Guns have been a part of many people’s culture for a long time, with hunting and shooting being popular pastimes for many firearm enthusiasts. This activity can be a great way to relieve stress and improve focus. It’s also ideal for self-defence, protecting livestock from predators, and a convenient hunting tool.
Although guns can be fun to shoot, you must never forget to protect yourself, particularly your ears. Guns produce loud noises, and constant exposure to these sounds unprotected can have lasting effects on your hearing. Therefore, you should invest in protective equipment like custom earplugs.
If you want to shoot your firearms responsibly while protecting your hearing, this article will explain how loud noises affect your hearing and how to safeguard yourself.
How Can Loud Noises Damage Your Hearing?
Our ears are fragile and complex organs that loud noises can easily harm. When the volume is too high, it can damage the tiny hair cells in our inner ear that convert sound vibrations into signals for our brain. Unfortunately, once these cells are damaged, they cannot regenerate, resulting in permanent hearing loss.
Besides hearing loss, exposure to loud noises can lead to other health problems like tinnitus (a continuous ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears) or hyperacusis (heightened sensitivity to everyday sounds).
What Are Decibels?
We use decibels (dB) to measure sound intensity. Sounds below 70 dB are generally safe for long-term exposure, while those above 85-90 dB can cause hearing damage. Normal conversation occurs at around 60 dB, machinery noise can reach 110-120 dB, and gun noise often ranges between 140-170 dB.
What Noise Levels Do Firearms Produce?
The noise levels of different firearms can range from 140 dB for a .22 rifle to 167 dB for a .223 AR-15. They can produce high noise levels that can harm hearing, even with smaller calibre weapons. Therefore, you should always use proper hearing protection when shooting, like custom earplugs.
Why Should I Get Custom Ear Plugs?
Experts design custom-moulded earplugs to provide unparalleled fit and comfort. They’re specifically for your ear canal, guaranteeing an ideal fit. Also, these earplugs offer superior noise reduction and ease than other alternatives. However, remember that they can be relatively expensive than other options.
3 Factors to Consider When Choosing Hearing Protection4
Personal protective equipment for your ears can safeguard you against loud noises, but that only works when you find the right one. Here’s what you should consider when finding hearing protection before shooting a firearm.
1. Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
The NRR determines how much noise reduction a hearing protection device provides. Choose an adequate NRR to protect your ears from loud gunshots; every 3 dB increase in NRR means twice the noise reduction. Also, consider the noise level of the gun you’re shooting to protect your hearing adequately.
2. Comfort and Fit
Although prioritising noise reduction is essential in hearing protection, you shouldn’t overlook comfort and fit. Uncomfortable or ill-fitting protection may discourage consistent use and compromise effectiveness. Consider your ear size, materials, and extended wear comfort when choosing hearing protection.
3. Durability and Maintenance
Investing in durable, easy-to-maintain hearing protection is essential for shooters. Consider the ease of cleaning and availability of replacement parts. Although quality devices like custom earplugs may cost more upfront, they offer better protection and savings in the long term.
Should I Combine Two Types of Ear Protection?
For the best hearing protection during shooting sessions, combine active earbuds with passive ear muffs or foam earplugs and earmuffs. Active earbuds provide innovative noise-cancellation technology, while passive devices add a protective layer.
Conclusion
No firearm enthusiast deserves to suffer hearing loss from shooting guns, but that happens when you don’t protect your ears. You can avoid this medical issue by understanding how loud noises affect you and investing in ear protection devices like custom earplugs.
If you’re a firearm enthusiast needing custom earplugs near Sydney and New South Wales, visit Custom Fit Earplugs! We service everyone who wants to prevent hearing loss, damage, or ear infections. Contact us now to get yours!