Let’s Dive into Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs
The Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs promises a complete solution for hearing and eye protection at the range, all at a price that raises an eyebrow – in a good way. Walkers is known for providing accessible hearing protection, and this combo seems to take that philosophy even further by bundling essential safety gear together. I was intrigued by the promise of a budget-friendly, all-in-one solution that could eliminate the need to purchase separate earmuffs and glasses.
My aging ears have definitely taken a beating over the years from shooting and other loud noises. Finding a reliable and comfortable solution for range days is always a priority, and the potential savings of a bundled kit like this were very appealing. I was tired of juggling separate ear muffs and glasses that didn’t always fit well together.
Upon unboxing the Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs, I was pleasantly surprised by the lightness of the materials. The earmuffs felt less bulky than some of my older models, and the glasses seemed sturdy enough for basic range use. The folding design of the earmuffs is a definite plus for compact storage.
I was initially considering the Howard Leight Impact Sport earmuffs and Pyramex I-Force Safety Glasses as separate purchases. I also looked at a similar combo kit from Caldwell. Ultimately, the significantly lower price of the Walkers combo swayed my decision, hoping that the performance would be adequate.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the price was right, and the components looked like they could do the job. The true test, of course, would be at the range. Would they actually protect my hearing and vision effectively without sacrificing comfort?
Real-World Testing: Putting Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs was at my local outdoor shooting range on a relatively calm day. I was primarily shooting pistols, including 9mm and .45 ACP, which offer a good test of noise reduction capabilities. I tested the kit for about 3 hours.
The earmuffs did a decent job of attenuating the sharp crack of gunfire, although I could still definitely hear the shots. The included foam plugs, when used in conjunction with the muffs, provided a noticeable improvement in noise reduction. The glasses offered adequate eye protection, and the yellow lenses made the targets appear sharper in the slightly overcast conditions.
I found myself adjusting the earmuffs frequently, as they didn’t quite sit properly over my ears, and the headband felt a little tight after prolonged use. The glasses, while providing good coverage, tended to fog up slightly during periods of intense focus and exertion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs have held up reasonably well, considering the price point. The earmuffs show no signs of physical damage, though the PVC ear pads are starting to feel a little less soft. The glasses have accumulated a few minor scratches, despite my best efforts to keep them clean.
Cleaning the earmuffs is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The glasses require a bit more care to avoid scratching the lenses. Compared to my higher-end electronic earmuffs, the Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs definitely fall short in terms of comfort and overall noise reduction. However, for the price, they serve their basic purpose adequately.
Breaking Down the Features of Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Walkers.
- Color: Black.
- NRR: 30 dB (earmuffs) / 31 dB (foam plugs).
- Quantity: 1 (set).
- Included Accessories: Protective sport glasses and foam plugs.
- Condition: New.
- Age Group: Adults.
- Lens Color: Yellow.
- Frame Color: Black.
- Gender: Unisex.
The NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) of 30 dB for the earmuffs is fairly standard for passive hearing protection. The extra 31 dB provided by the foam earplugs is a great addition for louder environments or extra sensitive hearing. The inclusion of glasses with yellow lenses enhances contrast in various lighting conditions and is essential for eye protection against debris.
Performance & Functionality
The Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs effectively reduce the noise from gunfire to a manageable level, especially when combined with the foam earplugs. The glasses provide a clear field of vision and adequate protection against stray projectiles. However, the comfort level is not ideal for extended use, and the earmuffs may not fit all head sizes perfectly.
The earmuffs perform their primary function of noise reduction reasonably well for a passive system. The glasses do a good job of protecting the eyes, although the lack of anti-fog coating is a minor inconvenience. The non-adjustable headband is a weak point, and the earcups don’t always create a perfect seal for all users.
Design & Ergonomics
The earmuffs feature a compact folding design for easy storage and transport. The padded headband and soft PVC ear pads aim to provide a comfortable fit, though this is somewhat subjective. The sport glasses are lightweight and offer a ratcheting lens pitch adjustment for a customizable fit.
The build quality is acceptable for the price, but the materials feel somewhat cheap compared to higher-end alternatives. The lightweight design is a plus, but the lack of adjustability in the headband is a significant drawback. The glasses are reasonably comfortable, but the tendency to fog up can be distracting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs are reasonably durable for occasional use. The PVC ear pads may eventually wear out, but they are replaceable. Cleaning is straightforward: wipe down the earmuffs with a damp cloth and clean the glasses with a lens cleaner.
Given the price, I wouldn’t expect these to last for years of heavy use, but they should hold up well for the average recreational shooter. The PVC ear pads are likely the first component to degrade, particularly with frequent use. Regular cleaning and proper storage will help prolong the lifespan of the product.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs come with the essential accessories: a pair of protective sport glasses and foam earplugs. There are no customization options for the earmuffs themselves, but the glasses can be replaced with other models that meet ANSI Z87.1 standards. Aftermarket ear pads may be available from third-party vendors.
The basic kit provides everything you need to get started. The foam earplugs are a welcome addition, providing an extra layer of protection in loud environments. While there are no specific Walkers accessories for this particular model, the standard design allows for some degree of compatibility with generic ear pads and safety glasses.
Pros and Cons of Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs
Pros
- Excellent value for the price.
- Decent noise reduction (30dB NRR) for the earmuffs alone; even better with earplugs.
- Includes safety glasses with yellow lenses for enhanced contrast.
- Compact folding design for easy storage.
- Lightweight and relatively comfortable (for short periods).
Cons
- Non-adjustable headband may not fit all head sizes comfortably.
- PVC ear pads are not the most comfortable and may wear out quickly.
- The glasses lack an anti-fog coating.
Who Should Buy Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs?
The Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs are perfect for recreational shooters on a tight budget or those who only visit the range occasionally. This kit is also well-suited for beginners who need a basic set of hearing and eye protection without breaking the bank. Anyone needing a backup set of protective gear would also benefit from this kit.
Individuals with larger head sizes or those who prioritize maximum comfort during extended shooting sessions should skip this product. Competitive shooters or professionals who require superior noise reduction and durability should consider investing in higher-end electronic earmuffs and specialized shooting glasses.
A must-have accessory would be an anti-fog spray for the glasses to improve visibility in humid conditions. A small carrying case to protect the glasses from scratches would also be a wise investment.
Conclusion on Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs
The Walkers EXT External Folding Range Shooting Ear Muffs w/ Glasses and Plugs offer an unbeatable value proposition for those seeking basic hearing and eye protection at the range. While the comfort and durability may not match higher-end options, the performance is adequate for most recreational shooting scenarios. The price is definitely justified, making this an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone starting out in shooting sports or needing a reliable backup set of protection. It’s a no-frills, get-the-job-done solution that won’t leave you disappointed, especially considering the low cost. Get yours today and enjoy safe and protected shooting!