There are certain pieces of gear that make life a lot more enjoyable for a shooter. Having a good set of electronic ears means you’re not missing any important commands on the firing line, and you don’t have to take off your muffs to hear the instructor.
The way electronic hearing works is that when the noise level outside is below a certain decibel level you can hear normally as if you’re having a regular conversation with the person next to you. In other words, if you’re on the firing line and the instructor starts talking, you don’t have to take off the earmuffs in order to clearly hear what he’s saying. This is accomplished due to the microphones and amplifiers inside the electronic ears. However, when the noise crosses a certain decibel level, such as at the sound of a gunshot, the electronic ears either shut off or compress the sound and your hearing is protected from the loud noise.
Howard Leight Impact Sport Electronic Earmuff
A popular, often-seen electronic earmuff is the Howard Leight Impact Sport Electronic Earmuff. It costs about $42, has a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) rating of 22 (audiologists recommend a minimum rating of 20) and uses the “peak clipping” technology that blocks loud noise.
Features
* Sleek, extremely low profile earcup design allows for full clearance of firearm stock
* Automatic 4 hour shut-off increases battery life
* AUX jack connects to MP3 players and scanners
* Automatically shuts off loud impulse noise to a safe 82dB while amplifying conversation and range commands
* Convenient folding design for easy storage
* One single power and volume control knob
* Air Flow Control technology
* Black leatherette headband with sporty hunter green ear cups
* Water resistant
* Easy access to the external battery compartment
* 2 AAA batteries included
For more information, visit http://www.howardleight.com
Walker’s Game Ear Elite Power Muff
Walker’s Game Ear is another company that produces electronic ears. Walker’s high-end Elite Power Muff has an NRR rating of 24, has two independent volume controls, and uses compression technology.
Features
* 2 wind resistant, high frequency, stereo microphones for precise sound directionality
* 9x Hearing Enhancement
* Power – 50dB
* Nano Coated for moisture protection
* Adjustable Frequency Tuning – AFT
* 2 independent volume controls
* Sound activated compression (SAC)
* Noise reducing rating, NRR 24db
* Anti-Microbial Ear Pads
* Power source 2 Energizer ‘AAA’ batteries (included)
For more information, visit http://www.gsmoutdoors.com
SportEAR XT4
SportEAR makes several earmuffs. A best seller is the XT4. Retailing around $100, it automatically shuts out sounds over 85 decibels loud. It has dual adjustable frequency knobs, and it can amplify sound up to eight times.
Features
* 8X sound amplification
* Total control over both volume and frequency
* Sound-blocker circuit kicks in above 85dB
* 25 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
* Signature lightweight polymer plastic for a comfortable, light fit and rugged durability
* Sleek, low-profile cups are specifically designed for maximum effectiveness when shooting rifles
* Excellent performance in a wide range of field conditions, and utility in all kinds of shooting, motor-sports and other situations
For more information, visit http://www.sportear.com
SportEAR GhostStryke
When it’s too hot for muffs consider electronic earplugs. These unobtrusive hearing protectors have become popular lately. SportEAR makes the GhostStryke, which utilizes compression technology to provide for optimal digital hearing protection and a universal SecurFit design to securely fit in any sized ear.
Features
* Uses: Hunting, Shooting Range, Sporting Events, Concerts, Industrial Noises, General Hearing Improvement
* Enhance & Protect Your Hearing
* Universal SecurFit Design
* Digital Compression Hearing Protection
* 100% Lynx Digital Sound Clarity
* 2 Way Communication Optional
* 30 dB NRR with Foam Tips
For more information, visit http://www.ghoststryke.com
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