Double up att the range.. foam plugs and muffs.
.22 for small game sometimes, mainly to set a good example for the kids.
7RM when hunting, every time I can I throw in foam plugs kept in several pockets. Taken a few shots unprotected and ears rang for hours after.
As said, it's cumulative damage. Every loud noise chips away at your hearing, lawnmowers, chainsaws, guns, ex-wives, they all take their toll.
I always use muffs at the range and purchased a pair of Walker Game ear digital ear buds for shotgun hunts. Only had them a couple of seasons, but seem to work well. I'm trying to save what hearing I have left.
I have used electronic muffs hunting for the past 2 years, I made the change after my ears were left ringing from taking 2 shots in a row at a bear. Have always doubled up at the range with plugs and muffs and have always worn at least electronic muffs for waterfowl. I have started taking hearing protection very seriously over the past few years, lawnmower and snowblower get muffs too.
I just bought a pair of ghost stryke electronic ear plugs. Tried them out walking around in soft snow and at range. Work great and bonus is that I'll hear Mr. Grizz or my hunting bud (my son) trying to sneak up on the old man. Also, I expect I'll be able to hear game making sounds that I overlooked before. They are a real advantage in many ways.
aka...THE MOOSE WHISPERER
Being able to hear everything when I am on a walk or stock is very, very important .Target or just plinking ear protection is must.
I use a pair of these plugs they are a 2 stage hearing protection. If I'm out hunting in sxs I put on first stage of protection. when I fire my rifle I just push the button to change to second level of protection. I can shoot in first and does prevent my ears from getting rung.
https://www.westsidestores.ca/produc...e-ear-bud.html