Choosing the best ear protection is a personal decision. Some people prefer over-ear protection, while others opt for earplugs. If you have sensitive hearing, wearing both together is the best approach. We offer both over-ear ear protection and earplugs, so you can find the best option for you.
Please note that when wearing ear protection, you can still hear the noise around you; it is just reduced by the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). TradeSmart's over-ear passive earmuffs have an NRR of 28 dB, our electronic earmuffs have an NRR of 24 dB, and our earplugs are rated at 33 dB.
Although the over-ear passive earmuffs have a lower NRR than earplugs, they are more than sufficient for most high-caliber firearms at the range, catering to the needs of most users. Electronic earmuffs, with an NRR of 24dB, provide additional features like sound amplification and adjustable settings, allowing you to hear your instructor. However, for purely indoor range use, the higher NRR of passive earmuffs makes them the better choice. Electronic earmuffs are particularly beneficial in environments where hearing ambient sounds is crucial, such as hunting.
Therefore, for indoor ranges, we recommend passive earmuffs for optimal noise reduction and protection. You can pair these with earplugs for maximum protection, especially if you have sensitive hearing.