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20 Best Ear Protection For Shooting For 2022

One of the most critical pieces of gear that any shooter requires is a suitable hearing protection.

Any noise above 70 decibels (dB) will cause damage to your hearing over a long period, but harsh noises over 120 dB will instantly hurt your hearing.

For example, shots from a 9mm Glock G17 are typically around 162 dB, and a Ruger 10/22 22LR is about 140 dB.

Depending on where you shoot, noise levels will be affected.

Indoor shooting sounds will echo off surfaces and walls, and outdoor shooting sound dissipates faster.

The goal is to reduce the overall noise to an acceptable level to prevent permanent hearing loss.

Below are the 20 best ear protection for shooting devices on the market today.

#1. Impact Sport Electronic Earmuffs

Impact Sport Electronic Earmuffs ear protection for shooting

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 22 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: Yes
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black, OD Green, Teal, Pink, Multicam, Multicam Black, Multicam Alpine

The Impact Sport Electronic Earmuffs by Howard Leigh will give you the hearing protection you require while giving you excellent features.

For added protection, once the earmuffs detect noise over 82 dB, the hearing protection kicks in, and the automatic shut-off saves battery life after four hours.

It includes directionally placed microphones to give you superior situational awareness.

It also comes equipped with an AUX input, allowing you to connect a radio or your smartphone for easy communication and entertainment.

If you are looking for the best ear protection for shooting that has an AUX port, the Impact Sport Electronic Earmuffs by Howard Leigh is an excellent option.

It’s a classic ear protection for shooting, and is available from Brownells. Here’s where to buy it: www.Brownells.com

#2. Razor Patriot Series

Razor Patriot Series

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 23 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): OD Green, Dark Earth, Black

The Razor Patriot Series by Walkers is an impressive pair of earmuffs with active noise protection.

Once it detects a dangerous noise level, the unit will activate its 23 dB noise reduction, and once the firing stops, you will have increased situational awareness.

It includes two Hi-Gain omnidirectional microphones and full dynamic range HD speakers for premium sound and protection.

The Razor Patriot Series by Walkers is a superb choice for those who want active noise protection with a slim form factor.

They are available from Brownells. Here’s where to buy it: www.Brownells.com

#3. Noizebarrier Micro Earplugs

Noizebarrier Micro Earplugs

  • Noise Reduction Rating: Up to 40 dB
  • Form Factor: Earplugs
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black

Noizebarrier Micro Ear Plugs by OTTO is a premium package that offers superior hearing protection and features.

It provides up to 40 dB of impulsive and 15 dB of adaptive noise protection, providing optimal hearing protection in a small package.

Because of its simple earplug design, you can easily wear them with a kevlar and other headgear.

They have a simple one-button activation and include a hearing enhancement mode, providing five times improved hearing with soft sounds.

The case and plugs have an IP67 water resistance rating, making it one of the best ear protection for shooting devices on the market.

With a rechargeable battery, you will have 16 hours of continuous use between charges.

A downside to the Noizebarrier Micro Ear Plugs by OTTO is its price, but you are getting what you pay for.

They are available from Brownells. Here’s where to buy it: www.Brownells.com

#4. EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra

ep7 sonic defender are one of the best ear protection for shooting devices

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 28 dB
  • Form Factor: Earplugs
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black

If you are looking for a basic pair of earplugs with excellent noise reduction, the EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra by Surefire is your best bet.

You get 28 dB of noise reduction, and the filter caps can be removed for improved soft sound recognition.

They are comfortable, lightweight, and made from medical-grade polymer, and perfect for ear protection for shooting.

The Soft memory-foam Canal Comply Tips fit snugly into your ears and provide all-day comfort.

If you are looking for hearing protection under $20 that will provide excellent protection, the EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra by Surefire is your go-to pair of earplugs.

They are available from Brownells. Here’s where to buy it: www.Brownells.com

#5. 3.0 Premium Electronic Ear Muffs

3.0 Premium Electronic Ear Muffs

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 23 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: Yes
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Green

Brownells’ 3.0 Premium Electronic Ear Muffs provide everything you need in an affordable package.

These headphones are based on Walker’s Razor Slim muffs and provide some of the same outstanding features.

You get two Hi-Gain omnidirectional microphones to allow you to communicate clearly with those around you and have better situational awareness.

You will have a 23 dB noise reduction with active hearing protection once rounds come downrange.

It also includes an auxiliary port to listen to your favorite music while on the range.

Brownells’ 3.0 Premium Electronic Ear Muffs are an excellent option if you want an auxiliary port with active noise protection.

They are available from Brownells. Here’s where to buy it: www.Brownells.com

#6. Xcel 100 Digital Electronic Muff W/Voice Clarity

Xcel 100 Digital Electronic Muff W Voice Clarity

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 26 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Tan

Walkers’ XCEL 100 Digital Electronic Muff W/Voice Clarity takes a different approach to the standard earmuff design to provide a better hearing experience while keeping the unit compact and lightweight.

Unlike standard earmuffs with active hearing protection, they put the control board and Hi-Gain omnidirectional microphones on the headband, providing improved performance while having a solid cheek weld.

They provide variable dynamic sound suppression, and the microphones are wind-resistant for better hearing.

Walkers’ XCEL 100 Digital Electronic Muff W/Voice Clarity is perfect for those who want a slim unit with a 26 dB noise reduction rating.

They are available from Brownells. Here’s where to buy it: www.Brownells.com

#7. Vertex Nano Wireless Electronic Earbuds

Vertex Nano Wireless Electronic Earbuds

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 25 dB
  • Form Factor: Earbuds
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Tan

The Vertex Nano Wireless Electronic Earbuds ‌provide a comfortable all-day wear while providing enhanced hearing protection.

With a 25 dB noise reduction rating and an earbud design, you will have excellent hearing protection no matter what type of headgear you are wearing.

The earbuds have a .02 second reaction time between when shots are fired and when the active hearing protection activates.

They also enhance soft sound by five times for improved communication and awareness.

With an impressive 120-hour battery life, you will have plenty of range time between battery swaps.

It is important to note that even though they have an earbud design, the unit does not have Bluetooth.

Radians’ Vertex Nano Wireless Electronic Earbuds is a perfect choice with a small form factor and excellent protection.

They are available from Brownells. Here’s where to buy it: www.Brownells.com

#8. Allen Reaction NRR26 Low Profile Shooting Muff

Allen Reaction NRR26 Low Profile Shooting Muff

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 26 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black

The Allen Reaction NRR26 Low Profile Shooting Muff is a budget unit that provides excellent hearing protection with a minimalist design.

It has a noise reduction rate of 26 dB and is one of the most affordable ear muffs you can buy.

It folds, has an adjustable yoke, and has comfortable low-profile foam padded ear cups.

If you are looking for simple hearing protection without advanced features or batteries, the Allen Reaction NRR26 Low Profile Shooting Muff is your best choice.

They are available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com

#9. Walker’s Ultra Slim Muff & Glasses Combo Kit

Walker's Ultra Slim Muff & Glasses Combo Kit

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 27 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black

Walker’s Ultra Slim Muff & Glasses Combo Kit is perfect for beginners by providing all your protective equipment in one package.

The headset has a 27 dB noise reduction rating with a composite housing and a metal wireframe.

They crafted the glasses from high-grade impact-resistant polycarbonate and have 99% UV protection.

Walker’s Ultra Slim Muff & Glasses Combo Kit is your top pick if you want an affordable package.

They are available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com

#10. Pro Ears Gold II 26 DB Over The Ear Electronic Earmuff 

Pro Ears Gold II 26 DB Over The Ear Electronic Earmuff 

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 26 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Pink

The Pro Ears Gold II 26 dB Over the Ear Electronic Earmuff is perfect for those who want high sound quality while shooting.

Each ear has independent volume knobs to control the amplified sound control.

These earmuffs have an impressive eight times amplification and communicate clearly with those around you even while shooting.

The sound quality on this headset is top-notch with its proprietary DLSC compression technology.

While this model is pink, Palmetto State Armory has similar headsets in different colors.

If you are looking for a premium sound experience, the Pro Ears Gold II 26 dB Over the Ear Electronic Earmuff is an excellent choice.

They are available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com

#11. Walkers Single Mic Electronic Ear Muff

Walkers Single Mic Electronic Ear Muff ear protection for shooting

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 22 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black

Walkers Single Mic Electronic Ear Muff provides active sound compression at a competitive price.

With a 22 dB noise reduction rating and a single microphone, you get excellent noise protection with a four times soft sound amplification.

The microphone is wind-resistant and has a high-frequency technology for easy sound identification.

It has rubber ear pads and a padded headband for a comfortable fit.

If you are on a budget and want an electronic earmuff, the Walkers Single Mic Electronic Ear Muff is your top pick.

They are available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com

#12. Champion Gel Earplugs Bulk

Champion Gel Earplugs Bulk

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 26 dB
  • Form Factor: Earplugs
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Orange

Champion Gel Ear Plugs Bulk is the cheapest option you can go with, and with a 26 dB noise reduction rating, it will provide the protection you require.

They constructed it out of soft silicone for a comfortable all-day fit, and is the smallest ear protection for shooting devices available today.

You can buy these in bulk and keep multiple sets on you or in various packs to ensure you always have hearing protection available.

If you want to buy hearing protection in bulk, the Champion Gel Ear Plugs are your most affordable option.

They are available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com

#13. Caliber True Wireless Tactical Earbuds w/Bluetooth

Caliber True Wireless Tactical Earbuds w Bluetooth

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 25 dB
  • Form Factor: Earbuds
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Color(s): OD Green

The Caliber True Wireless Tactical Earbuds w/Bluetooth by ISOtunes Sport uses advanced technology to amplify natural sounds while protecting your hearing.

One of the best features of these earbuds is that it has a rechargeable battery and a two-hour auto shut-off feature for improved battery life.

You can customize the fit of the earbuds with three pairs of short Trilogy Foam ear tips and three Trilogy Foam ear tips.

You will have superior ear protection for shooting and situational awareness with a 25 dB noise reduction rate and a background noise-reducing microphone.

Also, they come equipped with Bluetooth to play your favorite music or answer calls.

The earbuds are dust, sweat, and waterproof with an IP67 rating for added durability.

If you want superior hearing protection with an earbud form factor with Bluetooth, the Caliber True Wireless Tactical Earbuds w/Bluetooth by ISOtunes Sport is perfect for you.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

#14. Caldwell E-Max Electronic Hearing Protection

Caldwell E-Max Electronic Hearing Protection for shooting

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 23 – 26 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black/Green

The Caldwell E-Max Electronic Hearing Protection is a low-cost electronic earmuff with a dual microphone design.

It has a standard ear cup design with the bonus of microphone technology.

Any sound above 85 dB will activate the noise reduction, while any soft sounds below 85 dB will be enhanced for improved communication and situational awareness.

This earmuff comes in a 25 dB and a 23 dB model, making it one of the best ear protection for shooting at indoor and outdoor ranges.

If you are on a budget and want an electronic headset, the Caldwell E-Max Electronic Hearing Protection is an excellent choice.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

#15. 3M Peltor 6S Tactical Hearing Protection Ear Muffs

3M Peltor 6S Tactical Hearing Protection Ear Muffs

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 19 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black/Gray

The 3M Peltor 6S Tactical Hearing Protection Ear Muffs provide lightweight protection with a slim, low-profile cup design.

They equipped it with active protection, which activates five milliseconds after shots are fired with a noise reduction rating of 19 dB.

Unlike the typical earmuff, the 3M Peltor 6S is worn behind the head, which allows you to wear more styles of headgear.

They equipped each cup with independent volume controls and microphones.

If you want a behind your head style earmuff, the 3M Peltor 6S Tactical Hearing Protection Ear Muffs are perfect for you.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

#16. Walkers Silencer In The Ear Plugs Pair

Walkers Silencer In The Ear Plugs Pair - best shooting ear protection

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 25 dB
  • Form Factor: Earplugs
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black

Walkers Silencer In The Ear Plugs Pair has sound-activated compression to protect your hearing from high-decibel noise and integrated omnidirectional microphones to allow easy communication with your team.

The hearing protection comes in an earplug/bud form factor and has a 25 dB noise reduction rating.

Each pair comes with three different ear fins to ensure a proper fit and seal.

With an 80-hour battery life, you can get some serious range time between battery swaps.

Have the freedom of no interference while aiming and shooting with the Walker’s Silencer In The Ear Plugs Pair.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

#17. 3M Peltor Sound-Trap Slim Line Electronic Earmuff Tactical Headset

3M Peltor Sound-Trap Slim Line Electronic Earmuff Tactical Headset

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 21 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: Yes
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Beige/Black

The 3M Peltor Sound-Trap Slim Line Electronic Earmuff Tactical Headset offers nearly instant noise attenuation to protect your hearing.

It has a noise reduction rating of 21 dB and comes equipped with a separate microphone, receiver, amplifier, and volume control in each cup to control your protection.

With an impressive 200-hour battery life, you will get some serious range time between battery swaps.

It also comes with an auxiliary port, which lets you make calls or listen to music.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

#18. Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Electronic Hearing Protection Ear Muffs w/Bluetooth

Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Electronic Hearing Protection Ear Muffs w Bluetooth

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 26 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Color(s): Black

The Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Electronic Hearing Protection Ear Muffs w/Bluetooth provide everything you want in hearing protection with a 26 dB noise reduction rating.

With Bluetooth, you can easily answer calls or listen to music.

It features Clear Voice Tracking, which monitors the surrounding sound to isolate voices and filter out background noise for improved communication.

It also has recessed microphones to reduce wind interference.

With smart features and up to a 90-hour battery life, the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 Electronic Hearing Protection Ear Muffs w/Bluetooth is an easy choice.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

#19. Peltor Tactical Earplugs

Peltor Tactical Earplugs

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 23 – 30 dB
  • Form Factor: Earplugs
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Black/Tan

The Peltor Tactical Earplugs offer superior performance in a low-profile and lightweight package.

The earplugs are water-resistant and have an IP67 protection level, making them one of the best ear protection for shooting ranges.

With these earplugs, you get a noise reduction rating of up to 30 dB, and they can operate for 16 continuous hours between charges.

A benefit of the earplug design is that you can easily wear them anywhere, offering improved hearing protection and situational awareness.

They use smart technology to help identify and reduce harmful noise while enhancing soft noise, such as talking.

A downside is that they are expensive compared to other options.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

#20. OTTO Engineering NoizeBarrier TAC

OTTO Engineering NoizeBarrier TAC - best ear protection for shooting

  • Noise Reduction Rating: 23 dB
  • Form Factor: Earmuff
  • Auxiliary Port: No
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Color(s): Olive Drab Green, Flat Dark Earth, Black

The OTTO Engineering NoizeBarrier TAC is the best headset for tactical operations.

With a 23 dB noise reduction rating and advanced noise reduction technology, it will protect your hearing while giving you superior situational awareness.

A unique feature that this headset has is the option to mount the ear cups to your tactical helmet.

Other significant features include a noise-canceling boom microphone, a 100-hour battery life, and several unique radio options.

If you want a superior soundscape in an operational environment, the OTTO Engineering NoizeBarrier TAC headset is excellent.

They are available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com

References / Resources

3 Things to Look for in Electronic Hearing Protection

Noise Reduction Rating Explained

See Also

10 Best .22 Caliber Rifles

 

 

 

 
Kevin R.
Latest posts by Kevin R. (see all)
Shooting Hearing Protection

Shooting Hearing Protection

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Our list of the best hearing protection for shooting includes headsets, ear muffs, ear plugs, and other devices that are perfect for both indoor and outdoor ranges.
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