hearing protection at the range?

[Blender345]

Hey guys. I still have yet to shoot my Sigma. I have been looking for a pair (or 2) of some hearing protection. Since I don't even have money for the range right now, im trying to save a little on ear protection. I am not sure what level decibels I should be looking for, but I have found these 2:

46161 - Winchester SXT Hearing Protection Earmuffs, NRR 26dB, Black

46168 - S&W Supressor Earmuffs

would you guys suggest either of these? I know they are pretty cheap which is why I want them. I plan on buying 2 incase I bring someone with me. My friend said he has glock ones at $50 each that are top of the line, but the truth is I don't have that kind of money to spend right now (and I don't want to wait much longer to hit up a range). Any input is appreciated. Maybe even some info as to how much dd or db or whatever hearing protection is recommended. Also, feel free to recommend what you think is good as well. I am looking for opinions and help from you experienced guys.

By the way, I was leaning more toward the black ones since they're 1 db more protection (I think higher number is better?) and they just look better I think. Thanks for the time guys I appreciate any help.

 

[novalty]

I use the Peltor Ultimate 10 ear muffs and they reduce sound tremendously, and are very comfortable. Rated around 32db NRR rating. Think they generally cost about $20-$25. They are large so fine for handguns, but more difficult to use with rifles or shotguns.

 

[dannybot]

You can get some of those foam ear plugs rated for about 30 db from the drug store. They're a couple bucks for 10-15 pair. If you put them in properly, they work nicely. I am comfortable using them at an indoor range with my .38.

 

[jag312]

I used to use the Peltor Ultimate 10 with ear plugs. Now I use the Pro Ears Ultra 33 with ear plugs. I am a firm believer in maximum hearing protection. Once you lose it, you ain't never gonna get it back. The Pro Ears were not that expensive, and there are very comfortable.

 

[BigRich315]

Both look well made and are the very least protection I would buy. I like the design of the Winchester better and the extra dB doesnt hurt. If its an indoor range I'd suggest a pair of cheapo earplugs as well, the bigger calibers get pretty bad indoors.

 

[Blender345]

whats the lowest number nrr rated db youd suggest for an indoor range? I do plan to use plugs under them, if I can find some.

 

[murphydog]

Agree with jag312, find a comfortable pair of muffs with the highest dB reduction plus use ear plugs. A 9 mm or .40 Sigma is loud enough in an indoor range - just imagine when the guy in the next lane touches off his 2" .460 with the 2300 fps load, or the .357 derringer, or...

 

[JamesArthur60]

DO NOT go "cheap" for hearing protection. I use these: Howard Leight Leightning L3 Earmuffs (NRR 30 dB) Black - MidwayUSA. Indoor ranges are the most hazardous for hearing loss. You may be shooting a 9mm, but the guy on your left is shooting a 44 magnum and on your right is a shotgun. I also use plugs indoors.

 

[Nightowl]

Hearing aids are about $5,ooo and up. Buy the best hearing protection now. Avoid using only ear plugs at the indoor range. The sound vibration can also be transmitted by the bone around the ear and can also damage your hearing. Indoors, it is best to use both the ear plugs and an over the ear muff. Those listed above, the HL L3 are excellent and probably the best I have ever had, and reasonably priced.

 

[ab4ka]

When I'm inside I used plugs and muffs. When I'm outside I've got a set of cheap electronic ones that allow me to hear normally (they actually amplify sound) between shots. I got them free from Natchez when I bought a scope but they work great.

 

[44wheelman]

I bought cheap muffs at Wally World...Silencio or some such nonsense. Twenty something decibel protection/$14?...pair 'em with a decent pair of plugs, and I can almost still concentrate on my shooting when that guy 2 lanes over starts shooting magnum 12 gage rounds **sigh*** (luckily it doesn't last long), but combine that with the side-armed homie in the booth next to unloading his Glock into a man size silohuete a 5 yds.....it doesn't matter what you're wearing, but at least I can still hear when I'm done.

 

[growr]

Like many I use plugs and Peltor's Shotgunner Muff's simply because I can use them on rifle's as well due to fit and profile. As an Instructor I am exposed to a bit more range time than others. Someday I will get the high dollar Amplified ones.....until then the Peltors/ear plugs work for me.
Randy