13 Best Ear Protection For Shooting (Electronic & Passive)

Everyone should have a bag of the Walkers 32 DB Foam Ear Plugs. These are essential in your range bag and are quick and easy to use.

This bag has 25 pairs in it and is very inexpensive.

They work great if you have multiple friends coming to the range with you or if a friend forgets their hearing protection. You will have plenty of extra plugs.

The noise reduction rating is 32 DB, which is high for foam plugs and will effectively protect your ears.

These do not have a cord to connect the two plugs, but the high visibility orange color makes them easy to see if you drop them on the ground.

These plugs aren’t anything fancy, but they work great and get the job done. They are also very cheap, so I recommend everyone have a bag of these handy.

Specs:

Click Here to check the current prices of the Walkers 32 DB Foam Ear Plugs

The Walkers Blue Corded Foam Ear Plugs are essentially the same as the ones mentioned above but have a cord connecting the two.

These are good if you constantly insert and remove your ear pro to hear people talking or between firing sessions.

You can sling the earplugs over your neck so you will not lose them and have quick access to them when needed.

These are a high visibility yellow color instead of orange and are still rated at 32 DB noise reduction, which is plenty to preserve your hearing.

These come in a pack of two, and I would suggest buying multiple boxes of them. They are also very cheap so buying a bunch is no problem.

This way, you are prepared and set for a while.

Specs:

Click Here to check the current prices of the Walkers Blue Corded Foam Ear Plugs

The Pro Ears Stealth Bluetooth Elite Hearing Protection is now getting into more advanced technology.

These earbuds provide high-fidelity sound for music and hearing enhancement with noise-canceling technology and noise protection. Ideal for shooting to maintain situational awareness and safety in noisy environments while listening to music or talking on the phone.

The Pro Ears Stealth Elite earbuds have three modes of operation; isolation mode, pass-through mode, and amplification mode.

Hearing protection operates with or without the Bluetooth lanyard. The Bluetooth lanyard is rechargeable.

The kit includes batteries, a Bluetooth lanyard, a USB-C charger cord, three silicone ear tips, four foam ear tips, three optional use ear hooks for greater security on the ear, and a compact Pro Ears logo carry case.

Specs:

Click Here to check the current prices of the Pro Ears Stealth Bluetooth Elite Hearing Protection

The ISOtunes Sport Caliber Tactical Earbud is a Bluetooth shooting earbud that packs a big punch in a little package. This electronic ear pro is entirely dust, sweat, and waterproof and can run up to 13 hours without recharging.

The cordless design allows you to move freely, while Tactical Sound Control delivers amplified natural sound and gunshot noise reduction.

The sound isolation is amazing—plenty of foam inserts to choose the correct fit. The sound enhancement picks up way more sound than I thought.

The control configuration could be a little better, but I love having the ability to listen to music while shooting at the range.

The noise reduction and sound amplification are impressive with these earbuds, especially when you are outdoors with them. Overall I would recommend these to any shooters looking for new ear pro.

Specs:

Features:

• Tactical Sound Control Technology;
• SafeMax Technology;
• True Wireless;
• 2 Hr Auto Power Off;
• Background Noise-Reducing Microphone;
• IP67 durability rating

Click Here to check the current prices of the ISOtunes Sport Caliber Tactical Earbud

The OTTO Engineering NoizeBarrier Micro high-definition and rechargeable electronic earplugs offer unsurpassed situational awareness and clear communication while protecting hearing from loud noises.

The dual-mode NoizeBarrier earplugs offer active hearing protection and hearing enhancement for highly effective sound localization and detection. The earbuds and the case are compact, high quality, durable, simple, and highly effective.

The earbuds are comfortable, hold a charge well, and do an excellent job mitigating harmful noise without hampering your ability to hear useful ambient noise. Excellent sound quality.

Low profile earbud design doesn’t get in the way of eye pro or affect cheek welds when shooting rifles.

The battery life of the earbuds and the case is truly impressive. They fit nicely in the range bag without taking up serious space, and no need to worry about them getting damaged. They are always ready to go when you need them.

I am amazed every time I put these in, just how effective they are. The noise reduction of the snap and pop at the range with the ability to still hear and carry a conversation clearly is nothing short of amazing.

I am able to hear everything going on around me, making my time on the range safer. I’m no longer concerned about what I may be missing based on the lack of ability to hear clearly.

Whispers and conversations at a distance are crystal clear. The micros allow you to use whatever eye pro you want with the comfort you can’t get with ear muff style.

Lightweight and battery life that lasts for days in static mode and 16 hours of continuous use is no joke. Pop these in your ears and leave them in the h entire time on the range.

If you want the absolute best ear protection for shooting in an earbud-style, these are the best money can buy, and you will not be disappointed.

Features:

• Up to 40 dB of impulse noise protection
• Up to 15 dB adaptive noise attenuation
• Hearing enhancement mode amplifies soft sounds up to 5X
• Natural hearing for safe sounds
• Accu-Technology high-definition sound quality
• One-button touchpad, 2-mode operation
• NRR: 28 dB(Foam Tips); 23 dB (3-Flange Tips)
• Frequency Response: 40Hz – 16kHz
• Transducers: Balanced armature receivers (speakers)
• Wide bandwidth
• Low-noise MEMS microphones
• Battery Performance: Earplugs – Up to 16 hours; Charge Station – 20 earplug charge cycles
• Earpiece and case IP67 water resistant
• Charging status LCD panel
• 1-year warranty

Click Here to check the current prices of the OTTO Engineering NoizeBarrier Micro

These are sold at an incredibly affordable price and are comfortable. They give you ample hearing protection.

They are fully adjustable to multiple head sizes and with a padded comfortable head strap.

These muffs are rated at NRR 22 decibels at the low end of noise reduction and collapse to a wonderfully compact size.

There are no fancy bells or whistles on these, but you can’t beat the price, and they will get the job done.

Specs:

The Walkers Razor Slim Electronic Patriot Series Ear Muffs are designed for your ultimate comfort.

Featuring ultra-low profile ear cups, a rubberized coating, and a padded headband with a metal wire frame, these Protective Ear Muffs by Walkers have Two Omnidirectional Microphones and a sound-activated compression with a 0.02-second reaction time.

The Walkers Slim Low Profile Muff operates on 2x AAA batteries with an external battery door for easy access and a recessed volume control knob for a sleek appearance.

Walkers are great for trips to the shooting range. They are comfortable and easy to use. You can use them for any activity that you might need hearing protection.

Also, the patriot series are pretty cool with the USA flag on the side. You can swap the patch out with any you prefer.

These are available in three different colors.

Specs:

Features:

• Ultra Low Profile Ear Cups
• Includes two US Flag patches
• Rubberized Coating
• Two Hi Gain Omni Directional Microphones
• Audio Input Jack
• Low Noise / Frequency tuned for natural sound clarity
• Volume Control
• Compact Folding Design
• Comfort headband w/ metal wire frame
• Sound-dampening composite housing
• NRR 23
• Sound Activated Compression – 0.02 second reaction time
• Recessed Volume Control Knob
• External Battery Door
• Operates on 2 “AAA” batteries

Click Here to check the current prices of the Walkers Razor Slim Electronic Patriot Series Ear Muffs

The Howard Leight Impact Tactical Earmuff is the most common and well-known electronic hearing muff. These will protect your ears from hazardous noise yet keeps you connected to your environment.

Featuring built-in directional microphones, these Protective Ear Muffs by Howard Leight amplify range commands and other ambient noises to a safe 82db for enhanced communication and a more natural noise environment.

The Honeywell Howard Leight Impact Foldable Ear Muff comes equipped with an AUX input for connecting to external devices like cell phones and MP3 players.

A low energy-consuming feature shuts the muffs off after 4 hours to preserve the battery.

I like how low profile and slim these are designed. They do not stick out and protrude too far from your head.

These inexpensive, thin, and comfortable earmuffs can be worn in all shooting conditions. They are perfect for aiming with a shouldered rifle.

Specs:

Features:

• Amplifies low-level sound up to 4 times
• Protection against harmful noise
• Convenient folding design for easy storage
• Soft headband for greater wearer comfort
• AUX input allows connection to external MP3 players or other audio devices for additional listening off the field
• Low energy consuming features a 4-hour automatic shut-off
• Features patented Air Flow Control™ technology for optimal attenuation
• Ultraslim, lightweight earcup design; low-profile earcups with contoured design allow for full clearance of firearm stock, eliminating interference while shooting
• Contemporary leatherette headband
• Integrated power/volume knob

Click Here to check the current prices of the Howard Leight Impact Tactical Earmuff

Get comfortable protection from the loud blasts of gunfire at the range when you throw on this Walkers XCEL 500BT Digital Electronic Ear Muff.

With these, you get four listening modes: universal, Hi frequency, speech clarity mode, and power boost.

This Walkers XCEL 500BT Digital Hearing Protection offers wind noise reduction for complete clarity and concentration while getting some target practice.

You only need 2 AAA batteries to operate this device, and a low battery warning lets you know when it’s almost time to replace them.

Connect this device with Bluetooth and easily change the ergonomic controls on the headband.

There’s even voice mode navigation for hands-free use. The Noise Reduction Rating is greatly improved with fewer holes in the muff caps.

Bluetooth is a very excellent add-on. Voices are clear, and gunshots are minimal. It is a little bulkier than other units but worth it. Very comfortable to wear all afternoon.

Spec:

Features:

• Advanced Digital Circuit
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Variable Dynamic Sound Suppression
• Hi Gain Omni Directional Mics
• Four Listening Modes

1. Universal
2. Speech Clarity Mode
3. Hi Frequency
4. Power Boost

• Voice Mode Navigation
• Wind Noise Reduction
• Auto Shut Off
• New Ergonomic Head Band Design
• Controls Moved To Headband
• Fewer Holes In The Muff Cups To Improve NRR
• Rubber Bumpers On Lower Cup
• Low Battery Warning

Click Here to check the current prices of the Walkers XCEL 500BT Digital Electronic Ear Muff

ATN X-Sound Hearing Protector Earmuffs reduce harmful loud noise to safe levels below 82 dB and enhance the clarity of surrounding low-level sounds such as conversations and announcements.

The ergonomic volume control knob allows for total adjustment of the two built-in Omni-directional microphones, while built-in wireless capability enables hands-free calling and music enjoyment. Or, connect a playing device via the 3.5 mm audio jack.

These will protect your hearing from damaging loud noise at the range and allow you to wirelessly stream audio via Bluetooth without compromising comfort.

A combination of sound-dampening construction and a sound-activated compression circuit with an ultrafast reaction time offers 22+ dB of noise reduction to lower loud sounds to safe levels.

Dual control knobs on the left earcup enable separate adjustments to the volume of the surrounding ambient sound and your connected media audio.

The headphones can be paired with your smartphone or other Bluetooth-compatible devices to listen to music or podcasts or answer calls with the two built-in omnidirectional microphones.

Using two AAA batteries, the headphones have a runtime of up to 300 hours, thanks to their low power consumption.

Their compact, folding design allows them to be easily stored in a bag for the on-the-go.

Specs:

Features:

• Bluetooth wireless technology
• Ultra-low-profile ear cups
• Audio input jack
• Two hi-gain Omni directional microphones
• Recessed volume control knob
• Compact folding design
• Pair to smartphone and make calls/listen to music

Click Here to check the current prices of the ATN X-Sound Hearing Protector Earmuffs

With high gain and Omnidirectional microphones, the Walker’s Ultimate Power Muff Quads were developed to be the ideal pair of muffs for any shooter looking for high-quality ear protection and enhancement.

These feature recessed volume and AFT control knobs, so you never hurt your eardrums with an accidental volume raise.

The Walker’s Quad Ultimate Power Muff has a compact folding design, a comfortable headband w/ wire metal frame, low profile ear cups, and a sound-dampening composite housing that makes it incredibly durable, easy to transport, and comfortable to wear.

Walker’s Game Ear Ultimate Power Muff Quads give you maximum hearing protection from loud noises while enhancing hearing up to 9 times.

Made with a proprietary blend of sound-dampening composite materials, these earmuffs can have a very effective noise reduction rating (NRR) of up to 27dB while maintaining their slim profile that doesn’t interfere with gunstocks.

The hearing enhancement uses four hi-gain Omni directional microphones, adjustable frequency tuning (AFT), and two independent volume controls.

Walker’s Game Ear Ultimate Power Muff Quads are comfortable to wear and fold up compactly for easy transport to and from the range. These operate on 2 AAA batteries which are included.

Specs:

Features:

• Four Hi Gain Omni Directional Microphones
• Low Noise / Frequency tuned for natural sound clarity
• Independent Volume Control
• Independent Adjustable Frequency Tuning
• Compact Folding Design
• Comfort headband w/ metal wire frame
• Sound-dampening composite housing
• NRR 24dB
• Sound Activated Compression – 0.02 second reaction time
• Low Profile Ear Cups
• Recessed Volume / AFT Control Knobs
• External Battery Door
• Operates on 2 “AAA” batteries included

Click Here to check the current prices of the Walker’s Ultimate Power Muff Quads

Pro Ears Gold Series Advantage Hearing Protection is the balance achieved between comfort, noise attenuation, and purity of sound.

Real audiophiles understand that for purity of sound, an analog sound system is superior to a digital sound system; however, digital systems can correct imperfections or enhance and modify sound better than analog systems.

Most active hearing protectors or stereo headphones employ one technology or the other. Engineers at Pro-Ears were not willing to compromise for simplicity or cost.

The result is the hybrid digital/analog system found exclusively in the Pro-Ears Hearing Protectors from Gold Series. Clear sound, clear commands, real advantage.

To further enhance the natural sound quality Pro Ears uses gold connectors and high-quality amplifiers and microphones to reduce impedance.

Pro Ears’ proprietary software reduces interference caused by wind while enhancing the sounds you want to hear. Advancements to Pro Ears’ exclusive DLSC technology for compression turn a sound impulse wave from a gunshot into a soft, audible pop.

Finely engineered circuitry with proprietary programming has reduced attack time to 1.5 milliseconds. They provide adjustable gain control to adjust the industry-leading sound amplification to match your situational needs.

A single circuit board controls most electronic hearing protectors.  A circuit board in each cup means no wires to get hung up during a forced entry.

In a rough situation where your ear muffs get banged around or dropped, one damaged circuit board will not knock out your whole system.

The ability to adjust each cup to match your hearing profile is part of the competitive advantage. 8 X sound amplification lets you hear them before they hear you.

There is an unavoidable trade-off in designing Pro-Ears earmuffs between compression of the headband and noise attenuation. Sound pressure waves penetrate hearing protectors through the cup, ear cushion, and any gap separating the cushion and the surface of your head.

One way to reduce gaps is to squeeze the cups to your head tightly. The problem with this approach is that the tighter the squeeze, the greater the headache.

This is particularly true if the ear cushion does not balance the resistance and compensate for the headband compression, which causes the hard cup material to press against your head. Most people only wear uncomfortable earmuffs for short periods, so their hearing is at greater risk.

Pro-Ears designers have found a method to reduce the gaps and increase the effectiveness of the ear cushions. Pro-Ears’ use of visco-elastic foams and exclusive Pro Form leather in our ear cushion provides an optimum balance of noise attenuation and resistance to headband compression.

An LED light tucked into the ear muff informs you your system is working. An audible low battery alert warns you to change your battery before it fails.

Military-grade circuit boards reduce failure due to handling and the elements. The auto shut-off feature extends battery life, so you can count on power when needed.

Features:

• Medium profile cup is perfect for most firearms
• Excellent choice for the K9 officer or traffic cop
• Maintain situational awareness while on the flight line or engine room
• For use on outdoor handgun ranges, comfortable all-day wear
• For moderate to high noise environments; better noise reduction than most foam earplugs
• The lighter weight makes this more appropriate for FLEOs in a high-noise environment
• Apple iPod, CD, motor sports scanner, or radio compatible using a 3.5 mm mini jack. Enjoy high-fidelity sound while protecting your hearing
• Listen to only communications

Click Here to check the current prices of the Pro Ears Gold Series Advantage Hearing Protection

Grab a pair of these Safariland TCI Liberator Hearing Protection Earmuffs for crisp, clear audio designed to protect your hearing during work-related or tactical operations.

The first of its kind, these Protective Ear Muffs developed by the experts at Safariland tout industry-leading sound localization that helps you discern sounds in the environment and situational awareness to stay on top of your surroundings.

With the Safariland TCI Liberator Hearing Protection/Comm Headset, you can choose between 3 distinct hearing protection modes: active noise reduction, active noise cancellation, and both simultaneously.

These hearing protection ear muffs have a slim earcup design that enhances their ability to block outside noise and a speed-change battery compartment that boosts their runtime and extends their runtime time and battery life.

Also, these ear muffs have a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 26 decibels, providing the protection you need to communicate in unsafe situations properly.

These are great quality, the top-notch materials, and the gel cups are incredibly comfortable. The gel cups help to prevent headaches after hours of wearing them.

Specs:

Features:

• First-of-its-kind multi-mode adjustability providing Active Noise Reduction (ANR), Active Noise Cancellation, and both simultaneously
• 3 Distinct hearing protection modes:

1. ENHANCED MODE Blocks dangerous impulse noise while enhancing nearby speech and audio
2. MOVE MODE Blocks all external noise
3. CLARITY MODE Blocks all external noise while enhancing nearby speech and audio

• Industry-leading sound localization for maximum situational awareness and sound detection
• Slim earcup design layered with sound barrier technology
• High-definition speakers with improved electronics
• Speed-change battery compartment works with either two AAA batteries or one CR123 battery
• 160-300 hour run time (mode dependent)
• Noise reduction rating (NRR) of 26dB

Click Here to check the current prices of the Safariland TCI Liberator Hearing Protection Earmuffs