The range is the perfect place to use firearms in a safe and secure environment. Yet there are risks associated with firearm use. Individuals that use firearms are more likely to experience hearing loss. That’s because most firearms operate at above 140 decibels. Wearing adequate ear protection can help reduce the damage caused by firearm noise.

Ear defenders can also protect from tinnitus, an underlying symptom where you hear ringing in the ears. Ear protection also prevents shooter’s ear where hearing loss is specific to the ear you hold a gun up to. Fortunately, there are many ways of protecting hearing when at the range

Noise Reducing Headphones

Noise reducing headphones protect the ears from loud firearms, while also allowing you to hear lower frequency sounds. This allows you to pick up on safety commands and communication while preventing the louder decibels from damaging the ear. Noise cancellingheadphones may not be recommended due to safety concerns, while noise reducing headphones filter out firearm noise specifically.

Top quality hearing care providers will be able to advise on a suitable model of hearing protection at the range. Many brands cater to the specific firearm adjusted shape to sit alongside a rifle butt. It also make them easy to transport and pack away after use.

Earmuffs

Earmuffs are not just those wooly things you use to protect the ears in winter. Specialist earmuffs are shaped like headphones, and there are many with electronic components that block out noise at the range. The aim of earmuffs is to create a seal between the earmuffs and the head. Talk to a hearing health professional for advice on the best earmuffs to reduce firearm noise.

Hunting Earplugs

There are earplugs specifically adapted for hunting and shooting. Earplugs allow you to still hear safety signals. However, they will shut out extremely loud noises from gunshots. One size-fits-all earplugs are best as they reduce sound evenly. Banded earplugs are also available, as they mold to the shape of the head and help secure the earplugs in place.

While earplugs are better than no protection for handling firearms, a hearing care provider may advise you to use them in combination with earmuffs or headphones. This is because prolonged exposure to noise from a firearm can damage the bones in the ear. A hearing care professional will advise on the best models to use in combination.

Electronic Vs. Non-Linear Hearing Protective Devices

Hearing protective devices refer to ear defenders of different types. Electronic hearing protective devices are ideal for the range as they allow you to hear safety signals, while making loud noises quieter by reducing the noise. Non-linear devices refer to earplugs or molds without electronic components. Non-linear devices with filters will still help reduce loud noises without blocking out softer sounds. Using non-linear and electronic hearing protective devices in tandem will most effectively protect your ears from firearm noise.

Do you need hearing protection at the range? Yes! Ear protection will reduce the impact of firearm noises and allow you to enjoy safe and recreational firearm use, while reducing the risk of hearing loss. Studies also suggest that muzzle suppressors are still the most effective way of reducing firearm noises. Using a combination of plugs, electronic ear defenders and a muzzle suppressor may be the safest way to enjoy a visit to the range.

Want to learn more? Give Texas Professional Hearing Center a call at (281) 691-6633, and our audiologists will be happy to help!

Tags: shooting, tips