Ear Protection for Hunters
Today there are a growing number of ear protection products for hunters. Recurring exposure to gunshots will often result in some form of hearing loss. Every hunter should consider using some form of ear protection.
There are numerous items to mull over when selecting ear protection for hunters. Not the least of witch is price. Don't forget to check your local department or gun stores and online for sales and pricing.
Next to price, efficiency may be the most important item to consider when selecting hearing safeguard. Most devices will have a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) available. The NRR tells you what decibel level the device will protect you from. The higher the NRR the more protection you get from the device. Some hunters will combine devices for increased protection. Ear muffs and ear plugs would be a case in point of combined devices. You would add 5 to the maximum NRR rating of the two devices.
EAR PLUGS Of course, the least expensive option for hearing protection would be ear plugs. Not all earplugs are created equal. Some are high quality, and will afford you decent hearing protection. Others are made cheaply and are worth little. If you choose ear plugs, be sure to insert them properly, or you will not receive the full benefit they can give. The biggest advantage you'll find with earplugs may be their size. Drop them in your pocket, and you're set.
EAR MUFFS Ear muffs are the next most affordable choice. They range from inexpensive sets to high end electronic ear muffs. Inexpensive ear muffs may offer immediate protection for very little out of pocket, but they may lose their seal as time goes on, leaving you with little or no protection. Electronic ear muffs can be a very good choice, but it may be difficult to choose which is best. Many electronic ear muff manufacturers do not include an NRR rating with their products.
DIGITAL EAR PROTECTION The newest device for hearing protection uses digital technology. There are a few different models available. A good example of today's digital ear protection devices is the SportEAR. These digital "ears" can help you hear the quietest step of nearby game, but they shut down as soon as they detect any sound louder than a set decibel level. These devices provide both an NRR and a maximum output number, so you can shop around to find the one that suits you best. They are tiny, comfortable to wear, and are equipped with a sensitive volume control. While more expensive than some hearing protection devices, the digital versions give you a lot for your dollar. The manufacturer can even raise your higher frequencies and lower your low frequencies at your request. Probably the best thing about the new digital hearing protection devices is that they can be used by anyone with hearing problems, too. While they were created for use while shooting, or working in a noise-filled environment, they are also suitable for an average person who suffers from hearing loss. While the devices are made to generically fit everyone, custom fitting may be available from the factory. Author: Joel :: Hits: 0 :: Added: Thu Jan 03 2008 ::
