March 18, 2025 4 min read
When it comes to protecting your hearing at the gun range, not all earmuffs are created equal. Whether you're firing a Glock pistol, a rifle, or a shotgun, the right hearing protection can make all the difference in comfort, safety, and performance. Among the many options available, Decibel Defense earmuffs stand out as the best choice for shooters who demand the highest level of noise reduction, durability, and value.
In this detailed comparison, we'll break down exactly why Decibel Defense safety earmuffs are the best hearing protection on the market—even when compared to popular brands like Peltor, Walker, MSA Sordin, and AXIL.
Firearms produce sound levels that far exceed safe limits for human hearing. A Glock 19, for example, generates around 160 dB when fired—far beyond the 85 dB threshold for potential hearing damage. Without proper hearing protection, repeated exposure to gunfire can lead to permanent hearing loss and conditions like tinnitus.
That’s whereDecibel Defense earmuffs shine. With an industry-leading NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) of 37 dB, they provide the highest level of noise reduction available in passive earmuffs, making them ideal for Glock owners and other firearm enthusiasts.
Let’s compare Decibel Defense to other top-rated hearing protection options in terms ofvalue, quality, build, design, and noise reduction rating.
Model | Type | Advertised NRR | Best Feature |
Typical Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Decibel Defense | Passive Muff | 37dB NRR | Best Noise Reduction | $22 |
Peltor ComTac V | Electronic Muff | 23dB NRR | Best sound | $499 |
ShellShock EXO PRO | Electronic Muff | 28dB SNR | Gel caps & case | $99 |
AXIL TRACKR | Electronic Muff | 27dB SNR | Offer 2 for 1 | $64 |
Ear Buddy | In-Ear Foam | 32dB NRR | Inexpensive | $19 |
Peltor Optime 105 | Passive Muff | 30dB NRR | Protective | $25 |
AXIL XCOR | In-Ear Electronic | 29dB SNR | Small/Bluetooth | $199 |
MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X | Electronic Muff | 22dB NRR | Sound & Comfort | $275 |
Safariland Liberator HP 2.0 | Electronic Muff | 26dB NRR | Helmet mount | $349 |
Walker Razor Slim | Electronic Muff | 23dB NRR | Affordable | $39 |
Howard Leight Impact Sport | Electronic Muff | 22dB NRR | Affordable | $45 |
3M Shotgunner II | Passive Muff | 24dB NRR | Slim | $25 |
Surefire EP3 Sonic Defender | Passive In-Ear | 24dB NRR | Reusable | $13 |
Axil GS Extreme 2.0 (Wired) | In-Ear Electronic | 29dB SNR | Lightweight | $129 |
Bottom Line: Decibel Defense offers the highest noise reduction rating (NRR 37 dB), making it the best choice for serious shooters at an affordable price.
One of the biggest complaints among shooters using lower-end hearing protection ispoor durability. Many earmuffscrack, lose their seal, or break at the hinges after just a few months of use.
Decibel Defense earmuffs, on the other hand, are made from high-quality, impact-resistant materials, ensuring they can handle frequent use at the range. The heavy-duty headband and reinforced ear cups are designed tolast for years, unlike cheaper options that degrade quickly.
Comfort is crucial for shooters, especially during long practice sessions. Poorly designed earmuffs can cause headaches, excessive pressure, or irritation over time.
Decibel Defense earmuffs feature:
Padded headband for all-day comfort.
Soft, cushioned ear cups that create a secure seal without excessive pressure.
Adjustable fit for shooters of all head sizes.
Compared to models like MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X ($275) andWalker Razor Slim ($39), Decibel Defense offerssuperior comfort at a fraction of the price.
Hearing protection ranges from budget-friendly foam plugs tohigh-end electronic earmuffs costing $500 or more.
Peltor ComTac V ($499) – Fantastic sound quality, butvery expensive.
MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X ($275) – Comfortable and great sound quality, but lower NRR and costly.
Walker Razor Slim ($39) – Affordable, butlow noise reduction (23dB NRR).
Decibel Defense ($23) –Industry-leading 37dB NRR, outstanding durability, and unmatched value.
Decibel Defense providesthe best balance of price and performance, making them thesmart choice for gun owners.
Electronic earmuffs amplify low-level sounds while blocking out gunfire. However, they typically have lower NRR ratings (22dB–28dB), meaning they don’t block as much noise as passive earmuffs.
For shooters using aGlock pistol, passive earmuffs like Decibel Defense (37dB NRR) provide the highest level of protection. If you need extra awareness, you can always pair them with in-ear electronic options like the AXIL GS Extreme 2.0.
If you're serious about protecting your hearing while enjoying the best possible value,Decibel Defense earmuffs are the #1 choice for Glock shooters and firearm enthusiasts alike.
✅Best Noise Reduction (NRR 37dB)
✅Durable, High-Quality Build
✅Superior Comfort for Long Sessions
✅Affordable Price Compared to Competitors
✅Trusted by 250,000 customers since 2016
Don't settle for low-quality hearing protection. Invest in Decibel Defense earmuffs today and experience the gold standard in noise reduction for the shooting range!
Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more …