Interesting Kickstarter for hearing protection

[Phase2]

Some of you might be interested in some new silicon earplugs that are coming out soon via Kickstarter. The interesting part is that they don't need any bulky batteries/electronics to provide hearing protection for loud noises while maintaining sound pass-thru for normal sound. This gives them similar function to electronic muffs, though they fit into the ear. They have two versions: one that works with loud-noise protection only and one that can be switched via a button from relatively normal hearing to full-time noise suppression, making it easier to exclude sound for concentration etc.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/goaxil/axil-xp-series-earplugs-defender-and-reactor/description

$19 will get you a single set of either type of plugs with discounts if you fund more.

Credit to James Yeager for the pointer. Don't hold it against them.

 

[Young William]

I preordered the XPDEFENDER. This will be my first high tech hearing protection. I have always just used the standard muffs or plugs. I can't wait to try them in a class setting, so this will be an excellent excuse to sign up for more training.

 

[JollyMon]

How are these different from other ear pros like Surefire ep3? Seems like they are just trying to market something that already exists

EarPro EP3 Sonic Defenders® Earplugs from SureFire

 

[Phase2]

I currently own and use EP3s. They are good for the purpose. That said, strictly from the specs, looks like new Axil products will have significantly better protection: 33dB vs 24dB. Also, looks like they are easier to switch between full-time noise suppression and high-noise suppression.

The two are very similar in function, which makes them competitors. If you already have EP3s, these are evolutionary, not revolutionary.

That said, I still have a small bag of basic foam earplugs in my range bag for friends or anyone else at the range that needs hearing protection.