If you are planning a trip to a shooting range or similar loud environment then purchasing electronic hearing protection is going to be essential as it will help to reduce the noise level and keep your eyes safe at all times.
More accessible than ever, electronic hearing protection usually integrates advanced technology to ensure that you can communicate with your group whilst also ensuring that any loud noises are not overwhelming.
However, with so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one is going to be right for you which is why we have gathered the top five products on the market that you should consider as well as a Buyers Guide and FAQ so you can learn what to expect when doing your research.
Here are the top five electronic hearing protection available on the market that you should consider:
OUR TOP PICK
EDITORS CHOICE
BEST VALUE
OUR TOP PICK
Our first recommendation is the Peltor Sport Tactical 100 Electronic Hearing Protector which has an incredibly 22dB noise reduction rating making it brilliant for those going to outdoor shooting ranges.
This product can be used in both indoor or outdoor ranges and works well for both shooters and hunters alike. The variable suppression time helps to reduce any echoes when shooting indoors making it very convenient and comfortable to use.
This product also boasts an adaptive frequency response which reduces the amount of background noise allowing for clearer conversation and communication which is important if you have an instructor to listen to.
What makes this our top pick is that this product features durable recessed microphones which help to prevent any damage whilst also reducing the level of wind noise for extra convenience.
The adjustable headband has been made with added padding so you can have a comfortable fit that makes your experience more enjoyable and hassle-free. This product runs on 2 AAA batteries which means that it is easy to use.
Pros:
- The variable suppression time helps to reduce any echoes when shooting indoors making it very convenient and comfortable to use
- Boasts an adaptive frequency response which reduces the amount of background noise allowing for clearer conversation and communication which is important if you have an instructor to listen to
- Features durable recessed microphones which help to prevent any damage whilst also reducing the level of wind noise for extra convenience
Cons:
- Requires extra protection when visiting an indoor shooting range
EDITORS CHOICE
Our second selection is the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Smart Electronic Hearing Protector with Bluetooth Technology which is made from highly durable plastic and rubber that will ensure the longevity of the product.
Made in the USA, this option has a 26dB noise reduction rating making it ideal for any kind of loud environment. Ideal for use both indoors and outdoors, shooters and hunters can benefit from using this product.
Integrated with Bluetooth technology, you can stream music and make calls using this protector with ease making it highly convenient and ideal for those who want a more advanced option.
This protector has a dynamic suppression time which measures the energy in gunshot noise and will automatically set a suppression time reducing the level of echoes whilst also increasing the comfortability.
The clear voice tracking seeks voice among the background noise and can filter this noise for improved speech intelligibility making it ideal for those who are shooting or hunting in groups. The durable recessed microphones prevent any damage and reduce wind noise.
Pros:
- Made from highly durable plastic and rubber that will ensure the longevity of the product
- Integrated with Bluetooth technology, you can stream music and make calls using this protector with ease making it highly convenient and ideal for those who want a more advanced option
- Measures the energy in gunshot noise and will automatically set a suppression time reducing the level of echoes whilst also increasing the comfortability
Cons:
- High price point
BEST VALUE
Our third choice is the Caldwell E-Max Low Profile Electronic Hearing Protection which features a pull-on closure for convenience and allows you to experience high-quality stereo sound while also protecting your hearing with a 23 noise reduction rating.
It features an adjustable headband with padded ear cups so you can fit this protector perfectly to ensure proper noise cancellation as well as hearing protection. The slender, low-profile design provides a closer cheek weld which allows for more accurate shooting.
This protector features dual microphones in each ear that provide directional clarity and amplifies any sounds below 85dB to an ideal volume thanks to the push-button controls.
It also includes an audio jack for immediate connectivity making it ideal for those who want a more technologically advanced option.
This protector has been designed with practicality and functionality in mind which has resulted in a compact product that can be stored away easily as well as folding muffs that will fit into any range bag with ease.
Pros:
- Features an adjustable headband with padded ear cups so you can fit this protector perfectly to ensure proper noise cancellation as well as hearing protection
- Features dual microphones in each ear that provide directional clarity and amplifies any sounds below 85dB to an ideal volume thanks to the push-button controls
- Designed with practicality and functionality in mind which has resulted in a compact product that can be stored away easily as well as folding muffs that will fit into any range bag with ease
Cons:
- The fit can be quite tight
RUNNER UP
Our penultimate recommendation is the Peltor Sport RangeGuard Electronic Hearing Protector which features a great 21dB noise reduction rating making it great for both indoor and outdoor use.
Suitable for shooters and hunters alike, this protector is one of the best options for those who want a cheaper option but don’t want to compromise the quality.
This product suppresses the amount of gunshot noise to protect hearing while also amplifying the volume of voices which allows for clear communication.
This protector is great as it features durable recessed microphones that help to reduce wind noise as well as preventing damage. The low-profile cups boast a cutout design that makes them ideal for rifle and shotgun use as they will protect your ears and ensure that you are as safe as possible.
It features a 3.5mm audio input jack that is compatible with most MP3 players and 2-way radios while the single volume control helps to balance the volume level in both cups.
Pros:
- Suppresses the amount of gunshot noise to protect hearing while also amplifying the volume of voices which allows for clear communication
- Features durable recessed microphones that help to reduce wind noise as well as preventing damage
- Features a 3.5mm audio input jack that is compatible with most MP3 players and 2-way radios while the single volume control helps to balance the volume level in both cups
Cons:
- The seal is quite fragile
RUNNER UP
Our final selection is the GLORY FIRE Ear Protection which features built-in omnidirectional microphones that help to increase environmental voices when the overall sound is over 82dB making it ideal for those who are visiting indoor and outdoor shooting ranges.
With a noise reduction rating of 25dB, this product can be used by hunters and shooters alike in any kind of noisy environment.
Designed in the US, this protector is different thanks to its advanced technology that allows it to shut off all noise when the sound reaches 82dB meaning that your ears will always be safe when you are shooting or hunting thanks to the integrated compress technology which reduces the noise levels automatically.
With an improved sound amplification of six times, this protector is a lot better than the average protector which has around 4 times of sound amplification which means you can adjust to the slight sound of animals easily if you are hunting.
It also comes with an AUX input and 3.5mm connection cord which can connect to the majority of MP3 and scanners while the integrated power and volume knob means you can adjust the noise levels to something more comfortable for you.
This product features a high-quality headband that is adjustable for ultimate comfortability whilst the soft padded design means you can wear it for hours without feeling any strain or discomfort. The customer service team is available to assist you with any technical issues and queries you may have which is great for those who want that extra peace of mind.
Pros:
- Designed in the US, this protector is different thanks to its advanced technology that allows it to shut off all noise when the sound reaches 82dB meaning that your ears will always be safe when you are shooting or hunting thanks to the integrated compress technology which reduces the noise levels automatically
- Comes with an AUX input and 3.5mm connection cord which can connect to the majority of MP3 and scanners while the integrated power and volume knob means you can adjust the noise levels to something more comfortable for you
- Features a high-quality headband that is adjustable for ultimate comfortability whilst the soft padded design means you can wear it for hours without feeling any strain or discomfort
Cons:
- The jack doesn’t have a cover
Best Electronic Hearing Protection Buying Guide
When conducting your research, there are certain factors that you should always consider before making any purchase. This will ensure that you prevent any disappointment whilst also meaning that you can know what to expect when the product arrives.
Always think about the material that the protection is made from, the size, what support is available, and your budget. Once you have weighed these aspects against your own needs and requirements, you’ll be able to make a fully informed decision with confidence.
Material
The first thing you should always check is the materials used in the construction of the product. Making sure that the protection is made from durable and reliable materials that can withstand any kind of weather and provide an ample amount of support that will reduce the amount of noise from gunshots.
Materials such as plastic and rubber can provide the thickness and noise reduction needed whilst wind-resistant microphones mean you can communicate with other people easily.
Size
The next factor that you always need to consider is the size of the protection. Making sure that they are adjustable will ensure that they will fit your head perfectly to provide comfortability for longer periods of time as well as making the product more convenient as you won’t have to worry about it falling off.
Another reason why size is important is that the product is more likely to be effective if it fits properly.
Support
Another aspect that is important to think about is whether there is additional support available should you need it.
If you are skeptical or unsure about purchasing a product, always look into any return policies or warranty periods that the product may come with as well as the availability of a customer service team who will be specially trained to assist with any technical issues or queries you may have so you can make the most from your product.
Budget
Lastly, always consider your budget. As you can see from the recommendations provided in this article, there are options available at varying price points so whether you have the money to spend or are working with a stricter budget, you’ll be able to make a decision that is going to bring you great results without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does electronic hearing protection work?
The results from electronic hearing protection are entirely dependent on the quality of the product as you want them to be effective in reducing any loud sounds such as gunshots. They are much better than regular earmuffs as they are made from more durable materials.
What do electronic hearing protectors do?
Electronic hearing protection works as a noise reduction product that also allows you to use a microphone to talk to other people. They usually have built-in microphones and volume controls that allow you to choose settings that are the most comfortable for you.
Is electronic ear protection safe?
Electronic ear protection is usually safe when used within its safe limits which on average is around 82dB. This means that you can use the product in environments where the noise exposure is up to 100dB including a variety of gun ranges.
Does the military use electronic hearing protection?
The military equips their soldiers with advanced electronic hearing protection such as the patented 3M Peltor TEP-100 which has been used by the military since 2014 thanks to their advanced technology and ease of use.