I think we’ve all seen that old codger screw empty cases or live rounds into his ears as “hearing protection” on the range. If only on TV. But now you can hop over to ConcealedCarry.com and get a set of Ammo Ears, which provide 27 NRR of protection built off of actual, 9mm cases.
Case brands will vary, but they’re all nickel plated. They’re cleaned and buffed up prior to receiving a flanged silicone earplug tip.
The actual spent primer stays right where it belongs. I don’t know what gun my Ammo Ears’ donor cases were originally fired through, but it clearly wasn’t a GLOCK brand GLOCK 9mm.
Ammo Ears come in a handy, clamshell style carrying case with metal bead chain for attaching to a backpack, keychain, rear-view mirror, sling swivel stud, etc.
Once you purchase your Ammo Ears, you’re welcome to remove the rear label without violating Federal EPA law. Until then, you’ll be happy to note a decent NRR of 27 dB.
Screw these puppies into your ears — do it correctly! — and it’s hard not to smile. They’re always a hit on the range.
It literally looks like you’ve simply plugged your head with 9mm cases. And, in a way, you have. Except the Ammo Ears provide actual hearing protection.
I don’t find the Ammo Ears quite as comfortable as foamies, but they’re way funnier. They also install instantly; no waiting for them to expand, just plug ’em in. The Ammo Ears case lives in my range bag and I use them primarily when I’m shooting with other people. Because functional levity, mainly.
Specifications: Ammo Ears Real Bullet Earplugs
Made From: nickel plated 9mm spent cases and silicone
NRR: 27 dB
MSRP: $9.99 via ConcealedCarry.com
Ratings (out of five stars):
Comfort * * *
Flanged silicone tips are not my favorite and never have been. Ammo Ears’ are as good as any, it just isn’t my jam (so to speak) compared to expanding foam. It does, of course, have advantages: instant installation, long-term durability, and the ability to be cleaned.
Noise Reduction * * * *
27 dB NRR is quite good for silicone plugs.
Fun Factor * * * * *
As hearing protection goes, Ammo Ears are a riot.
Overall * * * *
Ammo Ears don’t provide the highest NRR available and aren’t the most comfortable ear protection available, but they rank solidly in both of those categories while bringing a fun sense of humor to the range. I dig ’em.