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When participating in shooting sports and hunting, protecting your hearing should be at the top of your list of priorities. The intense noise generated by gunfire can lead to lasting hearing damage, as a 12g shotgun can generate a decibel level of between 150 - 170dB and a .243 rifle producing upwards of 160dB. It is extremely important to mitigate the risk of permanent hearing damage by ensuring you are wearing adequate shooting ear defenders whilst shooting. Using proper ear protection isn’t just about keeping your hearing safe, it’s also about ensuring you can enjoy your favourite hunts for many seasons to come.
Exposure to loud noises over a long period of time can cause irreversible hearing loss. Generally it is considered that sounds below 70dBA are safe for your hearing and sound at 85dBa and above can lead to permanent hearing damage if exposed to these levels for long periods of time.
Shooting Ear Defenders Safety Ratings
Now that we know how damaging to your hearing shooting can be with an estimated decibel rating of up to 160dB, it is important to choose a set of shooting ear defenders that are fit for purpose and will provide you with adequate hearing protection. So what exactly do you need to consider when searching for a set of shooting ear defenders to ensure that they will provide you with a good level of hearing protection?
Noise Reduction Rating
The decibel rating on shooting ear defenders, also known as the noise reduction rating or NRR, measures how effective the ear defenders are at reducing noise levels. The higher the NRR means the greater level of noise reduction you will receive. For example, if a set of shooting ear defenders have a NRR of 25dB, they are reducing the noise reaching your ears by 25dB. So in a scenario where you may be shotgun shooting, producing dB levels of around 150dB and you are wearing shooting ear defenders with an NRR of 25dB, the noise exposure reaching your ears would be 125dB (150dB - 25dB). So if we were to take into consideration that you are at a greater risk of hearing damage above 85dB, whilst searching for a set of shooting ear defenders we should be aiming to reduce dB levels to as close to 85dB at the ear as possible.
Single Number Rating
Single number rating or SNR is a value that measures how well hearing protection reduces noise. The SNR is an average value that indicates how much noise a hearing protection product can reduce. A higher SNR means more protection. A SNR can be used to compare different hearing protection products and determine the right level of protection needed. To calculate the acoustic pressure on your ears, subtract the SNR from the average noise level you are being exposed to. For example, if the noise level is 150dB and the SNR is 30, the acoustic pressure on your ears would be 120dB.
In this post, we will compare two popular options: the 3M Peltor SportTac and the Decibullz Custom Moulded Percussive Earplugs. Each has unique features, benefits, and drawbacks. Let’s explore which might be the best fit for your needs.
Overview of the 3M Peltor SportTac
The 3M Peltor SportTac is a well-known choice among hunters and shooters. These electronic earmuffs are crafted to protect from loud noises while amplifying ambient sounds, such as conversations and wildlife noises. This feature is invaluable for many hunters who need to stay aware of their environment. You can view the full stats of the 3M Peltor SportTac shooting ear defenders over on Peltor's Amazon storefront here https://amzn.to/40fyFjc.
The SportTac shooting ear defenders utilizes sound-dampening technology that activates when noises exceed a threshold of approximately 82dB. They automatically block harmful sounds while allowing you to hear softer sounds. The adjustable headband and soft ear cushions enhance overall comfort, even during extended use. The electronic sound amplification of the 3M Peltor SportTac shooting ear defenders are quite impressive, allowing you to have a full conversation whilst sharing a pigeon hide without removing your ear defenders.
Key features include:
Electronic Sound Amplification: This allows you to hear conversations clearly while blocking out harmful noise.
Adjustable Volume Control: Tailor the amplification to suit your environment.
Comfortable Design: Padded ear cushions and an adjustable headband ensure a secure fit and convenient storage.
600 hours of operating time with new batteries / Automatic shutdown after 2 hours of inactivity. Requires 2 x AAA batteries.
SNR of 26dB.
Weighing in at 318g.
It is important to note the SNR of the 3M Peltor SportTac shooting ear defenders and take into consideration the level of hearing protection they provide using the basic calculations mentioned above.
Overview of the Decibullz Custom Moulded Percussive Earplugs
In contrast, the Decibullz Custom Moulded Percussive Earplugs offer a different approach to hearing protection. These earplugs can be custom-moulded to fit your ear shape, enhancing comfort and sound isolation. This feature proves beneficial during long periods of noise exposure. Decibullz have their own storefront over on the Amazon platform, so hop on over there to take a peek at the full description of the Decibullz custom moulded percussive shooting ear defenders here https://amzn.to/40mDOWx.
Decibullz earplugs effectively handle percussive noise like gunfire while still allowing softer sounds, such as conversations, to be heard. They come with a unique moulding kit that lets you create earplugs tailored to your ears, ensuring they stay securely in place while you carry out your shooting experiences.
Key features include:
NRR of 31dB.
Custom Fit: Mould each earplug to your ear shape for exceptional comfort.
Noise Cancelling: Adequately blocks out harmful sounds while allowing lower-level sounds to be heard.
Portable and Lightweight: Easy to carry, making them an excellent choice for hunters.
Secure Fit for Active Hunts: Decibullz earplugs stay put, even with the constant movement that hunting and shooting demands.
No Interference with Gun Mounting: Unlike over-the-ear muffs, Decibullz earplugs won’t get in the way of a clean gun mount, helping you take accurate shots.
Unmatched Situational Awareness: Percussive filters reduce gunshot noise while allowing you to hear conversations, your dog’s signals, or birds flushing.
Comfortable for All-Day Wear: With a custom fit, these earplugs won’t cause discomfort, even after hours in the field.
It is important to note the NRR of the Decibullz Custom Moulded Percussive shooting ear defenders and take into consideration the level of hearing protection they provide using the basic calculations mentioned above.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit play crucial roles in your choice of ear defenders. The 3M Peltor SportTac earmuffs provide excellent cushioning and adjust to fit different head sizes. However, they may not fit well with other headgear, such as hats, which can be a drawback for some users.
On the other hand, Decibullz earplugs provide a custom mould for a snug fit. This design ensures they stay in place during movement. If you plan to wear earplugs for long durations, this tailored fit can greatly enhance your comfort.
Noise Reduction Capability
Both the 3M Peltor SportTac and Decibullz are engineered for hearing protection, but they work differently. The Peltor earmuffs offer a noise reduction rating (NRR) of about 26 dB, effectively blocking loud sounds while permitting softer noises to be heard.
In comparison, Decibullz earplugs have an impressive NRR of 31 dB, ensuring superior protection against harmful noises. This added protection is particularly beneficial if you are concerned about shooting in environments where noise levels are consistently high.
Price Considerations
Price is an important factor when selecting your shooting ear defenders. The 3M Peltor SportTac typically retails at a higher price due to its electronic features. However, many users consider this investment worthwhile for the quality and performance of these earmuffs. Check them out here https://amzn.to/40fyFjc.
Conversely, Decibullz are generally available at a lower price point, making them a budget-friendly alternative. Their custom-fit design offers valuable hearing protection without breaking the bank. This option is ideal for beginner hunters or those in search of effective, low-cost solutions. Take a peek at the price here https://amzn.to/40mDOWx.
Strengths and Weaknesses
3M Peltor SportTac
Pros:
Electronic sound amplification enhances situational awareness.
Comfortable and adjustable for different head sizes.
Durable, making them suitable for extended use.
Cons:
Higher price point compared to other options.
May not fit comfortably for everyone, particularly if wearing hats.
Decibullz Custom Moulded Earplugs
Pros:
Custom fit ensures comfort and sound isolation.
Lightweight and portable, ideal for hunters on the go.
Generally more affordable than electronic alternatives.
Cons:
Lacks electronic sound amplification.
Requires setup for moulding to achieve a custom fit.
Making the Right Choice
Selecting the right shooting ear defenders depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize electronic sound amplification and comfort during extended use, the 3M Peltor SportTac may be your ideal option. Conversely, if you want a more cost-effective, custom-fitted choice with excellent noise-blocking capabilities, the Decibullz Custom Moulded Earplugs might be a better fit.
Both options offer distinct advantages and downsides. By weighing these factors carefully, you can make an informed decision that ensures your hearing remains protected while you enjoy your time in the field. Happy shooting, and remember to keep your hearing safe!
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