Electronic Muffs. Highest NRR?

[blujax01]

I paid $30 for a pair of Caldwell E-Max Low Profile NRR 23. They're okay but depending on who's shooting what at the range, I still wince on occasion.

I could put ear plugs underneath but then I can't hear conversation. Kind of defeats the purpose, don't it.

What is the highest NRR available in E Muffs? How much should I expect to pay? I'm willing to put out the dinero if it's justified.

Please to share the good, the bad, and the ugly. Thanks.

 

[JohnnieB]

I've got big ears to match my big hands and feet, so none of the "Low Profile" models work for me.

Any air leaks or marginal contact of the earmuff will allow the more powerful blasts through.

Weak batteries will also lengthen the attack time on sharper sounds. YMMV, but I find NiCad and Photo grade batteries work best - something to do with the high current pulse needed to squelch the amplifiers and the run of the mill batteries not being able to produce a current spike with a steep enough rise on the leading edge.

Also, do the same guns being fired make you wince when you are wearing non-electronic hearing protection with the same NRR?

FWIW, I use the full sized Caldwells, don't remember the model number or NRR, but they were fairly inexpensive. Anyway, they effectively shut out a Barrett .50 Cal as long as I stay in the 90 degree quadrant directly behind the person shooting it.

I don't own one of those monsters, nor do I have any desire to shoot one, but it sure is fun to watch others do it.

Hope some of the thoughts above help,
John

 

[ChattanoogaPhil]

I have a pair Howard Leight R-01526. They are low profile. I use foam ear plugs with them and it's perfect. I can hear people talking up to 50 feet away.

 

[OKFC05]

Cheap electronic earmuffs are frequently unsatisfactory because the rated NRR does not tell the whole story.
The electronics need to shut down FAST or they still hurt your ears. Cheap muffs are cheaply made.

If you have the money, just buy the Pro Ears and enjoy the comfort. As a CRO and match director, I spend a lot of time on the range and am glad I spent the money for the best.

 

[blujax01]

Cheap electronic earmuffs are frequently unsatisfactory because the rated NRR does not tell the whole story.
The electronics need to shut down FAST or they still hurt your ears. Cheap muffs are cheaply made.

If you have the money, just buy the Pro Ears and enjoy the comfort. As a CRO and match director, I spend a lot of time on the range and am glad I spent the money for the best.

Okay I went to Pro Ears web site and they show 18 models of electronic muffs. Any one in particular?

 

[Rule3]

Okay I went to Pro Ears web site and they show 18 models of electronic muffs. Any one in particular?

Yes, the non electric ones

I use the passive 33. I can still hear range commands.
No batteries, no electronics to screw up just solid ear protection. The highest noise reduction, best made muffs out there without spending a small fortune.

Pro Ears Ultra? 33