How old are your molded plugs?

I ask because they need to be replaced after a few years due to the material breaking down (shrinking) and not fitting your ear as snugly as when new.

As a test, try using a pair of foam earplugs, inserted properly, next time you go to the range.

If you feel you still require double protection and like the idea of the electronic muffs, do your homework before you purchase. Not all electronic muffs are created equal and some may not (will not) reduce the noise level until after the noise has peaked. Not as big a concern when worn as double protection, but a big concern if you decide to wear them alone. Also, no need to spend money on something that doesn't do what you want it do.

A way to determine the total NRR of double hearing protection:
The NRR this will produce is calculated by adding 5dB to the NRR of whichever protector (the earplug or the earmuff) has the higher NRR. Keep in mind that this is after the necessary reduction factor of 7dB (if using the A - weighted scale) has been calculated. For example, if you were using an earplug with an NRR of 32dB with an earmuff with 27dB NRR, your noise reduction calculations would be:

  • 32dB[A] (earplug) - 7db (OSHA Safety Factor) = 25dB
  • 25dB + 5dB (for using earmuff and earplug together) = 30dB
  • Total corrected NRR = 30dB