Electronic hearing protection has become almost mandatory if you spend much time on the range.
Being able to hear conversations and range commands while still protecting your hearing makes shooting safer and far more enjoyable.
I’ve been using the PROHEAR 022 electronic earmuffs, and after spending time with them, here’s what I think.
Comfort
This is honestly where it surprised me. The optional gel ear cushions completely change the experience.
If you’ve ever worn hearing protection for several hours, especially while wearing glasses, you know pressure points become miserable. The gel cushions conform around your ears much better and make these comfortable enough to wear all day.
Performance
The electronic circuitry works exactly as it should. Conversations are easy to hear, and range commands come through clearly.
When a sound reaches 82 dB or higher, the electronics kick in within 0.0005 seconds, shutting off the sound and allowing the muffs to suppress noise by about 29 dB, with ambient audio returning immediately afterward. The four omnidirectional mics not only let ambient and normal sounds through but also let you tell which direction they are coming from. If you need a little more volume, they are adjustable.
Outdoors, I found the protection to be more than adequate for pistols and rifles.
For indoor ranges or if you’re shooting rifles equipped with aggressive muzzle brakes, consider doubling up with foam earplugs underneath. That’s simply good practice regardless of the earmuffs you’re using.
Build Quality
These aren’t intended to compete with military-grade headsets costing hundreds of dollars; however, the overall construction feels solid. They are water- and shock-resistant, with the shells made of ABS plastic
The controls are easy to operate, the headband adjusts smoothly, and everything feels well assembled.
Value
This is where the PROHEAR 022 really shines.
They deliver the features most shooters actually want without requiring a premium price tag.
If you’re looking for your first set of electronic hearing protection or want another dependable pair for the range bag, they represent an excellent value.
Conclusions
I’ve tested a lot of shooting equipment over the years, and I’m always cautious about recommending inexpensive gear simply because it’s inexpensive. Fortunately, the PROHEAR 022 earns its place. The electronics work well while the muffs themselves are comfortable and lightweight. If you are interested in Prohear products, you can use the discount code rangehot at checkout.
Features
Four omnidirectional microphones
Electronic sound compression
Adjustable up to five times ambient noise amplification
AAA battery-powered
Foldable design
Optional gel ear cushions
AUX input
Specfications
Warranty: 1-year warranty
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: SNR 29dB
Certification: ANSI S3.19-1974 and CE EN352-4 safety certified
Technology: Automatic Gain Control (AGC) and Peak Limiting technology
Microphones: 4 omnidirectional microphones
Power: 2 AAA batteries (not included)
Material: ABS shell + Foam ear pads/Gel ear pads
Audio: High Fidelity Speakers
Ports: 3.5 mm AUX input;
Product net weight: 0.71 lb (≈322 g)
Package Includes: Ear muffs ×1, manual ×1,3.5 mm AUX cable×1, Storage bag ×1
Available in black, OD green, or pink
MSRP: $45.99
If you are interested in electronic hearing protection but prefer earbuds, check out my review of the Prohear EP05 earbuds.
The Colt’s Patent Firearms Company has a long history of smaller-caliber “pocket” semi-automatic handguns, dating to before the design and adoption of the venerable M1911 military sidearm. Among the most famous are arguably the Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless in .32 Automatic, and the Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless in .380 Automatic. These pistols enjoyed long runs…
.40 smith and Wesson ballistics test As one of the most popular defensive calibers it is only logical to include it in the series of ballistic tests I have performed. First, a little history on the .40 S&W, In 1986, Michael Lee Platt and William Russell Matix (men who had met and became friends in…
With the popularity of silencers today, there is a plethora of options available, and often, one model just bleeds into the next, making it tough to decide which one to get. If you are in the market for a 5.56×45 can, especially for your AR-15, I can offer you some help. The B&T Rotex…
This might be the longest name of a modern Striker Fired pistol. It’s time to take an in-depth visit at the brand new PERFORMANCE CENTER® M&P®9 M2.0 METAL CARRY COMP pistol from Smith & Wesson. Ergonomics of the PERFORMANCE CENTER® M&P®9 M2.0 METAL CARRY COMP This pistol has the same fantastic ergonomics, if not better…
Quality and affordable optics is usually a juxtaposition, but with Riton, a Veteran and former Federal law enforcement owned company, you can expect to get glass you can work with and not have to expend your entire gun fund. It was not long ago I reviewed the Riton Mod 3 4.5x18x40 front focal place…
Edit There is a recall on the new MK IV line of pistols, the details can be found by following this link. Suffice it to say though I had no issues with the pistol during the review. The Ruger MK series of pistols are a favorite among rimfire enthusiasts. Though plenty accurate and reliable they…
One Comment