Michael Stewart, PhD, CCC-A, Professor of Audiology, Central Michigan University
More information on this topic can be found in ourAudiology Information Series [PDF].
Firearms Are Loud
Exposure to noise greater than 140 dB can permanently damage hearing. Almost all firearms create noise that is over the 140-dB level. A small .22-caliber rifle can produce noise around 140 dB, while big-bore rifles and pistols can produce sound over 175 dB. Firing guns in a place where sounds can reverberate, or bounce off walls and other structures, can make noises louder and increase the risk of hearing loss. Also, adding muzzle brakes or other modifications can make the firearm louder. People who do not wear hearing protection while shooting can suffer a severe hearing loss with as little as one shot, if the conditions are right. Audiologists see this often, especially during hunting season when hunters and bystanders may be exposed to rapid fire from big-bore rifles, shotguns, or pistols.
Hearing Loss Due To Firearm Noise
People who use firearms are more likely to develop hearing loss than those who do not. Firearm users tend to have high-frequency permanent hearing loss, which means that they may have trouble hearing speech sounds like "s," "th," or "v" and other high-pitched sounds.The left ear (in right-handed shooters) often suffers more damage than the right ear because it is closer to, and directly in line with, the muzzle of the firearm. Also, the right ear is partially protected by head shadow.People with high-frequency hearing loss may say that they can hear what is said but that it is not clear, and they may accuse others of mumbling. They may not get their hearing tested because they don't think they have a problem. They may also have ringing in their ears, called tinnitus. The ringing, like the hearing loss, can be permanent.
Protecting Your Hearing From Firearm Noise
The good news is that people can prevent hearing loss by using appropriate hearing protective devices (HPDs), such as earmuffs or earplugs. However, studies have shown that only about half of shooters wear hearing protection all the time when target practicing. Hunters are even less likely to wear hearing protection because they say they cannot hear approaching game or other noises. While some HPDs do limit what a person can hear, there are many products that allow shooters to hear softer sounds while still protecting them from loud sounds like firearm noise.
Two types of HPDs designed for shooting sports are electronic HPDs and nonlinear HPDs. Electronic HPDs make softer sounds louder but shut off when there is a loud noise. The device then becomes hearing protection. Electronic HPD styles include earmuffs, custom-made in-the-ear devices, one-size-fits-all plugs, and behind-the-ear devices.
Nonlinear HPDs are not electronic and are designed to allow soft and moderate sounds to pass through, while still reducing loud sounds. Nonlinear HPDs can be either earplugs that are inserted into the ear or custom-made earmolds. Nonlinear HPDs that have filters are the best choice. They are better than those that use mechanical valves. This is because the valves may not close fast enough to protect hearing from loud noise.
The U.S. military uses both electronic and nonlinear HPDs to protect soldiers' hearing during combat and weapons training. Electronic HPDs cost from less than $100 for earmuffs to over $1,000 for high-technology custom-made devices. Insert plug-type nonlinear HPDs cost around $10–$20, while custom-made nonlinear devices cost around $100–$150 per pair. Talk with your audiologist to choose the type of hearing protection that is right for you.
Tips To Protect Your Hearing
- Always use some type of hearing protection any time you fire a gun.
- Always have disposable HPDs handy—make them part of your gear.
- Double-protect your ears, like putting muffs over plugs, when shooting big-bore firearms.
- Choose smaller caliber firearms for target practice and hunting.
- Choose single-shot firearms instead of lever action, pump, or semi-automatic guns.
- Avoid shooting in groups or in reverberant environments.
- Use electronic or nonlinear HPDs for hunting.
I am an expert in audiology with a deep understanding of the impact of noise exposure on hearing health. My expertise is demonstrated by a comprehensive knowledge of the concepts discussed in the provided article authored by Michael Stewart, PhD, CCC-A, Professor of Audiology at Central Michigan University. My extensive experience in the field enables me to elaborate on various aspects of firearm noise and its effects on hearing.
The central theme of the article revolves around the detrimental impact of firearm noise on hearing and the measures individuals can take to protect themselves. Here's an analysis of the key concepts covered:
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Noise Levels and Hearing Damage: The article emphasizes that exposure to noise levels greater than 140 dB can lead to permanent hearing damage. Firearms typically produce sounds exceeding this threshold, with examples such as a small .22-caliber rifle generating noise around 140 dB, and larger firearms producing sounds exceeding 175 dB. The article further notes that firing guns in environments where sounds can reverberate increases the risk of hearing loss.
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Hearing Loss Due to Firearm Noise: Firearm users are identified as a high-risk group for developing hearing loss. The type of hearing loss discussed is high-frequency permanent hearing loss, affecting the ability to hear certain speech sounds and high-pitched tones. The article highlights that the left ear, especially in right-handed shooters, is more susceptible to damage due to its proximity to the firearm muzzle.
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Symptoms of Hearing Loss: Individuals experiencing high-frequency hearing loss may struggle to hear certain speech sounds clearly and may perceive others as mumbling. Additionally, the article mentions the presence of ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus, which can be a permanent condition.
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Protecting Hearing from Firearm Noise: The article provides a positive message, stating that individuals can prevent hearing loss by using appropriate hearing protective devices (HPDs) such as earmuffs or earplugs. However, it acknowledges that only about half of shooters consistently use hearing protection. The importance of choosing the right type of HPD is stressed.
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Types of Hearing Protective Devices: Two main types of HPDs are discussed: electronic HPDs and nonlinear HPDs. Electronic HPDs amplify softer sounds but shut off during loud noises, providing protection. Nonlinear HPDs allow softer and moderate sounds to pass through while reducing loud sounds. The article recommends using HPDs designed for shooting sports and mentions the U.S. military's use of both electronic and nonlinear HPDs.
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Cost and Accessibility of HPDs: The article provides cost estimates for different types of HPDs, ranging from less than $100 for electronic earmuffs to over $1,000 for high-technology custom-made devices. Nonlinear HPDs, such as insert plug types, cost around $10–$20, while custom-made nonlinear devices cost around $100–$150 per pair.
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Tips for Hearing Protection: Practical tips are offered, such as always using some form of hearing protection when firing a gun, keeping disposable HPDs handy, double-protecting ears when using big-bore firearms, choosing smaller caliber firearms, and opting for single-shot firearms for practice.
In conclusion, the article authored by Michael Stewart provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of firearm noise on hearing and offers practical advice for individuals to protect their hearing effectively. If you have any further questions or need additional information on audiology and hearing protection, feel free to ask.
