Let’s Dive into Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve tested countless pieces of equipment, from high-end optics to essential survival tools. Hearing protection is paramount, especially in environments with gunfire or loud machinery. The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs promise electronic amplification and noise reduction at an accessible price point, piquing my interest.
I needed a reliable, comfortable, and affordable solution for hearing protection at the range and during occasional hunting trips. I’ve used passive earmuffs, but wanted the situational awareness afforded by electronic amplification. The low profile design and claimed amplified sound quality of the Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs stood out.
Upon unboxing, the Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs felt surprisingly lightweight. The black color is unobtrusive, and the adjustable headband seemed robust enough. Initial impressions suggested decent build quality for the price.
I was considering the Howard Leight Impact Sport and the Walker’s Razor Slim electronic earmuffs. I chose the Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs because of their claimed high-quality amplified sound and slim profile. The price point was also a major factor.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The earmuffs felt comfortable on my head, and the amplification seemed clear. I was eager to test their performance in a real-world shooting environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs at an outdoor shooting range. I was using a variety of firearms, including a .22LR rifle, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a 9mm pistol. The weather was dry and sunny, with a slight breeze.
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs performed adequately in the outdoor environment. The amplification allowed me to hear range commands and conversations clearly, while the noise reduction effectively dampened the sound of gunfire. I had no issues fitting them to my head with the adjustable headband.
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs were easy to use right out of the box. No special setup was required; simply insert batteries, adjust the headband, and turn them on. The volume control was intuitive and easily accessible.
The amplified sound quality was acceptable but not exceptional; it was clear enough for conversations but lacked the crispness of higher-end models.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs continue to perform reasonably well. They have been used at the range multiple times, and even during some backyard work involving power tools. The adjustable head band and ear cups have kept me confortable.
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs show minor signs of wear and tear, mostly cosmetic scratches on the plastic cups. The ear cushions remain comfortable and haven’t deteriorated noticeably.
Maintenance is simple: wiping down the earcups with a damp cloth after each use. Battery life seems reasonable, with about 20-30 hours of use per set of batteries.
Compared to my previous passive earmuffs, the Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs offer significantly improved situational awareness. However, the sound quality is noticeably inferior to higher-end electronic earmuffs I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs
Specifications
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs are manufactured by Rifleman. They feature a black color scheme and an adjustable headband.
The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is 20, providing moderate hearing protection. The earmuffs weigh approximately 7 ounces, making them lightweight and comfortable to wear. They are collapsible for easy storage.
The moderate NRR of 20 is suitable for general noise protection and small caliber shooting. The lightweight design ensures comfort during extended use.
Performance & Functionality
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs effectively reduce noise levels from gunfire and loud machinery. The electronic amplification enhances situational awareness, allowing you to hear conversations and range commands.
The strengths include affordability, lightweight design, and decent amplification. The weaknesses include a moderate NRR and somewhat muffled amplified sound quality.
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs generally meet expectations for their price range. They provide adequate hearing protection and amplification for casual shooters and general outdoor use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs feature a low-profile design that minimizes interference with rifle stocks. The adjustable headband and comfortable ear cushions ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
The earmuffs are user-friendly, with simple on/off and volume controls. The collapsible design makes them easy to store in a range bag or backpack.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs are made of durable plastic and are expected to last for several years with proper care. The ear cushions are replaceable, extending the lifespan of the product.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply wipe down the earcups with a damp cloth and replace the batteries as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs do not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard packaging. There are no specific customization options available.
While the earmuffs themselves are not customizable, they are compatible with standard safety glasses and other shooting accessories.
Pros and Cons of Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs
Pros
- Affordable electronic hearing protection and amplification.
- Comfortable ear cushions for extended use.
- Sleek and low-profile design that minimizes interference with firearms.
- Adjustable headband suitable for all shooters.
- Collapsible ear muffs for easy storage.
Cons
- Moderate Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 20 may not be sufficient for extremely loud environments.
- Amplified sound quality could be better.
Who Should Buy Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs?
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs are perfect for casual shooters, recreational hunters, and anyone needing basic electronic hearing protection for general outdoor use. They are also a good option for individuals on a budget who want to experience the benefits of electronic amplification without breaking the bank.
Individuals who require high levels of hearing protection, such as those shooting high-caliber firearms indoors, should skip this product and opt for earmuffs with a higher NRR. Competitive shooters might also prefer higher-end models with superior sound quality and advanced features.
While not mandatory, using rechargeable batteries is a good idea to reduce waste and save money in the long run.
Conclusion on Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs
The Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs offer a decent balance of affordability, comfort, and functionality. They provide adequate hearing protection and amplification for casual shooting and general outdoor use.
The price of $49.29 is justified for what you get. They are a solid entry-level option for those new to electronic hearing protection.
I would recommend the Rifleman EXS Hearing Protection Earmuffs to anyone looking for affordable and functional electronic hearing protection. Give them a try and experience the benefits of amplified sound and noise reduction for yourself.