Firearms Hearing Protection

Gunshot noise is among the most intense sounds people commonly encounter

Overview

A single gunshot produces an impulse noise that typically exceeds 140 dB peak, among the most intense sounds people commonly encounter, and impulse noise of this kind can damage the cochlea immediately. Recreational shooters, hunters, and military personnel show characteristic high frequency noise induced hearing loss, and in right handed shooters the left ear, which faces the muzzle, is often worse affected. Hearing protection for shooting includes earplugs, earmuffs, and combinations of both for added attenuation. Electronic earmuffs and earplugs amplify quiet sounds such as speech and rapidly limit loud impulses, preserving situational awareness. Suppressors reduce muzzle noise but do not bring it to levels considered safe. Indoor ranges add reverberation that increases exposure. Among United States veterans, tinnitus and hearing loss are among the most common service connected disabilities, reflecting the burden of military noise exposure.