A pair of ear defenders with an SNR or NRR of 30 dB should reduce the volume of loud sounds by roughly 30 decibels (dB), though in practice the real level of noise reduction can be quite different, and is often lower. Which type of hearing protection is best for shooting? In addition some ear defenders have built-in two way communication systems so you can listen and speak to your fellow shooters. This is particularly useful for shoot captains who want to talk to beaters or keepers. If sounds over 85 dB are loud enough to cause hearing damage, how can ear defenders with an SNR of just 30 dB protect us from the sound of gunshot? With over 25 years’ experience in industrial, aviation and personal headset and eardefender repairs Earshot Communications is a true specialist with a wealth of knowledge that makes it one of the leading repair centres in the UK.

Matt Manning says: “These distinctive ear defenders have earned themselves a loyal following and there are very few game shoots and clay grounds where they won’t be seen. They are popular for good reason; chiefly because they are reasonably priced, medium-weight ear defenders that function reliably with minimal maintenance.” BUY NOW Best of the rest 1. Bisley Compact Ear Protectors If you regularly go game shooting, you should get yourself a good pair of electronic ear defenders. Moulded ear plugs with passive filters that allow you to hear conversation and perceive changes in air pressure are also popular, but they don’t offer the same level of protection as ear defenders.state that they were designed specifically with hunters and marksmen in mind. The unique sound circuitry that stops the abrupt noise cut-off is certainly a nice feature. If you enjoy shooting, you definitely need proper hearing protection. Guns are extremely loud—even .22 rifles are capable of 140 dB. Damaging this bony structure can cause hearing loss, which is why many people opt for ear defenders over ear plugs.

Well, the 85 dB figure is actually the safe limit for constant exposure during an 8-hour day. Our ears can withstand louder noises as long as we’re not exposed to them for too long.Ear defenders in general offer better hearing protection than ear plugs because as well as protecting the ear drum, they also protect the bony structure behind the ear, which is also responsible for conducting sound. The waterproofing on the battery compartment and optional gel earseals are an excellent bonus for people who’ll be wearing them for a long time whilst out in the elements. Shooting noise is intermittent rather than constant, so it’s less damaging to the hearing than constant noise of the same volume would be. It’s a bit like how you can put your hand on a hot radiator for a second without it hurting too much, but leaving it there would cause a burn. Even though the sound of gunshot will still be loud when wearing ear defenders, it will be reduced to a level that won’t risk rupturing the eardrum. What sort of hearing protection do I need for clay pigeon shooting?