10 Best Shooting Range Ear Muffs 2025 in the United States

The Howard Leight R-02526 earmuffs offer reliable hearing protection for shooting range users while allowing awareness of the surroundings. With a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22, they effectively reduce harmful noise levels, limiting loud gunshots to a safe 82 dB. Their electronic feature amplifies quieter sounds such as conversations and commands, aided by dual microphones that also reduce wind noise. Comfort is addressed with slim, low-profile ear cups and a padded, adjustable headband, making them suitable for most adults without bulkiness. The foldable design enhances portability and storage convenience.

Constructed from sturdy ABS plastic, these earmuffs balance durability with a lightweight feel, though the plastic may be less resilient under very rough conditions compared to metal alternatives. They offer impressive battery life of up to 350 hours and include an auto shut-off feature to conserve power. Controls are simple with a straightforward knob, and an AUX input provides additional versatility for connecting music or scanners. These earmuffs serve well for recreational shooters or hunters seeking effective hearing protection combined with situational awareness and comfort, though they may not meet the needs of users requiring maximum noise blocking in extremely loud or industrial environments.

The Howard Leight Impact Sport earmuffs offer solid hearing protection with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22, effectively reducing harmful gunshot noise while keeping loud sounds capped at a safe 82 dB. Their electronic sound amplification boosts quieter sounds like conversations and range commands by 4 times, helping you stay aware of your surroundings, which is important for safety. The dual microphones efficiently pick up directional sounds, and their recessed design reduces wind noise.

Comfort is thoughtfully addressed with a slim, low-profile design that fits well with firearm stocks to avoid interference. The padded, adjustable headband is easy to customize for a secure but comfortable fit. These earmuffs also fold up compactly, making them easy to carry and store. Battery life is impressive, reaching up to 350 hours with included AAA batteries, and an automatic shut-off after four hours helps save power. Controls are simple, with a single knob for power and volume, and an AUX input allows connection of music players or scanners for added versatility.

Durability is adequate for regular range use, though the lightweight design at just 1.6 ounces might raise concerns about long-term ruggedness for some users. Replacement ear cushions are available, which helps extend the lifespan. These earmuffs are highly regarded among shooting gear users for balancing protection, situational awareness, and comfort. They are especially suitable for recreational shooters and those wanting clear hearing of their environment without sacrificing noise safety. For most shooting range activities, the Impact Sport is a reliable and user-friendly choice, though those seeking very high noise reduction or a heavy-duty build might consider other options.

The Howard Leight Impact Sport Electronic Shooting Earmuff is designed for those who frequent shooting ranges or need hearing protection while enjoying safe sound amplification. One of its key strengths is the built-in directional microphones, which allow users to hear range commands and surrounding sounds up to a safe level of 82 dB. This feature enhances communication without compromising safety, making it ideal for shooters who want to stay aware of their environment. The product also boasts a decent Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22, which provides a reasonable level of hearing protection, though it's not the highest available on the market.

Comfort and fit are well thought out, with low-profile earcups that allow for easy firearm stock clearance and an adjustable headband for a secure fit. Users can expect a good balance of comfort during extended use, which is crucial for long shooting sessions. The earmuffs also feature a compact folding design, making them portable and easy to store, which is a plus for those who travel to various shooting locations.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the battery life is impressive at around 350 hours, users may find the requirement for AAA batteries a bit cumbersome compared to rechargeable options. The automatic shut-off feature after 4 hours helps conserve battery life, but frequent hunters or shooters might need to keep an eye on battery levels. Additionally, while the integration of an AUX input is a nice touch for those wanting to use their earmuffs with MP3 players or scanners, some may find the sound quality less than ideal when playing music.