Sound advice – why hearing protection is a must

A single unprotected shot can be enough to cause permanent hearing damage. Here’s what shooters need to know about protecting their hearing in the field, on the range and on the clay ground.

You’ll have heard it on a clay ground or on the peg: “It’s only one shot.”

Sometimes it’s an excuse for leaving ear protection in the car. And sometimes, nobody wants to be the one holding things up.

But when it comes to hearing, that ‘one shot’ can do real, lasting damage. Hearing loss does not need a dramatic incident. It can start with a single unprotected moment.

The risk shooters face

Firearms produce impulse noise. It is sudden and intense. Because the sound is over quickly, it is easy to underestimate. In the real world, exposure is unpredictable:

you do not always control when the next shot happens
sound reflects off woodland, hides, hard ground and covered stands
your position changes what reaches your ears
different guns, loads and muzzle devices alter the impact

If you shoot regularly, hearing protection is not optional kit – it is part of your PPE.

Common misconceptions

“It was only one shot”

Even one unprotected shot can be enough to cause harm.

The effect depends on distance, angle, calibre and surroundings. You might notice ringing or muffled hearing afterwards. You might not. The absence of symptoms does not mean there was no damage.

Make protection part of your routine. Keep it with you, not in the car. Put ears on before you load.

“My ears aren’t ringing, so I’m fine”

Tinnitus is only one warning sign. Some shooters notice a dull or blocked feeling instead.

Others only realise later when they struggle in busy rooms; ask people to repeat themselves more often; or even feel unusually tired after a shooting day.

If something feels off, take it seriously. Get your hearing checked. Do not ‘test’ your ears by going without hearing protection.

“I’m outdoors, so it’s safe”

Open ground helps, but many shooting environments amplify sound. Hides, tree cover, banks, gateways and covered clay stands all reflect noise back towards you.

A shot that feels manageable in an open field can be harsh under a roof or in a confined position.

Wear hearing protection outdoors as standard. Increase it for covered stands, busy clay sessions or confined spaces. If you are mentoring or supervising, make ‘ears on’ part of the safety brief.

“My rifle is moderated”

Moderators and different loads can reduce perceived noise, but they do not remove risk entirely. The issue is what reaches the inner ear, not simply what feels loud. You may also be standing near other shooters or in a position where sound reflects back at you.

If muzzle brakes are in use, hearing protection is non-negotiable for everyone nearby.

Electronic ear defenders or plugs can allow normal conversation while reducing impulse noise.

“Doubling up is excessive”

Not always. Using plugs and ear defenders together makes sense in high-volume clay sessions.

It also works great when sighting in or zeroing near other shooters, on covered firing points, in confined spaces or when muzzle brakes are involved.

It is also sensible if you already have hearing issues and want to avoid making them worse.

“Foam plugs are all the same”

Foam plugs can work well if inserted properly. Unfortunately, many are not. Roll them, pull the ear back, insert deeply and hold in place.

Replace disposable plugs regularly and carry spares. If fit is inconsistent, consider reusable or custom-moulded options.

The best hearing protection is the one you will wear correctly and consistently.

“Ear defenders get in the way”

Poor fit is usually the problem. Modern options include slim-profile defenders, neckband styles and in-ear plugs designed for shooting.

If bulky muffs interfere with your mount, try lower-profile versions. If cups affect your cheek weld, explore in-ear options.

Discomfort leads to lifting one cup or removing protection at the wrong moment. Find something that works and stick with it.

“I need to hear what’s going on”

You can protect your hearing and stay aware of your surroundings even at the busiest of shoots.

Electronic protection allows normal sounds through while reducing gunshot noise. That means you can hear instructions, dogs working and movement along the line. Even with non-electronic options, good communication helps. Remember to always face the person speaking and confirm instructions. Avoid the habit of lifting one ear to talk.

What to look for in hearing protection

Choose hearing protection that:

suits the environment you shoot in
works with your gun mount and headwear
is comfortable enough to wear all day
is easy to use without fuss

Put it on before shooting starts and carry spares. Offer protection to newcomers and spectators and treat your hearing protection as you would any other essential kit.