As an audiologist and a Michigander, I've had countless patients who love to participate in hunting and shooting. While hunting can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, it's essential to understand the dangers of firearm noise exposure.
Perhaps you can relate to this example: Jim absolutely loves hunting with his buddies every deer season. It's his favorite time of the year, and they always have a blast out in the wilderness.
But recently, Jim's story took a bit of a turn and crossed paths with mine. He came into my clinic with worsening hearing and this terrible ringing in his ears after his shotgun went off. If you're a hunter, you may have experienced this yourself or know someone who has. Protecting your ears while shooting is crucial to maintaining your hearing health and avoiding shooter's ear or tinnitus.
Fortunately, many options are available for hearing protection, and selecting the right one can make a massive difference in safety and performance.
Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a beginner, investing in good hearing protection might be one of the smartest decisions you ever make. And don't worry, there are so many options out there now that are much more comfortable than you might think.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll cover the types of hearing protection required for shooting, what to look for in hearing protection, and the options available.
- Good hearing protection at the gun range is a must. Options include earplugs and muffs, with both options available in passive and electronic forms.
- Think NRR, comfort, fit and battery life when selecting hearing protection for shooting.
- We like EP Sonic Defenders Plus, Decibullz Custom Molded, and Walker's Silencer BT 2.0 for shooting earplugs.
- Our favorite earmuffs for shooting include Walker's Razor Slim, Peltor Sport Tactical 500, AXIL TRACKR, and Green Devil is our kid's pick.
- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
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Featured in this article
2025's Best Hearing Protection for Shooting
The following section will delve into a list of the best hearing protection for shooters. Each item on this list has been thoroughly checked for factors such as NRR, comfort, fit, and battery life. These options cater to diverse preferences and needs, ranging from earmuffs and protective earbuds to electronic hearing protection devices.
Whether you prioritize comfort, superior noise reduction, or long battery life, you'll find an option that suits you. Remember: investing in the proper ear protection is a step towards preserving your hearing health for years. Let's proceed to our top picks.
Check out our top picks for 2025 👇
EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus
- Dual-mode protection: Filter caps let you switch between full noise reduction and ambient sound.
- Secure fit: EarLock retention rings hold earplugs in place during movement or gear use.
- All-day comfort: Soft, medical-grade polymer and triple-flanged stems reduce ear fatigue.
- Gear compatible: Low-profile design works with helmets, masks, and earmuffs.
The SureFire EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra are reusable earplugs designed for users who need reliable hearing protection without compromising comfort or situational awareness.
- The 24dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) with filter caps in provides solid protection in loud environments, while the open-cap option allows safe sound levels through—useful for conversations or ambient awareness when needed.
- Flexible triple-flanged stems and EarLock retention rings combine for a secure, consistent fit that stays put even under helmets, hats, or masks, making them suitable for extended wear across a variety of settings.
These earplugs are a practical option for anyone seeking a balance between protection, comfort, and adaptability—whether on the job, at the range, or in noisy recreational settings.
- Strong Noise Protection: Users consistently praise the 24dB noise reduction with filter caps in, especially in loud environments like shooting ranges or construction sites.
- Situational Awareness Option: Many appreciate the ability to remove the caps to hear ambient sounds at safe levels, making them versatile for both protection and communication.
- Secure and Comfortable Fit: The EarLock design and soft triple-flanged tips are frequently noted for providing a snug, stable fit that stays in place during active use.
- Works Well with Gear: Reviewers like how the low-profile design fits comfortably under masks, helmets, and earmuffs without pressure or shifting.
- Fit Isn’t Perfect for Everyone: A few users with smaller or uniquely shaped ear canals found the fit less comfortable, mentioning it may take some adjustment to get right.
- 24dB NRR with caps in for strong noise protection
- Open-cap mode allows safe-level sound through for better awareness
- Comfortable for extended wear with soft, hypoallergenic materials
- Fits securely even during physical activity or use with headgear
- Reusable and easy to clean, offering long-term value
- Fit may not suit all ear shapes, especially smaller canals
- Filter cap toggling may be inconvenient in some scenarios
- Some users report a learning curve in getting a proper seal
- Not ideal for those looking for total sound isolation
Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs
- Custom Fit: Thermo-fit design molds to your ears for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Clear Sound: High-fidelity filters reduce volume without distorting audio quality.
- Reusable & Remoldable: Can be reshaped multiple times to maintain a perfect fit.
- Stable in Use: Won’t fall out during concerts, sports, or active movement.
The Decibullz High-Fidelity Custom Molded Earplugs combine tailored comfort with reliable hearing protection, making them a practical pick for users needing long-wear earplugs that don’t distort sound.
- The moldable design allows for a secure, personalized fit that stays in place, offering comfort and stability for extended use—whether at concerts, sporting events, or noisy workspaces.
- A built-in high-fidelity filter reduces volume without muffling clarity, helping preserve natural sound quality while protecting your ears from prolonged exposure to loud noise.
These earplugs are especially well-suited for people who want to protect their hearing without sacrificing audio detail or comfort.
- Secure, Custom Fit: Many users highlight the personalized molding process as a game-changer, noting the earplugs stay put even during long events or active use.
- Comfortable for Long Wear: The soft material and tailored fit make them comfortable for hours, with fewer pressure points compared to standard earplugs.
- Clear, Natural Sound: Users consistently praise the high-fidelity filters for preserving audio clarity while still lowering overall volume—especially appreciated at concerts and shows.
- Reusable and Remoldable: Buyers like that the earplugs can be reshaped if the first fit isn’t quite right, adding long-term value.
- Effective Noise Reduction: While not designed to block all sound, users report a noticeable drop in volume that protects hearing without feeling cut off.
Most agree they offer a strong mix of comfort, sound clarity, and reliable protection.
- Molds to the unique shape of your ear for lasting comfort
- Includes multiple tip sizes for different ear shapes
- Fully remoldable for repeat use
- Stays in place even during physical activity
- Comes with a compact carrying case for portability
- Molding process may take practice to get right
- Not designed for complete noise isolation
- Fit quality depends on proper setup and reshaping
- May not suit users seeking maximum noise blocking
Walker's Silencer BT 2.0
- Noise Reduction: 24 NRR helps reduce exposure to loud environments while preserving situational awareness.
- Improved Stability: Upgraded left/right earbud connection minimizes audio dropouts during use.
- Smartphone Control: Companion app lets users adjust volume and settings directly from their device.
- Rechargeable Convenience: Built-in battery supports extended use without frequent recharging.
The Walker’s Silencer BT 2.0 is a wireless in-ear hearing protection option designed for users who want more control and convenience during high-noise activities like shooting or hunting. It blends noise reduction with modern features for a more flexible listening experience.
- The 24 NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) helps reduce exposure to harmful sound levels, supporting hearing protection in loud environments without blocking out important ambient sounds.
- With improved battery life, stable left/right earbud connections, and app-based controls, users can manage settings, audio, and performance directly from their smartphone—ideal for adapting to different environments on the fly.
This model is well-suited to users looking for hearing protection that doesn’t compromise on connectivity or ease of use.
- Reliable Hearing Protection: Many users praise the 24 NRR for effectively reducing loud noise while still allowing some situational awareness during shooting or range sessions.
- Comfort May Vary: Some users find the fit comfortable for extended wear, though others note that the earbuds may not suit all ear shapes equally.
- Control App Adds Value: The companion app gets positive feedback for allowing easy control over volume and settings, though a few users mention a learning curve.
- Not for Audiophiles: While sound quality is decent for casual listening, a few users say it’s not designed for high-fidelity audio.
Overall, reviewers find the Silencer BT 2.0 to be a dependable, feature-rich option for hearing protection with added tech convenience.
- 24 NRR provides solid protection during shooting or other loud activities
- App offers remote control over audio settings and device functionality
- Rechargeable battery supports extended use without replacing batteries
- Bluetooth support allows for music playback and hands-free calls
- Fit may not be comfortable for all ear shapes or extended wear
- Sound quality is functional but not suited for audiophiles
- Some report app functionality could be better
- Not the longest battery life
Walker's Razor Slim Electronic Muff
- Fast Sound Compression: Reacts in 0.02 seconds to reduce sudden loud noises.
- Dual Volume Controls: Independent dials for each ear allow tailored sound levels.
- Slim Profile Design: Lightweight and low-profile for comfortable all-day wear.
- Clear, Balanced Audio: HD speakers tuned for natural, intelligible sound at the range.
The Walker’s Razor Slim Electronic Muff stands out for those seeking dependable hearing protection without compromising situational awareness. Its slim, low-profile design combines functionality with ease of wear, making it suitable for extended use at the range.
- Sound-activated compression with a 0.02-second reaction time helps protect your hearing from sudden gunfire while still allowing key sounds like voices and range commands to come through clearly.
- Independent volume controls and dual omnidirectional microphones offer greater control over audio input, supporting a more customized and responsive listening experience.
With a 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating and HD speakers tuned for clarity, this model balances protection with audio performance. It’s well-suited for users who want reliable noise reduction in a design that remains comfortable over long periods.
- Clear Sound in Loud Settings: Many users praise the Razor Slim for maintaining crisp audio even during live fire, making it easier to hear range commands and conversations.
- Comfortable for Extended Wear: The low-profile design and lightweight build are appreciated for reducing ear fatigue during long shooting sessions.
- Easy Volume Control: Independent volume knobs for each ear are frequently mentioned as a useful feature, offering more personalized sound adjustment.
- Effective Noise Protection: Users consistently report that the 23 dB noise reduction offers solid hearing protection without feeling disconnected from their environment.
- Good Value for the Price: While not the most advanced option, buyers say the sound quality and reliability offer strong value for casual or regular range use.
Most agree it’s a dependable pick for range-goers seeking balanced protection and awareness.
- Quick compression time helps protect hearing from sudden gunfire
- Independent volume controls offer personalized audio levels
- Dual microphones support clear sound from all directions
- 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating balances safety with awareness
- Operates on standard AAA batteries
- Battery life may require frequent changes with regular use
- Volume knobs may be hard to adjust with gloves
- Not Bluetooth-compatible
- Lacks rechargeable battery option
Peltor Sport Tactical 500
- Noise Suppression: Automatically reduces loud gunfire while preserving ambient sound for awareness.
- Bluetooth Integration: Allows wireless audio streaming and phone calls without removing protection.
- Comfort Fit: Adjustable headband and soft ear cushions reduce fatigue during extended use.
- Dual Use: Suitable for both indoor range sessions and outdoor hunting environments.
The Peltor Sport Tactical 500 earmuffs strike a practical balance between hearing protection, situational awareness, and modern convenience. Designed with shooters in mind, they’re built to perform well in both indoor ranges and outdoor environments.
- A 26 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) helps protect hearing from loud gunfire, while the electronic design suppresses harmful noise without blocking out low-level sounds—useful for staying aware of your surroundings.
- Built-in Bluetooth allows for wireless audio streaming and phone calls, letting users stay connected without removing their hearing protection.
With reliable noise suppression and Bluetooth functionality in one unit, the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 is a strong choice for those wanting comfort and connectivity during range time.
- Reliable Hearing Protection: Users consistently praise the 26 dB NRR, noting it effectively reduces gunfire noise without blocking out essential range commands.
- Clear Ambient Sound: Many appreciate how well the electronic suppression distinguishes between loud and low-level sounds, helping them stay alert and aware.
- Bluetooth Adds Convenience: The built-in Bluetooth is a standout feature, with users finding it useful for listening to music or taking calls between rounds.
- Comfort for Long Sessions: Soft ear cushions and an adjustable fit make the earmuffs comfortable to wear for extended periods, even during full-day use.
- Sturdy, Not Bulky: While not the lightest option, users say the design feels durable without being overly heavy or cumbersome.
Overall, the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 earns strong marks for blending protection, awareness, and convenience.
- 26 dB NRR provides solid hearing protection for shooting activities
- Bluetooth allows hands-free calls and music streaming on the range
- Gel ear cushions offer better comfort for prolonged wear
- Smart technology preserves situational awareness
- Works well in both indoor and outdoor settings
- Some users find the controls hard to adjust with gloves
- Slightly bulkier than some alternatives
- Initial Bluetooth pairing may take a few tries
AXIL TRACKR™ Electronic Earmuffs
- Dual Functionality: Amplifies quiet sounds while reducing loud noise for safety and situational awareness.
- Noise Compression: Automatically limits sounds above 85 dB to protect hearing in loud settings.
- Outdoor-Ready: Sweat and water-resistant build makes it suitable for variable weather conditions.
- Comfortable Fit: Slim profile and metal-wire headband provide a secure yet comfortable fit for long sessions.
The AXIL TRACKR™ Electronic Earmuffs combine hearing protection and sound amplification in a slim, user-friendly design, making them suitable for a wide range of noisy environments—from shooting ranges to construction sites.
- Their noise compression technology reduces all sounds over 85 dB while amplifying quieter sounds by up to 40 dB, helping users stay aware of their surroundings without compromising on protection.
- Sweat and water-resistant with a metal-wire headband, they’re built for comfort and durability in outdoor conditions, even during long periods of wear.
These earmuffs also include an AUX port for added versatility, allowing them to double as standard headphones. The AXIL TRACKR™ is a practical pick for users needing reliable hearing protection without losing environmental awareness.
- Reliable Hearing Protection: Users consistently praise how well these earmuffs block out loud, damaging noise during shooting, construction, and yard work.
- Comfort for Extended Use: The slim design and adjustable headband are well-received, especially by those wearing them for several hours at a time.
- Built for the Outdoors: Reviewers highlight their durability and water resistance, saying they hold up well in varying weather conditions.
Overall, users find them dependable and well-suited for both work and recreation.
- Reduces harmful noise while enhancing quiet sounds
- AUX port allows use as standard noise-isolating headphones
- Durable build with sweat and water resistance
- Compact and lightweight for easier portability
- May not fully eliminate wind noise in extreme conditions
- Some users report a tight fit
- Static reported by some users
Green Devil Kids Earmuffs
- Noise Reduction: 27dB NRR helps protect kids’ hearing during loud events and reduces overstimulation.
- Comfortable Fit: Soft ear cushions and padded headband support all-day comfort without pressure.
- Adjustable for Growth: Headband adjusts to fit ages 1–16, making it suitable for long-term use.
- Portable Design: Lightweight and foldable, easy to pack for travel or outings.
The Green Devil Kids Earmuffs offer reliable hearing protection designed specifically for children, with a balance of comfort, practicality, and ease of use. Suitable for ages 1 to 16, they’re built to reduce environmental noise in a wide range of loud settings.
- The 27dB noise reduction rating helps protect sensitive hearing and supports emotional regulation by reducing overstimulation, ideal for noisy environments like airshows, fireworks, or concerts.
- A lightweight, foldable design with soft ear cushions and an adjustable headband ensures comfort over long periods without adding pressure, making them suitable for extended wear at public events or during travel.
They’re also available in bright, kid-friendly colors, making them easy to spot and more appealing for children to wear consistently.
In short, these earmuffs provide practical, child-focused protection without compromising on comfort or usability.
- Comfortable for Long Wear: The soft padding and adjustable headband get frequent praise for keeping kids comfortable, even during extended use.
- Easy to Pack and Carry: Users appreciate the compact folding design, making these earmuffs easy to store and bring along on trips.
- Kid-Approved Looks: Bright colors are a hit with children and help parents keep track of them in busy environments.
- Fits a Wide Age Range: Many mention the adjustable sizing works well across different ages, from toddlers to teens.
Overall, users see these as a practical choice for protecting young ears in loud settings without sacrificing comfort.
- Effective 27dB noise reduction helps prevent hearing damage
- Soft padding and ergonomic headband enhance comfort for kids
- Foldable, lightweight build makes it travel-friendly
- Fits a wide age range from toddlers to teens
- Complies with U.S. and European safety standards
- May feel bulky on smaller children under age 3
- Not electronic - no volume control or active noise cancelling
- Bright colors may not appeal to all children
- Limited ventilation could cause heat buildup during extended wear
Understanding Your Options
Some options offer Bluetooth capability and hearing protection in one, allowing you to take phone calls or listen to your favorite music without removing the headgear. In contrast, other options simply provide impulse sound protection designed to reduce the harmful effects of sudden blasts of noise. Finding the device that fits your needs and preferences is crucial to ensure maximum protection and comfort.
There are many options when it comes to hearing protection for shooting, including earmuffs, protective earbuds, earplugs, and electronic hearing protection.
- Earmuffs are a popular choice, but bulky for some.
- Protective earbuds offer a low-profile solution, while compact earplugs are easy to carry but require proper fit and application.
- Electronic hearing protection devices provide maximum protection while allowing you to hear range commands but are typically the priciest option. With so much variety, be sure to do your research to find the best fit for you.
How We Selected
At Soundly, we are a team of experts and testers dedicated to evaluating products through our rigorous testing protocol. We selected hearing protection for our list based on several critical factors: Noise Reduction Rating (NRR), comfort, fit, and convenience features. We've put together this list with our top selections to help you enjoy your favorite outdoor activities while safeguarding your hearing.
Factors to Consider
So now let's break this down so that you know how to make the best choice for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when evaluating hearing protection:
- NRR: Look for a high noise reduction rating for maximum effectiveness.
- Comfort: Find a snug fit that doesn't compromise on comfort.
- Fit: Ensure proper fit to provide optimal protection.
- Battery life: If using active noise-reduction technology, choose a device with a robust battery life to avoid interruptions during extended hunting or shooting sessions.
NRR
NRR is a rating system that measures the effectiveness of hearing protection against noise. The higher the NRR, the better the protection. When shopping for ear protection for hunting or shooting, look for products tested and certified by regulatory agencies like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the European Union (CE). These certifications ensure the product has been thoroughly tested and meets safety and performance standards.
I recommend double hearing protection when engaging in shooting sports. While a gunshot is brief, it is a very intense impulse sound that sometimes reaches 140 dB(A) or more. With double hearing protection, OSHA estimates the attenuation at the higher NRR of the two devices plus 5 dB.
For example, if you wear a pair of earplugs with 25 dB NRR and a pair of earmuffs with 30 dB NRR, the level of hearing protection is 30 dB + 5 dB for a total NRR of 35 dB. Aiming for double hearing protection with a minimum NRR of 30 is recommended.
Investing in quality hearing protection is necessary for anyone who regularly exposes themselves to loud noise. Whether at an outdoor shooting range, hunting, or shooting at an indoor range, it's vital to protect your ears from the potential damage caused by loud sounds.
You want to look for a product that offers a high noise reduction rating, indicating its effectiveness at reducing sound.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit are also critical when it comes to hearing protection. If your ear protection is uncomfortable or doesn't fit properly, you'll be less likely to wear it and less protected from loud noise. Look for ear protection that fits snugly but comfortably over your ears, and consider earplugs that mold to the shape of your ear canal for a personalized fit.
Protecting your hearing should be a top priority, especially if you're at the gun range. When choosing hearing protection, comfort and fit are crucial considerations. If you opt for earmuffs, they should fit snugly over your ears without causing any discomfort. On the other hand, if you prefer earplugs, ensure they fit perfectly into your ear canal, providing a tight seal.
No matter which type you choose, remember that the right fit is critical to ensure optimal hearing protection. By investing in comfortable and properly fitting hearing protection, you can safeguard your ears from long-term damage and enjoy peace of mind knowing you're taking steps to protect one of your most precious senses.
Battery Life
Battery life is essential, especially for devices using active noise-reduction technology. These devices run on batteries to filter out unwanted noise.
If you're a hunter who requires hearing protection for extended durations, the last thing you need is for your device to run out of power during an expedition. Whether battery-powered or rechargeable, you'll want to ensure everything runs smoothly.
A device with a robust battery life will ensure consistent and effective noise reduction throughout your hunting or shooting session. Always consider devices that provide a longer battery life, and remember to have spare batteries or a power source on standby whenever possible.
This way, you can rest assured that your auditory safety is not compromised at any point due to power issues.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your hearing while shooting isn't optional, it's essential. Exposure to the loud sounds of firearms without proper protection can lead to long-term hearing issues, which is why investing in quality hearing protection is so important.
The best hearing protection is simply the one you'll actually wear consistently. Whether you prefer the simplicity of earplugs, the coverage of earmuffs, or the advanced features of electronic options, finding something comfortable that meets your specific shooting environment needs is what matters most.
Consider hearing protection as fundamental to your shooting gear as your firearm itself. The small investment you make today in protecting your hearing can help maintain one of your most valuable senses for years to come.
Your ears will thank you.
