Electronic Ear Muff Suggestions?

[DougB]

I realize that this may fit better in the Accessories section, but there is a similar thread there without too many responses. I'm sure we all use hearing protection, but unless we are in the market for something, we probably don't go to the Accessories section very often (at least I don't), so I'm hoping to get a little more feedback by posting here.

I think Peltor makes/markets at least six different versions of electronic muffs. I think I read on strong recommendations on TFL for a brand called "Wolf Ears" - but that was quite awhile ago, and I've never seen or heard much more about them. I know there are several other brands as well. Ideally, I'd like some that:
- Cancel loud noises smoothly, without clipping converstations more than necessary.
- Can amplify normal sounds to improve hearing of normal conversatioins, etc.
- Make it possible to identify the location of sounds.
- Are compact, and fold up.

Has anyone compared the different electronic muffs? Any recommendations?

Doug

 

[Quack]

i picked up a set of Pro-Ears Stalker's from the bargain room at Cabela's for $79. it meets the criteria that you are looking for.

 

[El Tejon]

I use Tac-7s for pistol classes. I have a pair of "Remington" slims that I use sometime for shoulder weapons (don't know who makes them for Big Green).

My fave are from Pro Ear. They rock. Should be easy to find on the web (for you, not me). I would check them out first. Expensive, but my hearing is worth the dough. YMMV.

 

[BusMaster007]

I'll second that on the Pro-Ears.

http://www.proears.com/

http://www.proear.com/

I'm looking to get a second set of either the Pro-Ears or the Remington model for use at the range with the kids while they're on the line with me.
E-muffs are one of the best tools to use, especially if you've got a pair.

 

[glockster96]

I really like my Peltor Tac-6s. They are slim and durable. I use them in 3 gun matches, and they don't mess with my cheek weld like bulkier muffs can.

 

[Kentucky Rifle]

When I bought...

..I bought the Pro-Ears "Pro-Mag" model.
I thought I was buying the best (they DO work well), but so many guys say Peltor that I'm beginning to wonder if I got the best~~or not!

KR

 

[Sactown]

My Pelto Tac-7s have been great. For indoor use I still double up.

 

[DougB]

Thanks for the link to the Pro-Ears web site and other information. I have several sets of the Peltor folding (non-electronic) muffs that I like very well. They probalby don't have as high a sound protection rating as some larger muffs, but I find them comfortable, they never interfere with my rifle/shotgun stock, and when folded I can easily fit several sets in my shooting box. So, my inclination is to buy some of the Peltor folding electronic muffs that use basically the same design.

BUT, if what I read on the Pro-Ears web site is accurate, the Peltors completely shut off in response to loud noises, whereas the Pro-ears just reduce the noise to a safe level. Pro-Ears also claim to have much quicker respose and return to normal after the noise. At a shooting range where a number of people are shooting, it seems like having the muffs shut completely down at each shot would be annoying. The Pro-Ears sound like a more sophisticated, better design in that respect.

I'm inclined to try some of the more compact Pro-Ears, but I'm interested in reading additional opinions and experiences.

Doug

 

[pdt203]

There is another product called Mega-Ears from Bonner Technolgies in Huntsville, AL.

Here is a link for thier website. Bonner-Tech

Click on the Hunting Products button on the left.


Thanks,

Johnny

 

[Kaylee]

well.. it does belong in accessories, but tell ya what... I'll leave a link over there from here. How's that?

-K

 

[Kentucky Rifle]

One of the things that really impressed me...

..about the Pro-Ears was when I'd fire my Glock 27. There was a BIG reduction in the report, yet I could STILL clearly hear the ejected empty case hit the floor and roll. Only the "BANG" was reduced. Conversations all around me were clear. In fact, I could hear much better. I could hear conversatons going on even while shots were being fired.
When I called the Pro-Ears factory to order mine, I explained that I was completely deaf in my right ear. They were really nice about it. They said that they would just do something to increase the "range", and they did it for *free! Sometimes, I think I'd be better off if I just wore them all day long. It surely would save a lot of "huh's & what's".

KR

 

[Tman]

DougB:
I have both peltor 7s and Pro-ears Magnum. I bought the peltor's first (cuz they were a bit cheaper) then the Pro-ears about a year later. You are correct in that the peltor's "clip" loud sounds whereas the Pro-ears magnum reduce the sounds. Only important in a continous fire environment (ie. indoor range with a bunch of shooters), or helpful when your with friends or newbies at the range (was with a newbie recently, made sure she had the pro-ears and I wore the peltor's). I prefer the pro-ears but wouldn't feel any hesitation using the peltor's either.

 

[DougB]

Thanks for all the information. It sounds like the Pro-Ears are the best. The Bonner Technologies also look good - but they seem more focused on hearing enhancement than protection (I don't think they are rated to reduce sound to the levels the others do).

The question now is: WHICH Pro-Ears? The "Stalker" version appeals to me because it is a little smaller and lighter, and provides increased amplification capability, but I will primarily use these at the range - would the increased sensitivity be a problem in this environment, or could I just turn them down? I've never worn ear protection when hunting, but these might change that.

The "Sportig Clays" appears to be very similar, but apparetly doesn't amplify sounds as much, and the controls appear to be reversed (in the photo).

Experiences/recommendations?

Doug

 

[Sprout]

I just wanted to add a bargain suggestion. I ordered a pair of the Harbor Freight electornic muffs from www. harborfreight.com. They have a 29 Db reduction and cut off sound at 85 Db. For $35 + S&H, they are pretty cool.