ear plugs: impulse or digital - Your experience.

[Reverend P. Babcock Chase]

HRowdy Cowboys,

I wear hearing aids. If I use regular ear plugs, I can't hear the timer. I have 2 remaining "sonic" or impulse plugs that let me hear the timer, but since my earring aids are not in my ears I have real trouble with conversations (a big part of hanging out with my cowboy buddies.) Also, I'm not sure they even make the impulse or "sonic" plugs anymore.

I've looked at the digital plugs on line and must admit that I have learned enough to be totally confused as to what I should consider. Rechargeable models don't seem to offer enough time between charges. Battery models would let me change batteries mid match if needed. Plus the reviews on both are all over the place.

I'm so confused. Please help me with your experience and recommendations.

Rev. Chase

[Froogal]

I don't wear hearing aids, so I'm not much help there, but I have researched some of the electronic devices for hearing protection. The type that allow for normal conversation, but will muffle the LOUD noises such as gunfire, and yes, it does get to be quite confusing. Some of them probably will not hold a charge long enough to complete a full shooting session, and then there is the price. WOW.

[Oregon Bill]

Interesting topic, as I am destined for hearings aids very soon. The cheap foam plugs always seem to fall out, so I am looking at the around-the-neck models for "pertection." Wasn't even aware of the digital plugs.

[Ranch 13]

I don't wear hearing aids,(probably should) but I have used both the Walker earbuds, and the Axil's.
They both work well and with the volume adjustment you can hear range commands, and even conversations down the line. They both pickup the sound of the wind blowing, which can either be a distraction or an assist depending on the type of shooting at the time

 The Walkers you need to keep a good supply of #10 hearing aid batteries on hand it is sort of weird how one set of batteries might last a day or two, the  next set might not get thru the day. They also transmit sound and you can hear the hammer cocking and the sear releasing when shooting rifles.

 The Axils, I have both the tethered and the indecent model, both will bluetooth to other devices. The tethered ones the cord needs be a bit longer as they do restrict your head movements. The axils work more along the lines of noise reduction and not as sensitive to other sounds but will shut down the higher decibel stuff from muzzle blast etc.
 It's really important to use the right size foam plugs on them to keep them snug fitting and not fall out at a bad time.