Earmuff quality

ruger22 · Post by **ruger22** » Sat Feb 20, 2010 8:26 pm

Just got two sets of the Leightning LOF muffs, and have ordered some of the "hygiene kits" that replace the ear cushions and cup foam. I did a lot of research before I settled on the LOFs.

I am amazed at all the flimsy frames, headbands, and cushions on many of the muffs on the market. Even the ever-popular Peltors seem cheapo to me. Howard Leights have a stitched nylon cover over a steel headband, and reasonably heavy replaceable ear cushions. The LOF model is low profile and folds, too. All pluses.

My second runner-up was the Pro-Ears Ultra 26, because of the listed leather headband and ear cushions. But, all other parts are plastic, they don't fold, and are nearly twice the price of the Leights. The earpad kit costs as much as a whole Leightning muff.

Just my rant of the day. I have 25 year old Radio Shack Nova headphones. Mostly stainless steel with all leather headband and ear cushions. They look nearly new, work perfect, and I gave Goodwill $2 for them. And nobody now can even make a set of shooting muffs to match their quality.

blue68f100 · Post by **blue68f100** » Sun Feb 21, 2010 9:28 am

I have the ProEars Golds and they are very comfortable. These are the only ones that have a 33NNR and clamp at 70 db. All of the others were speced at 82+dB, OSHA spec says anything over 80 can damage your hearing. I would like to keep what I have left. I will be ordering a pair of their non-electronic pairs for guest and yard work. I have been very pleased with them even though they are expensive.

The electronic one worked great for hunting. I was able to hear squirrels cutting on nuts 25yrds off. But they are hot during the summer heat.

Post by **Bullseye** » Sun Feb 21, 2010 3:17 pm

Your observation is just another reason why I wear both plugs and muffs when out on the firing line. Double protection helps fill in the gaps as manufacturers seek out the cheapest labor sources for their products.

R,
Bullseye