Audio / Buying guidance
Hearing Protection for Shooting: Why Music Earbuds Are Not Enough
Consumer music earbuds should not be recommended as gunfire hearing protection without documented protective performance.
By Rafael Rocha · Updated
Noise cancellation is not a protection rating
NIOSH says noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds should not be considered hearing protection unless labeled with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). Music-listening features are not evidence of protection from gunfire.
Use protection suitable for impulse noise
NIOSH recommends earmuffs over earplugs for impulse sounds such as weapons noise. Follow the range’s requirements and the protector manufacturer’s instructions.
Fit matters
A laboratory rating does not guarantee the same reduction for every wearer. Proper fitting is essential; individual fit testing can establish how much attenuation a protector provides for you.
Correction to our previous recommendations
The previous list included consumer music earbuds without verified gunfire protection. Those purchase recommendations have been removed. This page provides hearing-protection guidance rather than an unverified product ranking.