Originally Posted by
sniper
This post duplicates one I did on another forum, so, please nobody get upset about me inquiring at two or more sources of knowledgeable individuals. 8-)
Back when I was in the Military, they didn't seem much concerned about hearing protection, and on the rare times we were sent to the range, a lot of us shoved the .30 Carbine brass in our ears. Minimal, if any protection at all. But, my wife :) bought me my first set of earmuffs about 50 years ago.
When I was discharged, I was told I had no significant hearing loss. I have worn some sort of hearing protection ever since.
Now, I do have severe hearing loss, right ear mostly...possibly genetic, because my Mom and her mother both had severe hearing loss. As an additional thing, I have a condition where sudden sharp, or sustained loud noises causes a nervous reaction...Run and Hide! NOW! Even with my Electronic muffs. I can experience a tightening of muscles, increased heart rate, and a tendency to flinch, especially with the report from .223, large bore handguns, or big bore rifles. It feels like "fight of flight' is kicking in. Sometimes, I need to leave the range.
A terrible affliction for someone who loves guns and shooting!
I am wondering if a set of moulded ear plugs in addition to my muffs would reduce the sounds enough so I could enjoy shooting more. The only negative I can see would be the probability of not hearing or understanding range commands. I've been told my ear canals are "unusually" small, so getting properly fitted hearing aid earpieces has been somewhat of a problem.
Does anyone here have the same problems, and what are my options? What has worked for you?
Thanks.