So I'm deaf...

Published on April 22, 2026
Duration: 7:55

This video emphasizes the critical importance of hearing protection for firearm users, drawing from the speaker's personal experience with combat-related hearing loss and tinnitus. It recommends doubling up on ear protection (plugs and over-ear muffs) and highlights the effectiveness of electronic ear pro like the Howard Leight Impact Sports for both shooting and hunting. The video also touches on accessories like name tag wraps to prevent loss of ear pro.

Quick Summary

Protecting your hearing is paramount for firearm users due to the high-frequency, high-volume noise of gunshots, which can cause permanent damage like hearing loss and tinnitus. Doubling up on ear protection (earplugs and earmuffs) is highly recommended, and electronic earmuffs offer additional benefits for situational awareness.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Hearing Issues
  2. 00:31Sponsor: Sonoran Desert Institute
  3. 01:02VA Hearing Test Results
  4. 01:18Combat-Related Hearing Damage
  5. 01:53Long-Term Hearing Protection Efforts
  6. 02:48Importance of Ear Protection
  7. 03:09Noise Hazards Comparison
  8. 03:28Recommendation: Double Up Ear Pro
  9. 03:41Howard Leight Impact Sports Review
  10. 04:16Other Ear Pro Options
  11. 04:51Flatline Fiber Name Tag Wrap
  12. 05:39Reiterating Hearing Protection Importance
  13. 06:01Hearing Protection in Various Environments
  14. 06:36Gunshots and Hearing Damage
  15. 06:51Types of Hearing Protection
  16. 07:07Improvised Hearing Protection (Brass Casings)
  17. 07:27PSA: Protect Your Hearing
  18. 07:41Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is hearing protection crucial for firearm users?

Firearm use, especially repeated exposure to gunshots, creates high-frequency, high-volume noise that can cause permanent hearing loss and tinnitus. Protecting your hearing is essential to prevent long-term damage similar to that caused by combat noise.

What is the best way to protect hearing at the shooting range?

The most effective method is to 'double up' on hearing protection. This involves wearing both earplugs (foam or hard) and over-ear earmuffs. Electronic earmuffs like the Howard Leight Impact Sports are also recommended for their ability to suppress loud noises while allowing softer sounds to be heard.

Can combat experience cause permanent hearing loss?

Yes, prolonged exposure to loud combat noises such as explosions, machine gun fire, and mortar fire can lead to significant and permanent hearing loss, including high-frequency loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

Are there any temporary solutions for hearing protection if I forget my ear pro?

While not ideal, a temporary measure if you forget your ear protection at the range is to insert two pieces of 9mm brass casings into your ear canals. This can help reduce noise considerably, but it's crucial to always have proper hearing protection available.

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