What you don't know CAN hurt you! Best hearing protection?

Published on January 18, 2026
Duration: 10:24

This video from Precision Rifle Network provides expert guidance on hearing protection for shooters. The instructor, with high authority, details the dangers of overpressure and decibel levels, recommending specific products like Axil Foam Earplugs, Walker's Razor, Axil Trackers, and Sordin Supreme earmuffs. It emphasizes the technique of stacking protection (earplugs under earmuffs) and the use of suppressors for maximum safety and situational awareness.

Quick Summary

Expert guidance from a Precision Rifle Network instructor highlights that permanent hearing damage occurs at 140dB. Recommended protection includes high-NRR earplugs (Axil 32dB) and electronic earmuffs (Walker's, Axil, Sordin). Stacking earplugs under earmuffs and using suppressors (25-35dB reduction) offers maximum safety against firearm noise and overpressure risks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Sponsorship
  2. 00:39Eye Protection Importance
  3. 01:23Hearing Protection Basics (dB/NRR)
  4. 02:51Earplugs Explained
  5. 03:28Earmuffs Comparison
  6. 07:42Suppressors for Noise Reduction
  7. 08:26Stacking Protection & Personal Preference

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended hearing protection for shooting firearms?

For shooting, it's recommended to use hearing protection with a high Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). Options include foam earplugs (like Axil Foam Earplugs with 32dB NRR) and electronic earmuffs (like Walker's Razor, Axil Trackers, or Sordin Supreme). For maximum safety, stacking earplugs under earmuffs is advised.

How much noise reduction do firearm suppressors provide?

Firearm suppressors typically offer 25-35dB of noise reduction. While they significantly lower noise levels, they are often used in conjunction with earplugs and/or earmuffs to ensure sound levels remain below the 140dB threshold for permanent hearing damage.

What is the danger of overpressure in firearms?

Overpressure in firearms can result from double powder charges or barrel obstructions like rain or snow. This can lead to catastrophic firearm failure, posing a serious risk of injury, underscoring the importance of both eye and hearing protection.

How can shooters maximize hearing protection?

Shooters can maximize hearing protection by 'stacking' methods: wearing foam earplugs underneath electronic earmuffs. This layered approach provides superior noise reduction compared to using either item alone, especially in high-decibel shooting environments.

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