By Outdoor Expert - October 2023

Hey there, fellow outdoor enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a hot topic: Do you still need hearing protection when you're using a suppressor? Spoiler alert: yes, you do! While it might seem like your ears are safe after slapping that suppressor onto your rifle, there are some important things to keep in mind.

The Suppressor Effect

When you first squeeze the trigger with a suppressor attached, it’s like night and day. The sound is much quieter, and you might think, “Hey, I can totally skip the earplugs today!” But hold your horses! Just because it sounds better doesn’t mean it’s safe for your ears. Most suppressors reduce the decibel level significantly, but they don’t eliminate noise completely. In fact, many suppressors still let out gunfire sounds in the 130-140 dB range – that’s still loud enough to cause hearing damage over time.

Exceptions to the Rule

Now, there are a couple of exceptions where you might not need ear protection. If you’re using subsonic ammo with a high-quality suppressor on an indoor range or engaging in quiet pest control outside, the noise can be less intense. But honestly, it’s better to be safe than sorry! Wearing hearing protection is a small price to pay for long-term ear health.

Choosing the Right Hearing Protection

If you’ve decided to stick with hearing protection (which I hope you do), let’s talk options. You’ve got your classic foam plugs, which are affordable and effective. Or if you want something spiffier, electronic earmuffs are great too—they allow conversation while blocking out harmful sounds. It’s all about finding what works for you so you can enjoy your time outdoors without worrying about ringing ears later on!

Conclusion

At the end of the day, always prioritize your hearing health when shooting—suppressor or no suppressor. So grab those earplugs or earmuffs before heading out on your next adventure! Your future self will thank you.