Hearing loss is caused by a combination of sound intensity and exposure time. Pay attention to the Noise Reduction Rating, regardless of the type of hearing protection you choose (NRR). When worn, the NRR represents the maximum number of decibels (dB) by which the hearing protector reduces the sound level. When your ears are subjected to at least 140 dB, permanent hearing impairment can occur. Rifles may produce noise levels of 160-170 decibels. Without hearing protection, every shot you shoot will harm your ears. Muffs and plugs are the two most common types of ear protection. Plugs slide into the ear canal while muffs cover the entire ear. Here, the most critical factor is fit. Earmuffs or plugs that are not properly fitted will not operate, regardless of their noise reduction rating. A single shot can result in permanent hearing loss. Even if you already have hearing loss, continuing to be exposed to loud noises can exacerbate the problem. Universal plugs don’t always work for everyone, especially when they’re used incorrectly. Wearing both plugs and muffs at the same time is also an option that provides maximum protection. Wearing both muffs and plugs increases the noise reduction rating to about 5-10 dB higher than the muffs or plugs’ greatest NRR rating. No target shooter, plinker or hunter should ever be without ear protection.
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