NRR Ratings and hearing protectors?

[chuckw2]

What do these numbers mean?

I am thinking about buying some new Peltor electronic hearing protectors. One is rated at 18 db, the other is rated at 24 db.


Which gives you the most protection?


Chuck

 

[dreever]

Chuck,

I have the Howard Leight Impact Sport electronic muffs sold for $49.95 at www.bigrivertactical.com and am happy so far with them. They are more comfortable than the Peltors and a bunch easier to replace batteries when needed, although I'm still on the original batteries since I bought the muffs back in April.
I personally still stick some NRR 29 plugs in also since my hearing isn't what it used to be.
As to the NRR numbers the higher the better. Leight makes some non electronic muffs that are NRR29 but are to big and bulky for shooting.
It is usually felt that plugs are not enough since they leave the bone behind your ear exposed which resonates the noise which damages your hearing also.

Danny

 

[Shoot1000]

The numbers are decibels ratings. 18 reduces noise you hear by 18 deciblels 24 by 24 decibels. If you are on the younger side in age I would go for the highest you can get. You will be better off twenty or thirty years down the road. Some of the best protection I have seen are in earplugs. I use a 29 decibel. But thay must be inserted correctly.

 

[DesertLefty]

The Noise Reduction Ratings,NRR) are based on standardized tests that measure the sound reduction across a range of frequencies. The NRR test is NOT designed to accurately measure the reduction in "impulse" noise like gunfire. The NRR is a more useful guide in "industrial" settings - think buzzsaws, weedwhackers, and race cars.

So for shooting purposes, don't get too hung up on small differences in the NRR value. Snug, comfortable fit with NO LEAKS is the key. For muffs, pay particular attention to the fit over your shooting glasses.