Rating of the best active headphones for shooting and hunting for 2022

Active headphones are a necessary piece of equipment not only for hunters, but also for those people who are engaged in shooting at a professional or amateur level. During hunting, the noise level can reach 150 dB, and the maximum allowable level that will not harm a person, depending on the time of day, is 40-55 dB. Therefore, ignoring this accessory can lead to hearing loss, or even permanent loss.

Unlike passive devices, which drown out everything, active devices not only reduce the noise level from the shot, but also allow you to better hear other environmental sounds, such as human speech. The built-in stereo microphones automatically boost or attenuate all frequencies according to their intensity, and convert them to a mid frequency that is most acceptable to the human ear.As a result, strong noises do no harm, and weak ones are heard more clearly. For example, it becomes easier for the hunter to hear the rustles that the beast makes when moving through the forest.

The operation of the device is directly related to its quality. In well-designed models, sounds are heard very clearly, electronic cutoff is minimal, and there is no noise cutoff delay.

Disadvantages of active headphones and earplugs

Despite a number of advantages, active headphones are not recommended for permanent wear.The increased temperature of the skin of the ear, which is inevitable during their long-term use, can provoke the appearance of a number of diseases, primarily fungal (mycosis).

If you replace them with active earplugs, which are also very popular among hunters and shooters, you may encounter another nuisance. Earplugs do not protect the bones located around the ear, but they are also directly involved in hearing. A negative impact on them can cause its decline. However, earplugs are more comfortable, less bulky, and you don't have to worry about overheating the surface of your ear.

Novelties in the Active Hearing Protection Market

The market of accessories for hunting and shooting constantly offers various novelties. Recently, smart ear protection has become popular. From the world of professional sports, it is gradually moving into the sphere of consumption that is generally accessible to shooting enthusiasts. Noise waves are processed without the slightest delay online.

The best manufacturers of active headphones

Shooting equipment is produced by many companies, both Russian and foreign. Their products differ not only in quality and price, but also in ease of use, noise reduction characteristics, the composition of the materials used for them, etc.

Among Russian manufacturers of accessories for shooting, KB Priboi is considered the best. Its products are characterized by a combination of quality and quite adequate cost, which makes it popular.

Products of Russian-Chinese production from Veber are also in demand. The shooting equipment they produce is distinguished by a budget price, and at the same time it has fairly good protective characteristics. Their advantages also include high-quality assembly and a comfortable fit on the head.

Among foreign manufacturers, it is worth noting such companies as Peltor, Howard Leight, MSA Sordin.

• Peltor is a Swedish brand with a long history. Products of this brand have been produced for 65 years and have managed to prove themselves perfectly. The 3M™ PELTOR™ line of gear is based on the latest in military technology and is compatible with most types of ballistic helmets and other shooting gear.
• Howard Leigh is an American company with a thirty-year history, one of the market leaders in hearing protection devices. The active use of innovations, the use of the most advanced materials and technologies is a distinctive feature of their products.
• MSA Sordin is another brand from Sweden. This company has existed for more than a century and is considered to be a pioneer in the production of hearing protection products. The main goal of the company is to protect the life and health of people. Accessories manufactured by MSA Sordin are not only of the highest quality, but also of unparalleled after-sales service. On average, the warranty for the products of this company is at least five years and does not depend on where or in which country the purchase was made.

In addition to those listed above, products from companies such as EarShield and SportEar are in demand among shooting enthusiasts.

How to choose the right active headphones

In order not to make a mistake when choosing, it is necessary to take into account a number of factors. The first thing you should pay attention to is the manufacturer. At high hearing loads, protection must be of high quality, and products from budget brands may not be effective enough. This is very important when choosing devices for competitions, where the requirements for durability and reliability are high.

The second thing that is easy to identify directly on the fitting is soundproofing and noise reduction. To do this, put on the equipment, make a few loud claps. In high-quality accessories, cotton will be instantly muffled to an acceptable volume, while human speech, the ringing of a mobile device and other noises that are in the acceptable range will be heard clearly and clearly.

An important indicator is the absence of discomfort when wearing. They should sit well on the head, fit snugly to the ears, not slip off, but not press.

Next, you need to study the technical characteristics, such as:

• sink device and its size;
• number of stereo microphones;
• noise suppression level;
• wind and moisture protection;
• device weight;
• service life of batteries or accumulators;
• suitability for left-handers and right-handers;
• the presence of an auto-off function;
• the ability to connect an additional headset;
• equipment and a number of others.

Active hearing protectors come in a variety of colors. You can find black, khaki, camouflage, as well as bright red, pink, orange. When choosing goods by color, it is better to focus on the rest of the equipment, and for hunters, their invisibility against the background of the surrounding landscape will be an important factor.

Rating of the best active headphones for 2022

The rating is based on customer reviews on the Yandex Market trading platform. For convenience, it is divided into two sub-ratings. The first presents a number of budget models that are in high demand among shooting enthusiasts. The second rating contains more expensive professional models.

Budget headphones

Budget models have proven themselves in the amateur environment, since the ratio of cost and quality makes their purchase not too burdensome for the budget, and the benefits of operation are obvious.

Veber Bear Black

The price for Yandex Market is 1620 rubles.

This is one of the most budget devices with a simple design. Equipped with a built-in microphone with a sound filter. Provides good protection against noise above 82 dB and amplifies weak sounds qualitatively. Due to the low cost, it is perfect for beginners who are just starting to shoot.

• combination of cost and quality;
• comfortable fit on the head;
• low background noise;
• good autonomy.

• there is no auto-off button;
• weak moisture protection.

Veber Bear Camo

The price for Yandex Market is 2070 rubles.

This device is in many ways similar to the one above, from the same manufacturer. The difference in price is explained by the fact that they not only suppress noises with frequencies above 82 dB, but also amplify weak noises from the range up to 24 dB. Each bowl contains two microphones, which allows you to pick up all the surrounding noise, regardless of their direction. Volume control in both bowls is carried out by one lever. The wire from it is placed inside the headband, which eliminates the possibility of its accidental breakage. Powered by two AAA batteries, providing 180 hours of continuous operation. The device is conveniently folded, the cups are placed in the curve of the headband, which reduces the risk of damage during transportation.

• budget cost;
• ergonomic design;
• good autonomy.

• there is no auto-off function;
• the presence of a small background noise;
• insufficient wind and moisture protection.

Veber Bear-2 camo

The price for Yandex Market is 2990 rubles.

This accessory is suitable for both shooting range and hunting, and can be used both indoors and outdoors. It has a built-in automatic filter that cuts noise above 82 dB without delay. The adjustable headband and oblong-shaped shells provide a good fit to the ears and comfortable use.

• cost corresponds to quality;
• good autonomy - up to 350 hours of continuous operation;
• camouflage coloring is suitable for hunters;
• stereo mode allows you to determine the direction of the incoming sound;
• convenient volume control.

• noticeable background noise;
• poor protection against moisture.

Shottime 32

The price for Yandex Market is 3600 rubles.

This device, produced by SHOTTIME, is an analogue of the most popular Howard Impact Sport headphones on the Russian market. The convenient shape of the cups with a specially provided bevel allows you to conveniently position the butt of any type of small arms. Stereo microphones ensure that quiet sounds are perfectly audible and their direction is precisely determined. The volume control located on the left cup is combined with the function of switching the electronic system on and off. On the right bowl there is a compartment for two AAA batteries, from which power is supplied.

• ergonomics;
• budget cost;
• long service life - 350 hours from one set of batteries;
• there is an auto-off function after four hours of inactivity;
• the design provides for the connection of additional external audio devices and devices, for example, a radio station or a player.

• insufficiently long service life in comparison with the original;
• average build quality.

PMX Tactical PRO PMX-40B

The price for Yandex Market is 4490 rubles.

This hearing protection accessory is suitable for both indoor shooting and hunting. Actively rejects noise above 85dB and boosts low noise below 26dB. The package includes a cable for connecting a headset and external devices, two AAA batteries and a microfiber case.

• affordable cost;
• good equipment;
• ergonomic design;
• reliable assembly;
• versatility of use.

• there is no moisture protection;
• weak wind protection;
• eco-leather, from which the headband is made, quickly begins to crack.

Allen Axion

The price for Yandex Market is 4870 rubles.

This accessory from the American company Allen is perfect for hunters not only in terms of its technical characteristics, but also because of the camouflage coloring that is invisible in the open space. Also on sale you can find devices in black. This product complies with ANSI S3.19 and CE EN352. Its advantages include dynamic audio compression, four-channel stereo sound, and a response time of just 1.5 milliseconds. The accessory is equipped with an independent volume control and an automatic amplifier. The built-in microphone with stereo sound allows you to accurately determine the direction and location of the sound source.

• excellent noise isolation thanks to comfortable ear cushions with a snug fit;
• ergonomics;
• adjustable headband;
• choice of colors.

• the noise reduction level starts at only 92 dB, which can be a source of discomfort;
• poor protection against moisture.

Awesafe GF01C

The price for Yandex Market is 4890 rubles.

This device from a Chinese manufacturer is distinguished by high-quality assembly and good technical characteristics. It is suitable for hunters, shooters, military, special services specialists. The most modern technologies used in its production provide a clear, natural sound. Noise pulses are blocked when the 82 dB limit is exceeded.

• clear sound;
• Air Flow Control technology guarantees optimal noise reduction at all frequencies;
• reliability, a guarantee from the manufacturer is 5 years;
• convenient sound control system;
• Low-profile beveled cups for ease of use
• compact, easy folding design;
• AUX output allows you to connect an external MP3 player, radio station, telephone;
• auto-off function after four hours of inactivity;
• several color options (khaki, camouflage, black);
• meets the requirements of Tr/Tc.

• poor equipment (only box);
• insufficient quality amplification of weak noises.

PMX Tactical PRO PMX-35

The price for Yandex Market is 4990 rubles.

This device cuts off noise already at a frequency of 80 dB, which makes their use very comfortable, and they can be recommended for people with hearing diseases as the most gentle equipment option. Amplification of sounds is in the range from 0 to 26 dB. The weakest rustles are amplified four times.Equipped with two stereo microphones and comfortable ear cushions with foam inserts. There is an AUX output for connecting external devices. Power is supplied by two AAA batteries.

• effective hearing protection;
• case included;
• excellent gain and noise rejection characteristics.

• no wind protection
• there is no moisture protection;
• no automatic shutdown is provided;
• only available in black.

Caldwell E-Max

The price for Yandex Market is 5040 rubles.

The accessory is made of high-quality polymer and is perfect for shooting at a shooting range, as well as in other indoor areas. Foam ear pads and a comfortable headband make it comfortable to use.

• decent ergonomics;
• good wear resistance.

• lack of wind and moisture protection;
• no outputs for connecting external devices;
• quiet sounds are amplified by only 2 times;
• lack of automatic shutdown function.

Earmor Hunting Edition HE1

The price for Yandex Market is 5390 rubles.

This device is primarily intended for hunters. It is made of high quality polymers and eco-leather, which makes it reliable, comfortable and durable.

• excellent ergonomics;
• AUX output for connecting external devices;
• IPX5 security class;
• good moisture resistance.

• there is no possibility of connecting via Bluetooth;
• only box included.

The average cost of the considered most popular budget models of active accessories is 3995 rubles.

Rating of professional active headphones

Professional grade active headphones come with more features and higher performance. They can be used by athletes competing at the highest level, professional hunters, military and intelligence officers.

Howard Impact Sport

The price for Yandex Market is 8550 rubles.

The most popular active devices for hearing protection in the Russian Federation, confidently leading according to the results of numerous surveys. They are an excellent combination of price and quality. Production - China.

• convenient folding design;
• light weight - 286 g;
• output for connecting external AUX devices;
• affordable cost.

• the presence of background noise;
• only box included.

Earmor ME5-BK-NOGEL

Price for Yandex Market - 8990 rubles

This accessory is equipped with a microphone and a PTT cable, which makes it very convenient to use. The foldable housing made of impact-resistant plastic and elongated foam rubber ear cushions provide a comfortable fit on the head.

• the ability to connect to the radio;
• PTT connection;
• excellent quality of materials;
• auto-off after 4 hours;
• reliability and structural strength.

• not very long working time - 350 hours;
• poor water resistance IPX-5 (possibility of being in the rain and short-term falling into a puddle).

Peltor Pro Tac Shooter

The price for Yandex Market is 10650 rubles.

They differ in stepped noise reduction: instead of an instantaneous and sharp mute of the sound, which adversely affects the hearing organs, its decrease is carried out in a smoother mode.Frequencies above 82 dB are instantly reduced to an acceptable level, and then they are lowered several more times until they reach the middle frequencies.

• convenient folding design;
• excellent noise reduction;
• the ability to connect external devices through a special connector;
• low battery indication;
• informative voice menu.

• low battery life - only 100 hours;
• high cost;
• weak set.

Pyramex AMP BT EarMuff VGPME30BT

The price for Yandex Market is 13990 rubles.

This practical and handy accessory will be useful both when shooting and in too noisy places. The ability to connect to a phone, player or walkie-talkie either via AUX 3.5 mm or via Bluetooth makes their use especially convenient.

• ergonomics;
• made of excellent quality materials: impact-resistant plastic and eco-leather;
• wide possibilities of connecting external devices.

• there is no protection against moisture;
• short battery life, only 200 hours.

Option stereo folding

The price for Yandex Market is 15850 rubles.

These Swiss-made accessories offer excellent versatility. They are designed specifically for hunters, shooting sports and for workers in occupations with high noise levels.

• noise reduction starts at 75 dB;
• high ergonomics;
• the ability to use with a helmet or headgear;
• convenient folding design.

• inability to connect external devices;
• rather big cost;
• only box included.

Peltor SPORTTAC SHOOTING 478

The price for Yandex Market is 16370 rubles.

A device developed on the basis of the latest digital technologies by one of the leading manufacturers of hearing protection techniques. Allows you to reproduce noise and determine their direction with maximum accuracy. The headband is made of stainless spring-loaded wire, easily adjustable. Its outer surface is covered with a soft polymer "cushion" that is not afraid of moisture and precipitation.

• electronic block Peltor SportTac with instant cut-off;
• the ability to connect external devices, including radio stations;
• interchangeable red and black sports cups included;
• isolated battery compartment;
• battery life - up to 600 hours.

• high cost;
• quite large weight - 318 g.

PRO-300

The price for Yandex Market is 16650 rubles.

This accessory works in both active (85 dB) and passive noise reduction (26 dB) modes. They are individually adjustable for an optimal fit on the head.

• two separate volume controls allow you to make individual settings for the cups;
• genuine leather ear pads do not sweat or crack;
• light weight - only 215 g.

• there is no moisture and wind protection;
• poor equipment;
• there is no possibility to connect external devices;
• no auto-off;
• only available in black.

MSA Sordin Supreme Pro Neckband

The price for Yandex Market is 23400 rubles.

Waterproof, textile-covered headphones from one of the leading manufacturers of hearing protection products impress with their thoughtfulness and ergonomics.

• convenient in operation;
• excellent protection against moisture;
• amplification of weak sounds by 4 times;
• Possibility to connect external devices.

• rather big cost;
• only box included;
• only available in khaki.

MSA Sordin Supreme Pro-X Camo Led

The price for Yandex Market is 29,700 rubles.

These Active Noise Canceling shooters are part of the premium Supreme Pro-X Camo Led series and are manufactured in Sweden by the famous and oldest brand MSA Sordin. This model, in addition to two independent volume controls, a leather-wrapped adjustable metal headband, a 3.5 mm JACK cable connector and a built-in flashlight, also has silicone ear pads that make the device especially comfortable to use. The unique design is made in orange tones with a camouflage pattern, it is also possible to purchase such devices in black.

• compliance with international quality standards;
• excellent protection against moisture;
• high-quality materials: genuine leather and impact-resistant matte plastic;
• ergonomic gel ear pads;
• amplification of weak sounds by four times;
• function of remembering the last settings;
• AUX output for connecting external devices;
• excellent autonomy - 600 hours of operation on one set of batteries;
• 40 hours low battery warning;
• built-in LED flashlight;
• the kit includes a 3.5 mm Jack cable for connecting a headset, walkie-talkie and other devices and a set of 2 AAA batteries.

• undemocratic cost;
• only two microphones;
• not a very convenient procedure for changing batteries.

3M Peltor Comtac XPI

The price for Yandex Market is 55890 rubles.

A top-of-the-line electronic noise canceling accessory comtac xpi headset with active protection and low-sound enhancement in stereo, replacing the proven Comtac XP headphones. Differs in a huge number of various functions. Runs on two AAA batteries.

• low-profile cups and a comfortable headband make them very comfortable to use;
• amplification of weak noises by four times;
• cutoff at 80 dB;
• there is an active protection function in stereo mode;
• implemented configuration menu with voice prompts;
• work in a salty environment is possible;
• double duplication of all functions of electronic circuits practically eliminates the possibility of device failure and technical problems;
• waterproof housing;
• automatic shutdown after 2 hours of inactivity;
• low battery alarm;
• balance mode between left and right cups;
• Battery life up to 500 hours;
• available in two colors - khaki and black;
• earbud mode allows you to use them in very noisy environments.

• cost affordable to a few;
• poor equipment (only box);
• lack of AUX output and other options for connecting external devices.

The average price for professional headphones of the most popular models discussed above is 19,994 rubles.

Mistakes when choosing active headphones

One of the main mistakes when buying this accessory can be to purchase it online in an online store.Despite the fact that it is possible to study in detail all the technical characteristics of certain accessories you like, the issue of their real sound insulation and the convenience of landing on the head cannot be solved remotely. The best option in this case would be to try on the model you like in a real store and then order it on the Internet, as a rule, at a more attractive price.

It is also necessary to pay attention to the possibility of connecting external devices. If you plan to wear headphones for a long time, it will not be very convenient to take them off every time you call your mobile, it is much easier to answer using a specially connected headset.

It is necessary to take into account the practical aspects of their use. If you plan to go to the shooting range for your own pleasure from time to time, buying expensive devices does not make sense. But for serious shooting or regular hunting trips, expensive quality devices will help protect your health and increase your shooting efficiency.

Accessories for active headphones

As additional equipment, first of all it is necessary to mention the ear pads. This is a soft pad on the inside of the earcup, allowing it to fit more closely to the ear and improve noise canceling functions. In addition, the following accessories are on sale:

• headset for wireless communication;
• microphones;
• radio plug;
• soft and hard cases.

The use of accessories will make the process of using hearing protection devices even more convenient and comfortable.

Shooting is a hobby enjoyed by people of both sexes and all ages.Proper hearing protection will allow you to fully enjoy this activity without fear for your health, and active headphones are one of the best ways to protect it.