Finding Adequate Hearing Protection for Shooting with Tinnitus

Introduction

Understanding Tinnitus and Hearing Protection

Individuals with tinnitus can find suitable hearing protection for shooting, such as custom-molded earplugs or earmuffs with noise reduction ratings appropriate for firearm noise. Consulting an audiologist specializing in hearing protection is recommended for personalized recommendations.

Types of Hearing Protection

Types of Ear Protection

There are several degrees and types of hearing protection available, each designed to meet the specific needs of shooters. Here is a detailed breakdown of the types of protection available: Passive Ear Muffs: Devices that provide noise reduction without the use of electronics. They are typically easy to use and can offer a wide range of noise reduction. Active/Electronic Ear Muffs: Ear muffs that use electronics to reduce noise. They can filter out background noise while still allowing for clear communication. Active/Electronic In-Ear Plugs: In-ear devices that use technology to filter out noise. They often provide the highest noise reduction ratings and are popular among professional shooters. Around the Neck Ear Plugs: Ear plugs that are connected with a cord. These are convenient for manual tasks like cleaning a firearm. Custom-Molded Earplugs: Custom-made earplugs that provide a tight seal and are often preferred by shooters for maximum noise reduction.

Noise Reduction Ratings and Effects

The typical noise reduction ratings for various types of hearing protection are in the range of -23db to 26db. This is adequate for small caliber outdoor ranges. Passive and electronic muffs generally fall within this range, while in-ear plugs often do as well. Electronic muffs like headphones have the advantage of allowing normal conversation to be heard semi-clearly but clamp down as soon as sound exceeds the best baseline of around 80db.

Some of the best electronic earmuffs can reach -28db to -30db. In-ear electronic plugs are typically and consistently in the -28db to over -30db range. This high level of protection is especially important for shooters dealing with higher caliber firearms, which produce louder noise.

For indoor ranges, where the sound is trapped in a confined space, double hearing protection is often recommended. This means using a combination of passive foam/gel earplugs and active electronic earmuffs.

Cost Considerations and Recommendations

The cost of hearing protection can vary widely. Foam or gel ear plugs are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at building supply or hardware stores. Passive headsets or ear plugs from any gun store can also be found at low costs. More advanced electronic earmuffs can range from around $50 to several hundred dollars.

For those on a budget, the affordable Modestly Priced Electronic Ear Muffs are suitable. These devices offer a noise reduction rating of around -23db to -26db, which is sufficient for most users. For example, I got a pair on sale for $20, which is a good deal.

For those with more money to spend, there are higher-end options available. Walker ear muffs with a bit higher noise reduction and a higher price point are worth considering. For serious shooters, the high-reduction in-ear models can be a great investment, but they may come at a significant cost.

Typically, a range of 40 to 60 decibels with a noise reduction rating of -23db to -26db is sufficient for most people. Low-profile electronic ear muffs that are thin and compact are preferable as they do not interfere with shouldering a rifle. Clear-Voice options with Bluetooth and advanced noise reduction features can be worth the extra money for those who prioritize these features.