Hunting is a great hobby that allows you to get outside and enjoy nature while testing your skills and catching some game. Regardless, with all the firearms and other noise, it’s important to protect your hearing.
That’s why finding the best hunting hearing protection is important to keep your ears safe and prevent hearing loss.
In this guide, we will go through the top picks for the best hearing protection for hunting and break down the features and benefits of each one.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this guide will help you find hearing devices for hunting.
| Hunting Ear Protection List |
Let’s look at these reviews in additional detail:
What is the best hearing protection for hunting?
If you’re looking to pick up some hunting hearing protection, this review of a few of the top options should give you a good idea of what’s out there so you can make a solid choice.
1. Walker’s Razor Slim Shooting Hearing Protection Muff
Key features:
- Slim low-profile earcups
- Impressive 23dB
- Omnidirectional microphones
- HD speakers
- Audio input jack
The Walker’s Razor Slim Electronic Shooting Hearing Protection Muff stands out with its slim, ergonomic design that ensures both protection and comfort during long hunting hours.
The major selling point of this hearing protector is the crisp audio quality that allows hunters to hear ambient sounds while dampening gunshot noise. The lightweight feel and audio fidelity allow it to stay alert to game movement while protecting its hearing.
While a bit more expensive than passive ear muffs, this hearing enhancer for hunting experience is well worth the investment for serious people prioritizing both safety and situational awareness.
For hunters prioritizing lightweight comfort and sound amplification, the Walker’s Razor Slim Electronic Shooting Hearing Protection Muff is among the best hunting hearing protection options available.
The only downside may be the need to replace batteries after extensive use. But the long battery life combined with the included hard case for storage makes this our top pick for hunters looking to protect their hearing without sacrificing awareness.
2. Walker’s Silencer – In-ear Electronic hearing protection for shooting
Key features:
- NRR 25dB
- Clear 360° sound
- Comfy custom fit
- Omnidirectional speaker
- Compact in-ear size
The Walker Silencers stand out for packing hearing safeguard superpowers into tiny wireless earbuds built for all-day wear. We’re talking about reducing loud gunshot bangs while allowing subtle nature sounds to pass through clearly.
The Walker Silencers give hunters customizable protection and spatial hearing enhancement in one package. While costing more than passive earplugs, the clarity and noise control combo makes them a smart investment for hunting sound amplifiers.
As far as drawbacks, you’ll have to deal with swapping tiny batteries. A bit annoying but worth it in my book. Oh, and don’t dunk them in water obviously!
If you want hearing protection with 360° sound built stealthily into wireless earbuds, the Walker Silencer earpieces deliver big-time.
The expanded environmental awareness combined with gunshot sound muting earns them a spot for the best high-tech hunting hearing aids available today.
3. SureFire EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra filtered Earplugs
Key features:
- 28dB
- Memory foam tips
- EarLock retention system
- Low-profile design fits under hats and masks
The earplugs come with soft memory-foam Canal Comply Tips that provide secure seals in ear canals and all-day comfort. You also get an additional pair of Comply Canal tips included in the package.
For hunters who need to protect their hearing while still being able to hear subtle sounds, the SureFire EP7 earplugs are the way to go.
These bad boys feature comfortable memory foam tips that fit nicely in your ear canals without that weird pressure. They’ve got a noise reduction rating of 28dB, so they’ll block loud gunshot noises.
But here’s the game changer, you can remove the filter caps and let in ambient sounds at normal volumes. That means you’ll be able to hear leaves rustling or a twig snap so you don’t miss any deer creeping up. Having that situational awareness from the SureFires gives hunters a nice advantage.
Some other handy features on these EP7s are the EarLock grips that keep them securely in place, the low profile design that’ll fit under headgear, and being made from a durable hypoallergenic polymer that can handle wear and tear.
4. AXIL TRACKR Noise Cancelling Ear Muffs
Key features:
- Dual-purpose hybrid technology
- 25dB
- 40dB sound amplification
- Full dynamic range
- Directional microphones
- Compact and comfortable sweat-resistant design
The AXIL TRACKR ear muffs stand out with their advanced dual-purpose hybrid sound technology that allows hunters to hear ambient noises while automatically muting loud gunshot sounds.
These electronic ear muffs allow you to protect hearing while enhancing environmental sounds. The layered sound dampening and amplification features optimize the experience so you never miss game activity while staying protected.
While more expensive than passive ear muffs, the awareness amplification makes them well worth it for hunters who want an advantage in detecting prey.
With customizable sound controls, crisp directional audio, and a moisture-wicking build, the AXIL TRACKR noise-cancelling ear muffs deliver superb functionality for hunters needing to both protect and enhance their hearing.
The rugged and high-performing design makes these our fourth choice on the list of the best electronic hearing protection for hunting on the market.
5. Sordin Supreme Pro-X LED Ear Defenders for Hunting & Shooting
Key features:
- Noise-Canceling Mic
- Waterproof Design
- SoundTracking
- Comfortable
These Swedish-made active noise-cancelling ear defenders are kinda like the ultimate pair for hunters and shooters. I mean, you want something that’ll save your hearing if guns are blasting nearby. But you still want to hear stuff happening around you too, like your friend talking or animals moving.
That’s what’s great about the Pro-X they use built-in mics and speakers to boost up quiet sounds but turn down loud bangs. So you get excellent hearing protection but you also stay dialed into what’s going on in the field.
The only downside may be that the price is higher than regular passive ear muffs. And the amplified sound might take some getting used to.
So if you want awesome, convenient hearing protection made precisely for hunting & shooting, the Sordin Supreme Pro-X ear defenders really can’t be beaten. Easily one of the best hunting hearing protection out there if you ask me.
6. Decibullz Custom Molds
Key Features:
- Custom moldable
- high 31dB
- Re-moldable
- Triple flange and foam tips included
- Carrying case
The Decibullz are an innovative custom molded earplug that allows you to easily mold them to the exact shape of your ear canal for a personalized, comfortable fit.
With an impressive noise reduction rating of 31dB, they are among the best options for hunting hearing protection currently available.
For hunters and shooters who want best-in-class hearing protection with a comfortable customized fit, the Decibullz earplugs are a top choice.
Molding them is super easy too, just dip them in some boiling water until they get soft, squish them into your ears, and boom custom ear heaven! And if you don’t nail the mold right away, no stress, you can just re-do it.
Their downsides are minor given their outstanding noise-blocking capabilities and customizable nature. Overall they provide outstanding functionality and value as some of the best hearing protection earplugs available.
7. Peltor Sports Tactical 500
Key features:
- 26dB
- Amplifying soft sounds
- Bluetooth wireless
- Clear Voice Tracking
- Foldable design
One of the top choices for hunters is the Peltor Sports Tactical 500 hearing protection. These earmuffs are designed to be comfortable even during long hours.
They have a noise reduction rating of 26 decibels and feature Bluetooth technology so you can still listen to music or take phone calls while wearing them.
The Peltor Sports Tactical 500 also has an amplification feature that allows you to hear low-level sounds, so you won’t miss any important noises in the wilderness.
These electronic Bluetooth Peltor 500s muffs are a bit pricier than some passive ear muffs but well worth it for the hearing enhancement superpowers.
Overall – the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 ear protectors are my top pick for the best Bluetooth shooting ear protection seeking to stream playlists and surroundings while eliminating shot noise.
8. Walker’s Ear Elite Digital PRO 2 – Best hunting hearing aids
Key Features
- 29dB NRR
- 4 sound processing channels
- Moisture and dust-resistant
- Adjustable bass
- Up to 50dB sound amplification
- Sound compression
The Walker’s Game Ear Elite Digital HD PRO 2 offers high-tech hearing aids and enhancement for hunters. With a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 29dB and 50dB of sound amplification.
It aims to let you hear critical low sounds while protecting against damaging loud noises. But how well does it work for hunting situations?
For hunters, the excellent hearing protection combined with sound enhancement is a real benefit. The amplification picks up subtle noises like animal footsteps or rustling that you’d otherwise miss.
The four sound channel settings are pre-optimized for different situations like nature and crowds. The waterproof nano-coating ensures rain or snow won’t fritz out this device when you’re out all day.
For serious hunters who prioritize protective hearing enhancement, the Walker’s Game Ear Elite Digital HD PRO 2 is among the best tech options available.
If you can get past the price and bulk, it delivers great situational sound amplification and protection. Just be ready to tweak settings occasionally to find your perfect balance of amplification and dampening.
Why do you need hearing protection while hunting?
Preserve Your Hearing
Hunting requires the use of firearms. Gunshot noise can do serious damage to your hearing, particularly if you’re exposed to it regularly.
In fact, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), prolonged exposure to sounds over 85 decibels can damage your hearing.
The gunfire noise is usually above this threshold, and without hearing protection, you could experience hearing loss or even permanent hearing damage.
Better Awareness of Your Surroundings
When hunting, it’s essential to be alert and aware of your surroundings. Wearing hearing protection can help you avoid distractions that could cause a safety hazard. You can stay focused on your surroundings and listen to the footsteps of approaching animals.
Improve Your Hunting Skills
Hearing protection can also improve your hunting skills. When you’re not distracted by loud sounds, you’re more likely to hear the sound of approaching prey.
This way, you can act fast and increase your chances of making a successful hunt. You will also be able to hear communication from other hunters to coordinate your activities and work better as a team.
The type of the Best Hunting Hearing Protection to buy
Electronic Ear Muffs
Electronic ear muffs are one of the best hunting hearing protection options out there. They work by amplifying ambient sounds while blocking out damaging noises.
With electronic ear muffs, you can hear sounds like game movement and nearby conversations while protecting your ears from loud gunshots.
It also comes equipped with volume control so you can adjust the amplification to a comfortable level.
The downside of electronic ear muffs is that they can be quite expensive, but they are worth the investment for their effectiveness.
Earplugs
Earplugs are the most affordable and convenient option for hearing protection. They are small and easy to use, making them perfect for hunters who want to travel light.
Earplugs usually come in foam or silicone materials, both of which are comfortable to wear. on the other hand, another in ear-hunting hearing protection is a type of earplug that combines the protection of regular earplugs.
They have a tiny microphone that detects sounds, which is then transferred to a speaker that amplifies the sound to a safe level.
These high-tech earplugs come with volume settings that allow hunters to hear what is necessary while blocking out any dangerous noise.
Passive Ear Muffs
Passive ear muffs are another popular option for hunting hearing protection. They work by blocking out noise using sound-deadening foam material.
They’re great for blocking out loud gunshots but can make it difficult to hear ambient sounds like game movement. Passive ear muffs are also more affordable than electronic ear muffs, making them a good option if you’re on a budget.
My final thought: Hunting Hearing Protection
Buying quality hearing protection is important for all hunters. Hunting can cause irreversible damage to your hearing, which is why wearing hearing protection should be a non-negotiable part of your hunting gear.
Hearing protection is an important part of hunting gear, and it’s essential to choose the right kind for your needs.
With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which hearing protection is ideal for you. Whether you choose earplugs, earmuffs, electronic protection, in-ear protection, or custom earplugs, make sure they provide at least a 23 dB noise reduction rating.
FAQ
Do you wear hearing protection while hunting?
Yes, it is highly recommended to wear hearing protection devices such as earplugs or earmuffs when hunting. The loud noise from gunshots can permanently damage your hearing over time.
Wearing hearing protection helps prevent noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus while allowing you to still hear ambient sounds like animals or other hunters.
Should you use hearing protection when hunting with a rifle?
Absolutely. Rifles produce an extremely loud noise when fired which can permanently hurt your hearing. Not wearing proper hearing protection puts you at significant risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss or tinnitus over time.
Why use electronic hearing protection for hunting?
Electronic hearing protection devices like electronic earmuffs allow you to hear quiet ambient noises while automatically cutting loud impulses like gunshots.
This improves situational awareness compared to passive earplugs while still protecting hearing. The sound amplification also makes it easier to hear quiet noises like animal movement or other hunters.