Shooting Ear Buds as Hearing Aids or Vice Versa

[AckleymanII]

My dad, who shot 5" guns on a ship in the Korean war, had bad hearing. He had expensive hearing aids, but they made his ear canal sore from Sweat. I bought him a pair of Walker game ears, he barely put them in his ear, and he loved these for normal use around the house and Church.

They had another set up for watching TV so no one was made deaf.

I suggest you give the Walker Game ears a try. Then the next issue is to remember where you put them! If they work, buy 3 pairs. Dad's dog ate two pair as shown by X rays in the dogs stomach, Crocker Spaniel.

 

[Old Navy]

This is my 3rd set of hearing aids and, by far, the most advanced to date.
this is the first set that has suppression capabilities to assist with higher decibel noises.
First observation, based on my experience.
I venture 99% of the shooting ear buds are NOT made with the sophisticated electronics needed to serve tuning them to help you hear daily goings on around you. If there are those will likely cost as much or more as a set of very good hearing aids.
Second, and this one is painful.
You will never be able to buy hearing aids that will allow you to hear as well as the original equipment God gave you. AND please do not ever count on hearing aids to provide adequate hearing protection from the Db's associated with gun fire.

That last paragraph says it all.

 

[Kittitas George]

Be sure to read the critiques of the 'Howard Lieght' ear buds advertised in todays 'Bulletin' and sold by Amazon.

 

[M-61]

Gal said they could be worn when shooting.

Absolutely wrong.
Of course they could be worn but it would be totally incorrect.

 

[Dave M.]

Due to family complaints, it’s time for me to either get some hearing aids or a new family. I’m working on the first option at this time.

Is anyone using their shooting electronic ear buds as daily wear hearing aids? Alternatively are you using your regular in-ear hearing aids as hearing protection when shooting? If yes to either question, what product are you using and what are the pros/cons you have experienced?

I found a lot in past threads about what electronic ear buds people liked for shooting but nothing about the daily wear hearing aid angle.

I’d suggest going to see a professional audiologist and to get fit for some good hearing aids. Hearing aid technology has improved significantly in the last 10-15 years and they are far more sensitive and much clearer than any electronic ear muff/plug is. I’ve used $400 electronic ear plugs and people still sound tinny and like they are in a can talking to me. They are good for range plugs but honestly nothing more. Also, I don’t know your family but don’t rule out option 2. Some of the best time I spend is by myself. lol.
Dave