hearing protection questions / looking 4 advice

[MIgunguy]

Does hearing protection "wear out"? Do ear muffs get to a point where they don't seal so well around the ears? Lately I've noticed my hearing protection doesn't seem to work so well anymore. I am wearing more "stuff" under my ear muffs (hat to deflect brass, safety glasses over my perscription glasses), but it seems to be getting worse. I double up with plugs like I always have, but lately I'm hearing other people's shots more and sometimes getting slight ringing and headaches at the range. Any thoughts / advice?

Any advice as to top-quality hearing protection is appreciated; thanks in advance.

 

[btg3]

There are many variables that can affect proper fit and seal of ear muffs. You probably are in a better position to evaluate, but I'd start by going to the range and "listening" rather than shooting so that you can compare "just muffs" (with earplugs, if you like) vesrus "muffs loaded" with your other stuff. If there is a difference, then your fit and seal is being compromised by some of your extras.

If the range has some rental muffs for a few bucks you could see if they are different than your own.

I've had muffs for >10 years with no deterioration, but if the foam is subject to heat (such as in a car), UV, gasoline fumes... there could be some degradation.

New muffs is cheap insurance, but they must FIT and SEAL. Earplugs must also FIT and SEAL. FWIW, I rarely see anyone properly insert ear plugs.

 

[oneounceload]

All those things under your muffs affect the seal that keeps sounds out. Use in-ear plugs with over-ear muffs and minimize things affect the muff's seal.

 

[LiveLife]

lately I'm hearing other people's shots more and sometimes getting slight ringing and headaches at the range. Any thoughts / advice?

I experienced similar problem until I replaced my old hearing protectors with new ones - I have deep muffled silence again even though I still can feel the gun blasts from next lane.

Have you tried another one at the range, like borrow from other shooters to see if the problem goes away?

 

[DBR]

Anything that compromises the seal of muffs can significantly reduce their NRR: eyeglass bows, hat brims and improper fit all compromise the effectiveness. In my experience, custom molded ear plugs and muffs that fit right are the best option.

Muffs with large cups are generally more effective. Gel seals last a lot longer than foam seals

I use custom plugs (they are silicone rubber and I have had them for about ten years) with Peltor muffs. With the volume turned up all the way on the muffs I can adequately hear range commands.