Another question on hearing protection

First topic message reminder :

Having found I am not getting consistent protection from loud noise from David Clark Model 19A Mickey-Mouse ears and high -NRR foam ear plugs I have met with an audiologist for custom fit ear plugs and plan to try adding mass loaded vinyl matting to the headset to try to get better noise reduction.

David Clark Model 19A

David Clark Eyeglass Cushions

David Clark Gel Filled Ear Seals

The idea with the custom fit ear plugs is more consistent fit and noise reduction than foam ear plugs. I like the David Clark headsets for easy maintenance and large volume but would really like to get the highest noise reduction possible to keep from going to the audiologist for more expensive products like hearing aids.

Anyone have suggestions on other noise reduction strategies? I know there are some shooting sports specific hearing protection advertised but I notice they don't always offer OSHA type NRR sheets on their performance.

cuslog wrote:Best "off the shelf" plugs I've found are (I think) 3M -- Nacar themed -- shaped like a piston and connecting rod. Initially bought them as a "novelty item" because I was going to a Drag Race event but when I used them, I found the noise reduction to be significantly better than others I had used in the past. The connecting rod makes for a convenient handle when removing them too !

  Cuslog, I've been looking for those ear plugs for years. We used to get those from the hearing test company at my railroad job, he'd give you a hand full of what ever style you liked. I think they were a gray piston with black con rod, I'll have to see if I can find some now I know who makes them, yes they are very effective. They always reminded me of the Detroit Pistons, still my favorite.
  Thanks, Stan

3M:tm: E-A-R:tm: Pistonz Earplugs, P1400, grey, uncorded
You can get 'em corded too, if that's what you prefer.

Those are very cool! "Officially licensed hearing protection of Nascar". The shape is actually practical.

https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-us/all-3m-products/~/3M-E-A-R-Pistonz-Earplugs-P1400-Uncorded-400-Pair-Case/?N=5002385+3294754075&rt=rud

Looks like a bag of 400 pair goes for about $85 on amazon...

[Edited for math oops]

math?   
$85/400=$0.21 a pair.   I noticed the rating is only 29 dB, others plugs rate at 32 and 33 dB reduction, which makes sense as the distance of the blocked ear canal is shorter than a roll-up plug.

If these are working better than the roll up, it could be that you aren't getting the roll ups inserted deep enough, or they are too small for your ear canal, or your ear canal is an unusual shape.

Just like our equipment, you have to have confidence in whatever you use.