I wear both plugs and muffs for longer sessions or handgun shooting, but still don't wear anything for hunting or the occasional single shot out the window with a .22 at a groundhog in the garden. Hunting related hearing loss is less risky nowadays in Pennsylvania. Pheasants are about extinct and deer are an endangered species. Thanks Pa. Game Comission. Like Jimmy W, I did some time as an electrician in a steel mill and have some hearing loss. Our Motor Room was like standing behind a jet taking off, all day. Years of shooting, loud music, power tools, and chain saws added damage. I was somewhat surprised to see a common hammer striking a nail generate a higher decibel level than a pneumatic framing nailer on "This Old House". If I could go back in time I'd be more diligent about hearing protection.
