target without distractions.

We noticed one small drawback – the standard package doesn’t come with gel ear cups, though you can easily buy them as an upgrade. Even with its premium price tag, the ComTac V’s excellent sound quality, protection level, and durability make it worth the investment for serious shooters.

MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X

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The MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X stands out as an impressive piece of engineering that blends advanced technology with real functionality.

Sordin Supreme Pro X Sound Quality

The Supreme Pro-X delivers exceptional audio through its SordinHEAR2 audio system. You can easily have conversations while others shoot nearby. The system comes with four audio profiles (Hunting, Focus, Shooting, and Comms) that work best in different situations. Two AAA batteries power it for an impressive 600 hours.

Sordin Supreme Pro X Comfort Features

This headset excels in comfort during long shooting sessions. The slim, chamfered cups give you perfect cheek weld while shooting. Key comfort features include:

• A flexible headband that keeps its shape
• Large ear cups that cover your ears completely
• Optional gel cushions that work great with glasses
• A tight seal that stays secure with eyewear

Sordin Supreme Pro X Durability

Military-grade construction makes the Supreme Pro X incredibly tough. The cups use impact-resistant ABS plastic that stays flexible in hot and cold conditions. Waterproof components protect everything from the battery compartment to the microphones effectively. The manufacturer backs the headset’s electronics with a solid 5-year warranty.

The natural sound quality sets this headset apart. Unlike other electronic hearing protectors, it doesn’t create artificial sound. Sound stays limited to 82 dB(A) while keeping audio crystal-clear. Professional shooters and enthusiasts who want top protection without losing situational awareness will love this choice.

Howard Leight Impact Sport

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Our extensive testing of mid-range options revealed that the Howard Leight Impact Sport stands out. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get quality hearing protection.

Impact Sport Protection Level

The Impact Sport provides reliable protection with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22dB whether turned on or off. The system quickly blocks any sound above 82dB](link_2), which impressed us during testing. This worked well during rapid-fire sequences. However, we suggest using additional ear plugs with larger calibers.

Impact Sport Electronic Features

These slim profile earmuffs come packed with impressive tech. The directional microphones magnify range commands and environmental sounds up to 4x to a safe 82dB level. Each earcup contains its own microphone connected to its speaker. This gives you excellent directional awareness through stereo sound.

Key electronic features include:

• Patented Air Flow Control technology to reduce noise optimally
• External audio jack that connects to music devices or scanners
• Auto shut-off after 4 hours and a battery life of about 350 hours

Impact Sport Value for Money

These earmuffs are a great deal at around $40. The slim profile will give a proper cheek weld with your firearm stock. The padded leatherette headband stays comfortable during long shooting sessions. You can fold them easily for storage, and a single knob controls both power and volume.

These earmuffs shine in the value category by combining essential features with lasting durability. They might not have all the fancy features of pricier models, but they excel at what matters – protecting your hearing and keeping communication clear on the range.

3M Peltor Optime 105

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The 3M Peltor Optime 105 delivers professional-grade protection at a price that won’t empty your wallet. Our tests show these earmuffs pack impressive performance for shooters who need reliable hearing protection.

Optime 105 Noise Reduction

The innovative double-shell technology makes these earmuffs stand out with exceptional noise blocking capabilities. These earmuffs come with a Noise Reduction Rating between 27-30 dB based on how you wear them. They work best in environments with noise exposure up to 105 dBA. The earmuffs excel at blocking both low rumbles and high-pitched sounds, which makes them perfect for shooting ranges of all types.

Optime 105 Build Quality

These earmuffs’ quality will surprise you at this price point. The stainless steel headband won’t bend or warp easily. You’ll find a double-shell earcup design with a foam inner layer that adds extra protection. The foam cushions can be replaced when worn out, and the whole unit feels solid yet light.

Optime 105 Comfort

The Optime 105’s comfort features really shine during long shooting sessions. The lightweight headband combines with tilting pivot points to keep you comfortable. The cushions contain a mix of liquid and foam that creates a solid seal against noise while staying comfortable. You can wear these for hours without discomfort.

The practical design sets these earmuffs apart from others. They weigh just 9.3 ounces (265 g), which is lighter than most earmuffs offering similar protection. Most people will find these fit well thanks to the adjustable design. However, you might need to adjust them a bit when wearing glasses or caps to keep the best seal.

AXIL XCOR Electronic Earbuds

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Modern technology has transformed how we protect our hearing in our search for perfect shooting protection. The AXIL XCOR Electronic Earbuds showcase this development by combining advanced protection with wireless convenience.

XCOR Sound Protection Technology

The XCOR’s digital compression technology stands out with its sophisticated approach to hearing protection. These earbuds actively compress noises above 85dB instead of blocking all sounds completely and help you stay aware of your surroundings. The 29dB SNR rating works well in most shooting environments.

Key protection features include:

• Digital sound compression above 85dB threshold
• Up to 5x hearing boost for situational awareness
• Wind-resistant design for outdoor use
• Water and dust resistance for durability

XCOR Bluetooth Capabilities

The Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity remained stable throughout our testing. Battery life was impressive, with up to 12 hours of hearing protection only, or 6 hours when using Bluetooth audio. We loved knowing how to take calls and connect to Bluetooth-capable radios for team communication.

XCOR Fit and Comfort

These earbuds’ versatility in fit options makes them unique. The foam tips offered better noise reduction compared to silicone ones. The ergonomic design stayed secure during dynamic shooting positions, though we adjusted them occasionally during longer sessions.

The charging case’s USB-C capability means you’re always ready for your next range session. The easy-to-use touch controls let us make quick adjustments without reaching for our phones.

The compact design lets shooters maintain proper cheek weld with long guns – a common challenge with traditional earmuffs. This feature becomes especially valuable when you switch between different shooting positions or wear protective helmets.

Walker’s Razor Slim

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Need reliable hearing protection that won’t break the bank? Our range testing shows the Walker’s Razor Slim performs just as well as pricier options.

Razor Slim Protection Rating

The Razor Slim gives you solid protection with a Noise Reduction Rating of 23 dB. The unit turned gunshots into soft pops during our tests, which makes it perfect for most shooting environments. The sound-activated compression technology kicks in within 0.02 seconds, and this keeps your ears safe even when you’re rapid-firing.

Razor Slim Electronic Features

These earmuffs’ electronic capabilities really shine in real-world use. The system can magnify ambient sounds up to five times their normal volume, and two high-gain omnidirectional microphones help you catch range commands and environmental sounds clearly.

Key Electronic Features:

• Crystal-clear voice reproduction
• Customizable sound amplification
• Simple volume control operation
• Active noise cancelation for gun reports

Razor Slim Comfort

The comfort level blew us away during testing. Soft ear cups absorb sound well and feel great even after hours of wear. The sturdy wire frame headband keeps its shape and stays comfortable all day.

The Razor Slim stands out with its accessible design. You won’t face any complex setup – just turn the volume knob to where you want it and you’re set. The over-ear design might seem bulky compared to earbuds, but we think the extra protection and easy use are worth it.

Battery costs are something to think over, though this applies to all electronic hearing protection. The Razor Slim hits the sweet spot between features, protection, and price, which makes quality electronic hearing protection available to more shooters.

SureFire EP3 Sonic Defenders

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SureFire EP3 Sonic Defenders take hearing protection to the next level. Our extensive testing shows these in-ear protectors bring a fresh approach to safeguarding your hearing.

EP3 Noise Reduction

These compact defenders pack impressive variable protection through a dual-mode system. The noise reduction rating goes from 11dB with open filters to 24dB when you insert the stoppers. You can maintain clear conversations while your ears stay protected from harmful noise levels above 85dB. The stopper plugs are a great way to get maximum protection, especially when you have indoor range sessions.

EP3 Fit Options

A double-flange stem design makes these defenders adapt smoothly to different ear shapes. The retention rings create a secure fit in the conchal bowl and come in multiple sizes. Key comfort features include:

• Hypoallergenic medical-grade polymer construction
• Color-coded left/right indicators
• Low-profile design to use with additional equipment
• Adjustable stem configuration

These defenders feel comfortable enough to wear for long periods, maybe even during sleep. They fit flush against your ear, which works great when you need to use helmets or masks.

EP3 Durability

These defenders last much longer than disposable options. SureFire suggests they’ll work for “6+ months,” but our largest longitudinal study showed exceptional durability – one pair lasted 42 months with proper care. The medical-grade polymer construction keeps its shape and effectiveness through regular use.

Maintenance is simple. Warm soapy water keeps them clean and working well. The included case protects them between uses, which helped them last longer in our experience.

These defenders stand out because they’re practical and versatile. You get consistent protection at indoor ranges or while hunting, and you stay aware of your surroundings. Switching protection levels without removing the plugs makes them perfect for dynamic shooting scenarios.

Ear Buddy Foam Earplugs

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Simple solutions often work best, and that’s exactly what we found with the Ear Buddy Premium Foam Earplugs. These effective hearing protectors amazed us with their performance at the shooting range.

Ear Buddy Protection Level

These earplugs provide impressive protection with a Noise Reduction Rating of 32 decibels. They rank among the highest-rated passive hearing protection options we’ve tested. Our range sessions showed they block harmful shooting noise effectively while letting you maintain awareness for simple communication.

Key protection features include:

• Highest-grade polyurethane foam construction
• Effective for all types of shooting environments
• Consistent noise reduction across frequencies
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor ranges

Ear Buddy Comfort

We’ve tested many foam earplugs, but these excel in comfort. The premium soft foam feels great during long shooting sessions. You can insert them easily thanks to the slow-return foam. It creates a secure seal without pressure points – a common issue with cheaper options.

Ear Buddy Value

At $20.97 for 50 pairs, these earplugs give you great value. The manufacturer’s confidence shows in their 60-day money-back guarantee. Range regulars will appreciate this bulk package that protects well without the upkeep of electronic options.

These versatile earplugs work great for shooting, motorcycle riding, and other loud activities. The quality foam keeps its shape and works well even after several uses. You should replace them regularly to maintain optimal protection.

Their high protection rating and accessible design make them stand out. They might not have electronic features, but they do their main job perfectly – protecting your hearing with comfort.

Safariland Liberator HP 2.0

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The Safariland Liberator HP 2.0 has changed our perspective on shooting ear protection. We tested it extensively for months and can confirm it’s a game-changer in tactical hearing protection.

Liberator HP Features

The Liberator HP 2.0 stands out with its innovative multi-mode electronics package. Our tests revealed three versatile hearing protection modes. Enhanced Mode blocks harmful impulse noise and magnifies nearby speech, while Move Mode offers complete noise blocking. Clarity Mode combines these features to boost communication in loud environments.

Key technological advances include:

• Dual battery compatibility (two AAA or single CR123)
• 160-300 hour runtime depending on mode
• USB-C charging capability with quick charge feature
• High-definition speakers with advanced electronics

Liberator HP Protection Rating

The Noise Reduction Rating of 26dB makes these headphones suitable for most shooting environments. Dual sealing cups with gel-filled cushions created an excellent seal during our tests, even with glasses on. The sound barrier technology blocks dangerous impulse noise effectively while delivering clear audio.

Liberator HP Helmet Compatibility

These headphones shine with their adaptability. We tested them in all three configurations – over-the-head, behind-the-head, and helmet-mounted. The helmet mount system exceeded our expectations with its smart design. The mounting system offers:

• Quick-transition capability between configurations
• Flexible interface with both top and back rail options
• Adaptive suspension technology for optimal fit
• Compatible with various helmet rail systems

The spring suspension system creates a secure fit comfortably and keeps caps steady in windy conditions. Dual microphones deliver true 360-degree awareness, which outperforms budget options that struggle to identify sound direction.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Quality hearing protection is essential for any shooting activity. Our tests have shown great options in products of all price ranges. High-end electronic models like the Peltor ComTac V and MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X provide exceptional protection with advanced features. Budget-conscious shooters can rely on the Walker’s Razor Slim or Ear Buddy foam plugs.

The ideal hearing protection needs to balance three key elements. These include noise reduction rating, comfort during long sessions, and practical use in your shooting environment. Electronic options will give you better awareness and communication abilities. Passive protection offers a simple yet reliable defense against hearing damage.

Your shooting environment and budget should guide your choice of protection. People who shoot at indoor ranges need higher NRR ratings and might benefit from using earmuffs with plugs together. Hunters and outdoor shooters often prefer electronic options that let them stay aware of their surroundings while blocking harmful shot sounds.

Hearing damage is permanent. The right protection today prevents lifelong hearing loss. It’s smart to keep backup options ready – a pair of foam plugs alongside your electronic protection will keep you safe in any situation.

FAQs

What is the most effective type of hearing protection for shooting?
For shooting activities, it’s advisable to use hearing protection with a high Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). Products with an NRR of at least 25 dB are recommended, but for enhanced safety, especially in busy environments like shooting ranges, ear protection with an NRR of 30 dB or higher is ideal.

What kind of ear protection do Navy SEALs prefer?
Navy SEALs often use the Sordin Supreme headsets, which are designed to withstand the rigorous demands of tactical operations. These headsets are not only waterproof but also exceptionally durable and resistant to wear, making them suitable for military-grade needs.

What type of ear protection is commonly used by snipers?
Snipers typically use specialized shooting ear protection that is detailed in various comparison charts focusing on features suitable for their specific needs.

Is an NRR of 32 dB suitable for shooting activities?
Yes, an NRR of 32 dB is considered very effective for shooting. Generally, a minimum NRR of 25 dB is recommended. Ear protection that offers this level of noise reduction while maintaining comfort and not hindering communication is considered adequate for shooting.

I’ve been using Walker’s Razor Slim headphones for shooting. Are there better options for gunshot noise compression?
While Walker’s Razor Slim headphones are a popular choice, if you’re looking for enhanced gunshot noise compression, you might consider exploring other high-performance models that offer superior sound dampening and comfort. It’s worth investing in a model that provides both high NRR and user comfort if you are open to a broader price range.