[chele519]

I'm not sure if the headband part is bigger so that these don't fit that tightly anymore but mine don't seem to be as good anymore. Do they get worse over time? Going to a gun show tomorrow so I'm thinking maybe I should look for new ones.

[tipoc]

Yes they do lose effectiveness. Depending on type and construction, some more rapidly than others but over time they about all wear out.

tipoc

[GRIZ22]

The headbands loosen up, the seals around the ears get looser, and the foam noise insulation deteriorates over time.

[Mal H]

Right, if the foam insulation starts hardening, as some foams do, it will definitely lose some effectiveness. But, that will take a while depending on how and where the muffs are stored.

Why not use ear plugs along with the muffs, you get the best noise protection from that combo.

[chele519]

I do plan to start also using the ear plugs in addition to muffs but these are over 20 years old and I don't know what the db rating was. I've seen some new Peltor with 30db rating for around $20 so I will look around tomorrow. I know that the foam cushioning in my running shoes deteriorates over time just sitting on the shelf so I thought these might have the same issue.

[KBintheSLC]

I do plan to start also using the ear plugs in addition to muffs

That is usually what I do as well... especially at the indoor ranges. If you do not require electronic muffs, you can get a nice pair for cheap. If you are using 20-year-old protection, it may be time for an update.

[chevyforlife21]

what about re using disposable ear plugs? i have been doing so for over a year.

[Trebor]

20 years is a long time to use the same set of muffs. The material just does "rot", for lack of a better word, over time.

New muffs are cheap. I recommend those Peltors that are rated at 30 db. They are what I use. When shooting indoors I double-up with plugs underneath. (Sometimes outdoors as well).

As for reusing disposable plugs, I wouldn't use the same set for a year. Here's a tip: You can buy them in bulk cheaper at Wal Mart or even a drug store then you can at a gun shop or range. I reuse mine too, but not for a year per pair. I usually toss 'em when they start looking pretty grimy and grab a new set from the package.

[chele519]

I only recently started going to the range again so those ear muffs hadn't been used in many years. The first time I went to the range a few weeks ago they seemed ok. Last week someone was firing something that sounded like a cannon and everytime I heard it I was startled.

I'm going to be buying some mags for a new .22 at CDNN. Anyone familiar with the Peltor that are rated 23db? They are blue and say they fold for storage. They are $4.99 and since I'm going to be paying shipping anyway, I'd rather get what I can at one place. if not, I'll just get the 30.

On the disposable, you can also buy a bulk pack at Home Depot that isn't priced bad.

[Bentonville]

I got a set of these after many years of using the Peltor Ultimate 10. There are superior. They are worth every penny. I use foam plugs rated at 33 NRR under them. I wish I had supressors for all my guns but this arrangement is the best that I can afford. The muffs are thick and head band substantial. Often the headband is what actually makes muffs fit properly. I have tried those folding one before and they just didn't do well for me.
Pro Ears makes a great eletronic muff as well but these fit my needs.
Don't save money on hearing protection.
http://store.altusbrands.com/product_p/pe-33-u%20shooting.htm