Month: March 2021

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Smith & Wesson Reports Record-Setting Third Quarter 2021

From Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, today announced financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2021 ended January 31, 2021. On August 24, 2020, the company completed the previously announced spin-off of its outdoor products and accessories business. Therefore, as of the second quarter, all historical financial information for that business is reported as discontinued operations. Unless otherwise indicated, any reference to income statement items refers to results from continuing operations.

Third Quarter Fiscal 2021 Consolidated Financial Highlights

  • Quarterly net sales were $257.6 million compared with $127.4 million for the comparable quarter last year, an increase of 102.2%.
  • Gross margin for the quarter was 42.6% compared with 28% for the comparable quarter last year.
  • Quarterly GAAP net income was a record $62.3 million, or $1.12 per diluted share, compared with $4.2 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, for the comparable quarter last year.
  • Quarterly non-GAAP net income was $62.4 million, or $1.12 per diluted share, compared with $7.8 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, for the comparable quarter last year. GAAP to non-GAAP adjustments for income exclude costs related to the spin-off of the outdoor products and accessories business, COVID-19 related expenses, and other costs. For a detailed reconciliation, see the schedules that follow in this release.
  • Quarterly non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDAS was $89.8 million, or 34.9% of net sales, compared with $15.0 million, or 11.8% of net sales, for the comparable quarter last year.

Mark Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “I could not be more proud of our dedicated American workforce as, for the third time in a row, they delivered a record-breaking quarter for our great historic company. Over the past year, millions of our fellow Americans from all walks of life have chosen to empower themselves by exercising their 2nd Amendment rights for the first time, and our loyal employees have risen to the challenge – delivering over 1.8 million units in the first three quarters of our fiscal year alone, ensuring that these new members of the shooting sports community were able to choose the highest quality, innovative firearms that Smith & Wesson has been known for since 1852. All of this was accomplished while implementing and maintaining aggressive safety measures and process changes to keep safe in the midst of the COVID pandemic.”

Deana McPherson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, commented, “Smith & Wesson’s record-breaking financial performance enabled us to generate $60 million of cash from operations during the quarter. This allowed us to complete a $50 million dollar share-repurchase program, pay our second quarter dividend, and continue to invest in capital, all while growing our cash on hand by $4.1 million during the quarter. I am pleased to announce that our Board has authorized a new $100 million dollar share repurchase program and a $0.05 per share dividend to stockholders of record as of March 17, 2021, with payment to be made on March 31, 2021.”

The amount and timing of any repurchases will depend on a number of factors, including price, trading volume, general market conditions, legal requirements, and other factors. The repurchases may be made on the open market, in block trades, or in privately negotiated transactions. Any shares of common stock repurchased under the program will be considered issued but not outstanding shares of the company’s common stock.

Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In this press release, certain non-GAAP financial measures, including “non-GAAP net income,” “Adjusted EBITDAS,” and “free cash flow” are presented. From time-to-time, the company considers and uses these supplemental measures of operating performance in order to provide the reader with an improved understanding of underlying performance trends. The company believes it is useful for itself and the reader to review, as applicable, both (1) GAAP measures that include (i) amortization of acquired intangible assets, (ii) transition costs, (iii) change in contingent consideration, (iv) CEO separation, (v) the tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments, (vi) COVID-19 expenses, (vii) net cash used in investing activities, (viii) interest expense, (ix) income tax expense, (x) depreciation and amortization, and (xi) stock-based compensation expenses; and (2) the non-GAAP measures that exclude such information. The company presents these non-GAAP measures because it considers them an important supplemental measure of its performance. The company’s definition of these adjusted financial measures may differ from similarly named measures used by others. The company believes these measures facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period by eliminating potential differences caused by the existence and timing of certain expense items that would not otherwise be apparent on a GAAP basis. These non-GAAP measures have limitations as an analytical tool and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the company’s GAAP measures. The principal limitations of these measures are that they do not reflect the company’s actual expenses and may thus have the effect of inflating its financial measures on a GAAP basis.

About Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality handgun, long gun, and suppressor products to the global consumer and professional markets under the iconic Smith & Wesson®, M&P®, Thompson/Center Arms™, and Gemtech® brands. The company also provides manufacturing services including forging, machining, and precision plastic injection molding services. For more information call (844) 363-5386 or visit www.smith-wesson.com.

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DeSantis Announces New Holsters for Springfield Armory Hellcat RDPs

From DeSantis

For nearly five decades, DeSantis has been developing, designing, and manufacturing the very best gun holsters that money can buy. We pride ourselves on using the best American-Premium hides and the toughest synthetics available for our holsters and accessories.

#195 Veiled Partner™

The #195, Veiled Partner™, is an OWB precision molded Kydex® holster. The exacting curvature allows for maximum concealment and fits like a second skin. It can easily be configured for both height and cant using 1 ½” or 1 ¾” loop openings. It has adjustable tension and is optics compatible. It is available in both right and left-hand variants for many popular semi-autos. MSRP is $59.99

Please visit our website for more info: https://www.desantisholster.com/veiled-partner/

#127 Inside Heat™

This is a barebones minimum IWB holster built from black saddle leather. The precise molded contours provide the weapon retention. The top is reinforced to ease re-holstering and the powder coated spring clip secures it to your belt. It is only available in black saddle leather in both right and left-hand models. MSRP price is $48.99

Please visit our website for more info: https://www.desantisholster.com/INSIDE-HEAT

DeSantis Gunhide® is a leading holster manufacturer for city, state and federal law enforcement agencies, the U.S. armed forces, as well as hunting/sport shooting organizations around the world. DeSantis delivers a full range of holster products and accessories designed to meet or exceed the needs of its customers.

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Safariland Liberator Single and Dual-Channel Communication Headsets

From Safariland

Safariland, a brand of The Safariland Group, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets, is excited to announce the next generation of Safariland Liberator® headset. The new Liberator® IV/V communications headsets are easily adaptable to mission-specific needs, reduce hazardous noise and allow for active single-channel or dual-channel communication.

“The new Liberator IV and V mark the pinnacle of Safariland’s comms development,” stated James Imhoff, VP & GM of Diversified Products at Safariland. “The Liberator IV is an advanced, single-channel headset system utilizing the newly designed TCI multi-mode Earcup. For those who need dual-channel functionality, we’ve updated the Liberator V. Law enforcement and military users alike can confidently utilize these robust products in any tactical situation. The Liberators provide the ultimate protection while enabling clear communication—both of which are crucial for maximal situational awareness.”

The Liberator IV is the first multi-mode, dual fuel single communications headset on the market. This single communications channel package is a 100% US designed and manufactured tactical headset. The Dual Fuel system allows the Liberator IV to run on two AAA or one CR123 battery. The headset offers operational modes for all high noise situations. The Liberator IV can protect against impulse noise, like gun fire, and steady state noise, like operating on a helicopter. It is the first headset with user audio profiles modifiable with simple keystrokes on the headset. MSRP $647-$857.

The Liberator V adds updated dual-channel communications to the Liberator platform. These are the ultimate dual channel circumaural headphones. This system gives military and law enforcement end users the confidence to utilize communications networks using mixed encryption in any tactical environment and are equipped with Safariland’s Radio Audio Channel Enhancement (R.A.C.E) technology that can play incoming audio in stereo and isolate simultaneous dual-channel feeds. R.A.C.E allows for natural replication of audio communication and clear channel delineation during overlaps. MSRP $695-$850.

FEATURES

  • First of its kind Multi-Profile Tactical Headset: Active Noise Reduction (ANR), Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and Dual Mode with ANR/ANC simultaneously.
  • Backwards compatible with TCI single communications systems.
  • Industry leading sound localization for maximum situational awareness and threat detection.
  • Multiple single communications Push-to-Talk options available.
  • Proprietary high-definition speakers and speaker enclosures.
  • Advanced RF and TDMA PCB protection technology.
  • Boom microphone featuring advanced RF and Acoustics Interference Shielding.
  • Adaptive headset suspension can be easily changed with no tools between over-the-head, behind-the-head, or helmet rail mounted options.
  • Proprietary, slim earcup design layered with sound barrier technology.
  • The Liberator V adds R.4 dual communications Push-to-Talk available – compatible with R.A.C.E.

About Safariland Communication Products

Safariland manufactures high-performance, custom communication headsets, audio solutions, and commercial off-the-shelf communications products. Today’s product line grew out of the highly-regarded Tactical Communications Industries TCI brand, founded in 1996 by a group of law enforcement professionals with extensive experience in tactical training and mission work. Safariland brand is part of The Safariland Group. Established in 1964, the Safariland® brand has earned worldwide renown and a leadership position in the industry for its technologically advanced holsters, body armor and communications to the law enforcement, military, concealment and competitive sporting markets.

For more information, please visit www.safariland.com.

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Rocky Stratum Outdoor Jacket in Realtree EDGE Camo

From Realtree

The Rocky Stratum Outdoor Jacket in Realtree EDGE Camo has every feature a hunter needs to experience success. Rocky Scent IQ Atomic destroys human scent on the microbial level to help ensure the critters you’re after are unaware of your presence. The moisture-wicking material and DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating keeps you dry throughout the hunt, no matter the conditions. Wind-resistant construction and heat-retention lining provide warm comfort when temperatures dip.

Additional features include YKK zippers and quilted shoulders and arms for added comfort.

  • YKK zippers
  • Moisture wicking
  • DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating
  • Wind-resistant construction
  • Heat-retention lining
  • Quilted shoulder and arm for added comfort
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X-Vision Optics Red Dots and Magnifier

From X-Vision Optics

Two new red dot sights and a red dot magnifier kickoff a spring of new product introductions for X-Vision Optics. The product development team at X-Vision used customer input and field trials to build out a lineup of red dots that are the perfect combination of precision, durability, and attainability.

The red dot roster includes the Micro HIIT that uses a compact size with a reinforced frame to house a 3 MOA dot. A light sensor automatically adjusts the brightness, so you don’t have to. The extended base mounts easily and gives the user a more comfortable view when acquiring target. The ZONE model features a tapered tube design for the best possible optical experience. A 2 MOA dot with eleven brightness settings gives you versatility in any condition. With 22,500 hours of battery life on the middle setting it outperforms comparable red dot sights everywhere. Both the Micro HIIT and ZONE are incredibly fast and accurate, easy to adjust and have unlimited eye relief.

Supporting the two red dots is the MAAG red dot magnifier giving a 3x magnification boost to compatible sights and a flip-aside design allowing you to easily switch from 1x to 3x. All red dots and the magnifier have reinforced housings, waterproof ratings, and easy to attach Picatinny mounts creating a lineup that is torture tested and ready to take a beating.

“You will not find a better combination of features and durability on the market,” said Chris Shimek, Owner and Partner of X-Vision Optics. “These new red dots are the perfect options for those who want long-lasting, high performing equipment at a price that doesn’t crush the pocketbook.”

The robust reticles X-Vision is putting out are the beginning of a host of new products coming out this Spring from X-Vision. Additional red dots will hit the market in April along with a range finding lineup that can’t be missed. The growing offering makes X-Vision a formidable player in the outdoor optics market.

“Customers have been looking for quality optics solutions that will not cost them a mortgage payment,” said Shimek. “We live and breathe the outdoors and have set out to build optics that support the needs of those just like us.”

To learn more, visit www.xvisionoptics.com.

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Expert Advice on Hearing Protection for Shooters: Interview with TETRA Hearing

I recently interviewed Dr. Bill Dickinson, co-founder and CEO of TETRA Hearing, and asked him to dispense some expert advice on hearing protection for shooters. Here’s what the audiologist with 29 years of experience had to say.

GJS—What are the major advantages of a shooter using electronic hearing protection?

DBD—Electronic hearing protection is mostly all about the hearing side and less about the protection side. A finger tightly sealed in the ear canal or a foam plug does an adequate job of protecting, but it also does a perfect job of creating a poor listening experience. Hence, combining an amplifier with the protection was supposed to create a better listening experience, and it did 20 years ago. The problem is that until TETRA, most of the electronic circuits on the market are using low-end amplifiers, that is literally 20-year-old technology. TETRA uses a very high-end, premium sound system and is fully committed to creating an exceptional listening experience whether on the range or in the woods, and then fully protect at trigger pull. We only use the very same sound processing chips used in high-end hearing aids, so TETRA provides the ultimate and most natural hearing experience on the market.

GJS—Without diving too deep into the technology, how does electronic hearing protection let conversations and range commands pass?

DBD—In short, amplification circuits in general are capable of separating loud sounds from softer sounds and can process those inputs differently. Basically, soft inputs get amplified the most and as the sound input increases, the amount of amplification decreases. The more channels or bands of sound processing, the better a circuit can target desirable sounds and separate them from undesirable sounds.

It is best to think of this in music. You can have a single singer with no instruments and you turn the words up or down in volume since it is just the words. Add in a guitar and now you have to balance between the guitar and the singer, or one will drown out the other. Now add in drums, and bass guitar, and backup vocals….The more input requires more balancing of each input, so that everything is balanced. If the drums are turned up too loud, it will drown out or distort all the other inputs. All of this balancing is done with multiple channels or bands to manage the different sounds.

It’s the same thing processing in an amplification circuit. Everyday life on the range or in a hunting situation has multiple different sounds at multiple different loudness input levels. If you only have one or two channels of sound processing—like almost all electronic shooting protection— then all sounds are combined in one or two channels and it all gets distorted. However, if you can separate all incoming sounds of different frequencies and different loudness levels into multiple bands, then you can control the sound processing in each of those bands to have a balanced output in the end… just like a song on the radio. TETRA has 12 or 16 channels/ bands of sound processing, which is what allows the output sound to be highly monitored and controlled.

GJS—Is there clipping or filtering involved, and if so it the blocked noise determined by frequency or loudness?

DBD—As in the above channel description, yes there is a ton of filtering going on to get the appropriate sounds in the specific frequency bands and then there is sound being limited by different ratios in each band, but in TETRA we do not just peak clip sound. Peak clipping causes significant distortion, so we do significant processing to slowly reduce sound before it is limited, thus no distortion in the final output.

GJS—Does that filtering begin with the microphone and is there an advantage to more than one mike?

DBD—From a technical standpoint, filtering occurs in a pre-amplifier, not a microphone. Most single or two channel systems do not even incorporate a pre-amplifier or if they do, it only makes gross filtering—like all bass or all treble.

Two microphones make a big difference in separating location of different sound inputs—like speech in front and noise somewhere else around us. In this case, two mics do separate noise (back/side) from speech (front) since we are almost always positioning the speech of what we want to hear in front of us. Unless, like in a car scenario with a driver/ passenger and we can dedicate a mic arrangement from getting sound on the side.

For shooting protection, two mics serve no additional benefits —other than for the manufacturer who can sell it for more money perhaps!

GJS—Should shooters be concerned about battery life?

DBD—After 29 years in the hearing industry, I see hearing aid battery life as a non-starter. Batteries are easily accessible and inexpensive and last 10 to 20 days each and easy to replace. In 29 years, I have yet to see any consumer advantage or disadvantage across various battery life scenarios.

GJS—Getting a good cheek weld with some electronic hearing protection when shouldering a rifle is a real challenge. Does your company have models that address the problem?

DBD—TETRA absolutely removes this issue for the shooter. We were dedicated to creating a fully in the ear design to overcome this very issue.

GJS—Do you recommend doubled up with foamies when using hearing protection, say for example when shooting a .50 BMG at a firing line with a metal roof? 

DBD—Short answer is yes. There are multiple variables tied to needing double protection, but yes this example above is very much spot on for when double protection is needed.

A significant benefit with TETRA in a double protection scenario is that you can amplify the soft speech from using a TETRA in the ear, as well as double protection. This has been a tremendous benefit for the shooting community.

GJS—Is there anything you’d like to add that I didn’t ask?

DBD—In short, protecting the ear does not and should not be associated with creating a poor listening experience—lets call it what it is, a crappy listening experience. Hearing protection doesn’t have to suck!

Extending that thought process, in terms of range safety, there should be some minimal baseline criteria for minimal hearing ability. Being able to monitor range environment via hearing is a major component to keeping a range safe, or taking instructions from a shooting instructor or range officer. Take an average mild or moderate hearing loss and put in foam plugs or non-electronic earmuffs is basically creating a deaf shooter—and most shooters have much more than a mild hearing loss. Good communication is mandatory for creating a safe range environment.

Not only does TETRA not create a significantly hearing-impaired shooter but providing exceptional amplification, we also customize true hearing ability for the TETRA user by custom programming for each ear. This is the exact same process that occurs with expensive hearing aid purchases.

Additionally, good and effective hearing is mandatory for proper instruction, which is much bigger part of gun ownership than ever before. As well as what was expressed before about proper head and cheek position.

I interviewed more experts on today’s hearing protection for shooters. Here’s what they told me.

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Expert Advice on Hearing Protection for Shooters: Interview with AXIL Hearing Performance

I recently had a chance to interview Wes Harris, Founder and CEO of AXIL Hearing Performance who’s been in the business for 26 years. I asked him for his expert advice on hearing protection for shooters.

GJS—What are the major advantages of a shooter using electronic hearing protection?

WH—Maintain situational awareness, 360-degree hearing and that competitive edge in all your shooting activities, while protecting the hearing you have at the same time! 

 GJS—Without diving too deep into the technology, how does electronic hearing protection let conversations and range commands pass through while blocking the dangerously loud report of a firearm

WH—Modern electronic and digital technology allows the simultaneous advantage of enhancing your hearing to hear the desired sounds around you, i.e. range commands, general conversation and the detailed sounds you need to maintain the edge in your sport, while automatically compressing the loud sounds that bombard your ears/hearing.

GJS—Is there clipping or filtering involved, and if so it the blocked noise determined by frequency or loudness?

WH—Electronic hearing protection works on ‘clipping’ the top of the loud sounds to make them less damaging. Digital technology ‘filters’ or ‘compresses’ loud sounds, by actually converting physical sound waves entering your ears into digital code, which can then be changed to be an entirely different sound via the program that has been programmed into the digital circuitry—this is the absolute best hearing protection you can buy.

GJS—Does that filtering begin with the microphone and is there an advantage to more than one mike?

WH—Additional ‘filtering’ is available through directional microphones on various ear pro devices to help filter the oncoming sounds through the use of two microphones. This is helpful for larger ear devices, i.e. ear muffs, etc. but is not needed for small in-the-ear hearing and protection devices.

GJS—Should shooters be concerned about battery life?

WH—There are several great options on various ear pro for satisfactory battery life, i.e. hearing aid batteries for small in ear devices, AA or AAA batteries for ear muffs, rechargeable lithium batteries in the lanyard for new electronic earbuds are the main options that work well.

GJS—Getting a good cheek weld with some electronic hearing protection when shouldering a rifle is a real challenge. Does your company have models that address the problem?

WH—AXIL Custom Edge Series (Custom 360 is most popular and absolute top of the line in the field)

GS EXTREME Earbud is the most cutting-edge earbud available and for a great price. GS Digital gives all the advantage of digital and small in the ear for a very affordable price. All above 3 models and styles have 0 interference with cheekweld as all ear muffs do. These options are also far more comfortable to wear daily without the bulk of the earmuffs.

GJS—Is the decibel reduction about the same in all electronic hearing protection and how much of it is determined by the seal/construction of the ear muffs?

WH—Good hearing protection ranges between 20-30 dB Noise Reduction Rating- the higher the number the better the protection. There are a few options that go as high as 31-32 but 20-30 is the general range.

Many ear muffs do not seal the ear adequately and leave space for unnecessary exposure to sound. Getting a proper seal on ear muffs or in ear products is everything to getting great hearing protection. Well fit, great sealed in ear protection gives you the best seal available and therefore the best hearing protection. Sealing the ear canal off is the first and most important level of hearing protection you should always focus on.

GJS—Do you recommend doubled up with foamies when using hearing protection, say for example when shooting a .50 BMG at a firing line with a metal roof?

WH—If you are shooting indoors with concrete or metal surroundings make sure to seal the ear canal off properly and then doubling up with ear muffs on top of that is always a good idea to have the highest protection possible.

GJS—When selecting a set of electronic hearing protection, what are the most critical ratings they should look for?

WH—There are two types of hearing protection:

1. The physical blocking of your ear canal to minimize oncoming sounds. This is rated as the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) which means the amount of dBs the physical plug minimizes the oncoming sounds by. Make sure your ear pro has 20-30 dB NRR- the higher the better.

2. If it’s electronic or digital hearing protection, then when sounds come out of the hearing device, you want them to be limited to a max of 85 dB to protect your hearing. This essentially is the technology shut off level. So just look and make sure you can see at what sound level by dBs the technology will shut off at- there is not a rating for this- just a number to watch for. 

GJS—Is there anything you’d like to add that I didn’t ask?

WH—There is a long floating misconception that the bigger the ear pro and earmuff, the better the protection and that ear muffs give the best protection. We constantly see ‘The Top Ten’ Ear Pro of the Year and it’s all ear muffs that are listed.

The path of least resistance is where the greatest exposure to the inner ear happens and thereby damage to the cochlea/inner ear occurs. The absolute best and most critical hearing protection is to seal the ear canal off. Properly fit in ear protection is the best there is, then if you have extreme situations, i.e. large calibers, indoor shooting ranges, etc. and you have sensitive hearing, then doubling up with ear muffs gives added, excellent protection.

Then pay attention to the two types of hearing protection-see above-Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)- preferably between 20-30 dB NRR and then the Technology Shut Off-, preferably around 85-90 dB. Then add the features that you want, i.e. volume controls, push buttons, Bluetooth audio, type of battery, type of fit, lanyard, etc. to your ear pro and you will have ear pro that will last you a long time and you will be happy with and get the advantage of great hearing and hearing protection in all your shooting activities. 

Plus, if you need hearing aids for hearing loss and daily hearing aid wear, you can now get them with hearing protection built in, so you have the best hearing aids and hearing protection money can buy and have the best hearing system on the planet through custom fit in ear and behind ear hearing aids with protection.

I interviewed more experts on today’s hearing protection for shooters. Here’s what they told me.

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Expert Advice on Hearing Protection for Shooters: Interview with Champion Range & Targets

I recently interviewed Will Hemeyer, senior product manager for Champion Range & Targets. I asked him specifically about hearing protection for shooters. Here’s what he had to say.

GJS—What are the major advantages of a shooter using electronic hearing protection?

WH—One of the key advantages of electronic hearing protection over passive hearing protection is surrounding sound can be amplified while harmful impact noises are not.  So, when using electronic hearing protection you are able to hear what is going on around you.  Most electronic hearing protection also has settings where it will amplify sounds so if you are using them in the field you can usually hear more than if you didn’t have hearing protection on at all. 

GJS—Without diving too deep into the technology, how does electronic hearing protection let conversations and range commands pass through, while blocking the dangerously loud report of a firearm? 

WH—The actual circuitry of the electronics is designed to keep loud noises over 85dB from processing through to the speakers while any sound under 85dB is amplified.   

GJS—Is there clipping or filtering involved, and if so it the blocked noise determined by frequency or loudness? 

WH—There are really two main types of technology that are being used. You have clipping that will cut off all electronic sound, which are typically found on the lower end electronic hearing protection. Then you have compression technology that will compress any sound over a certain level so the lower dB sounds still come through. Compression technology is typically found on the higher quality products.

GJS—Does that filtering begin with the microphone and is there an advantage to more than one mike?

WH—Clipping and compression is done in the circuitry. The big advantage to more than one microphone is the units are able to give you a more 360-degree sound if two or more multi-directional microphone are being used.

GJS—Should shooters be concerned about battery life?

WH—Battery life is one thing that you should always care about. It is more of a hassle if you are in a range session and your batteries die. Typically most units on the market anymore have really good battery life and they also have a program in the circuitry that turns them off after a set amount of time. This is a very useful feature, as many users forget to turn them off and throw them in their range bag. If they didn’t have the auto-shutoff the next time they went to the range they would have to replace the batteries.

GJS—Getting a good cheek weld with some electronic hearing protection when shouldering a rifle is a real challenge. Does your company have models that address the problem? 

WH—The Vanquish line was specifically designed to maintain optimal cheek weld without the units interfering with the stock.  The Vanquish line was designed from the ground up for the shooting sports knowing that we needed to find the perfect combination for shooters that provided unparalleled comfort, minimum interreference with cheek weld, top-notch sound quality and really good NRR ratings. 

GJS—Is the decibel reduction about the same in all electronic hearing protection and how much of it is determined by the seal/construction of the ear muffs?

WH—This is really dependent on the shape and construction of the hearing protection. You will typically get a higher NRR in bigger bulkier hearing protection. The slimmer the hearing protection typically the lower the NRR rating.

GJS—Do you recommend doubled up with foamies when using hearing protection, say for example when shooting a .50 BMG at a firing line with a metal roof?

WH—For maximum protection I would double up with foamies with any over-ear hearing protection. This is especially true when shooting at in-door ranges, if I am going to be around a lot of rifles with muzzle breaks and loud pistols and this is where electronics really come into play because you can amplify the other sounds at the range.     

GJS—When selecting a set of electronic hearing protection, what are the most critical ratings they should look for? 

WH—There are a number of things that I look for and it really comes down to personal preference as people weight their requirements different. First and foremost to me, is if they are not comfortable, do not fit right you are not going to use them like you should. So making sure they are comfortable for an extended period of time and fit without the seal breaking in you intended position is very important. NRR is very important also. Always look for hearing protection that has the highest NRR value and meets your needs. Other important things to look for are the type of microphones and speakers. An omnidirectional microphone will pick up more sound around you versus a directional mic that pics up in the direction it is pointed. The speakers are important to give good clean natural sound so you will use them more than at just the range. I use my Vanquish Pro Elites on airplane flights because they have Active Noise Cancelation so I can connect to my phone or iPad and cancel out all surrounding noise. 

GJS—Is there anything you’d like to add that I didn’t ask?

WH—We noticed that there really had not been a lot advancement in electronic hearing protection over the years. A lot of the product on the market has been an industrial hearing protection that has been adapted to work with the shooting sports and marketed to shooters. With the Vanquish line we started from zero to design a line of hearing protection for shooters by shooters. We knew that there were limitations with the overall shape and design of the ear cup and many shooters have issues when shouldering with their stock hitting their hearing protection, so we made the unique Vanquish design that minimizes this contact. We used many competitive products and were not thrilled with the sound quality, so we partnered with a factory that had produced high-end consumer electronics to be able to get the best sound quality possible. We also knew comfort was very important, so we are using premium materials to maximize comfort for shooters. 

I interviewed more experts on today’s hearing protection for shooters. Here’s what they told me.

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Expert Advice on Hearing Protection for Shooters: Interview with Howard Leight Shooting Sports

Not long ago I interviewed Josh Lantz, from Traditions Media, which works with Howard Leight Shooting Sports. I asked him about hearing protection for shooters and dispel some confusion about the technology involved, and provide a great explanation as to why enthusiasts should consider an electronic pair.

GJS—What are the major advantages of a shooter using electronic hearing protection?

JL—As opposed to passive means of hearing protection like foam earplugs or standard muffs, electronic hearing protection includes an amplification feature that allows wearers to hear and even amplify ambient sounds. The primary advantages of this feature are the ability to conduct conversation, hear range commands, or hear approaching game.

GJS—Without diving too deep into the technology, how does electronic hearing protection let conversations and range commands pass through, while blocking the dangerously loud report of a firearm? 

JL—Electronic hearing protection combines passive sound attenuation—either and over-the-ear muff or an in-ear plug—with analog or digital circuitry to compress or “shave the peaks” off dangerous sounds above a certain level. These models employ external microphones, internal speakers and a gain adjustment, allowing the user to hear surrounding sounds at normal or even louder-than-normal levels. When a dangerously loud sound (over 82dB for Howard Leight electronic earmuffs) is detected, the circuitry cuts off the amplification to the speakers inside the earcups until the noise returns to a safe level. During this period where amplification to the internal speakers is cut, the passive design of the muffs or plugs is what delivers the noise reduction, just as standard (passive) earmuffs or foam plugs do.

GJS—Is there clipping or filtering involved, and if so it the blocked noise determined by frequency or loudness?

JL—Different manufacturers employ different technologies in their electronic hearing protection devices. These may include low-pass and high-pass filters that filter certain frequencies, along with various forms of compression which automatically adjust gain.

GJS—Does that filtering begin with the microphone and is there an advantage to more than one mike?

JL—Yes and yes. Many mistakenly refer to the amplification control on their electronic hearing protection as “volume,” but the adjustment settings really control “gain.” The difference is where the sound coming through the internal speakers is being regulated…not at the internal speakers themselves, but through the external microphones. Think of gain as controlling or regulating the sound entering into the microphones. Having a microphone for each ear allows for stereo sound, which gives the wearer better situational or directional awareness.

GJS—Should shooters be concerned about battery life?

JL—Battery life in electronic hearing protection varies widely. Analog circuitry provides longer battery life (up to 350 hours in Howard Leight analog models—Impact Sport and Impact Pro) than digital circuitry (up to 150 hours in Howard Leight digital models—Impact Sport BOLT). Models with Bluetooth connectivity greatly reduce battery life. People commonly forget to turn their muffs off, so Howard Leight electronic hearing protection models come with a 4-hour auto shutoff feature to preserve battery life. All Howard Leight models also include batteries.

GJS—Getting a good cheek weld with some electronic hearing protection when shouldering a rifle is a real challenge. Does your company have models that address the problem?

JL—Howard Leight’s popular 22 NRR Impact Sport and Impact Sport BOLT electronic earmuffs employ a slim ear cup design plus recessed cutouts that provide even more stock clearance when shouldering a firearm. Shooters should always select a hearing protection product with an NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) that matches their specific firearm and shooting conditions. They should realize that Noise Reduction Rating in over-the-ear muffs is largely determined by the size/volume of the ear cups. Slim and sexy is great, but the greater the volume/size of the ear cup, generally, the greater the attenuation. Howard Leight uses patented Airflow Control technology to maximize sound attenuation while minimizing ear cup size.

GJS—Is the decibel reduction about the same in all electronic hearing protection and how much of it is determined by the seal/construction of the ear muffs?

JL—As previously mentioned, ear cup volume largely determines NRR. That said, materials, technologies and additional design factors can be employed to maximize NRR in a given ear cup size. I can’t speak for any other manufacturer, but at Howard Leight, the replaceable ear cushions that snap into their electronic muffs are integral to the earmuffs’ performance. This is something shooters should be aware of. If they replace or modify their cushions with aftermarket products, they are altering the design of the product, which may have negative impacts on performance with respect to NRR.

GJS—Do you recommend doubled up with foamies when using hearing protection, say for example when shooting a .50 BMG at a firing line with a metal roof?

JL—You’ve just described one of the loudest shooting situations possible. Shooters in this situation should employ hearing protection offering the maximum available NRR. That may mean Howard Leight Super Leight Foam earplugs which when used properly offer a 33 NRR, or Howard Leight Impact Pro electronic muffs, which deliver 30 NRR. Doubling up is also advisable in this situation, but shooters should be aware that “doubling up” with foamies under muffs does not result in a total NRR of both products. For example, wearing 33 NRR plugs under 30 NRR muffs does not result in a total NRR of 63. Realistically, one can expect to gain an additional 1-5dB of NRR, which still amounts to a significant increase in protection. Because sound intensity doubles every 3dB, if “doubling up” results in 3 more dB of protection, that still means twice the protection!

GJS—When selecting a set of electronic hearing protection, what are the most critical ratings they should look for?

JL—Definitely NRR. It’s the performance rating system used in North America (and many other parts of the world) that appears on the packaging of every hearing device sold. Price, comfort and convenience regularly impact shooters’ hearing-protection buying decisions. Too often, however, performance—the variable that matters most—is not given adequate consideration. The best thing you can do—certainly with any new shooter—is give them the highest NRR available, so they are comfortable and enjoy the sport more. The higher the number, the better the product protects. There is a huge difference between a NRR of 23 and a NRR of 29. Remember that sound doubles every 3 dB, so a product with a 29 NRR is actually 200 percent better than a product with a NRR of 23. There are also considerations to be made based on what and where someone is shooting. For example, certain firearms produce more sound than others. A high-powered rifle that produces a peak of 158 dB is going to be 600 percent louder than a .22 cal. rifle that produces 140 dB. Shooters should make hearing-protection decisions accordingly. The shooting environment matters, too. Indoor shooting produces a lot of reverberation and covered outdoor shooting can be just as bad. Sound has nowhere to go in these environments. For louder firearms or indoor or covered shooting situations, Howard Leight’s Impact PRO electronic earmuff (NRR 30) or foam earplugs (up to NRR 33) are the smart choices.

GJS—And, is there anything you’d like to add that I didn’t ask?

JL—This is the golden age for shooting sports. We have great products that employ wonderful technologies and designs to improve our experiences. But this is also the age of counterfeit and deception. Every day, products flood into the USA that are cheap imitations that often do not perform as advertised. My advice when it comes to buying electronic hearing protection is to always buy a reputable brand, whether that is Howard Leight or another top, trusted brand. My second message is to hunters. We don’t usually lose our hearing while shooting at the range, we lose it in the waterfowl blind and other hunting scenarios, because for some reason we still don’t wear hearing protection when we take to the field. There are no more excuses. Today’s electronic hearing protection choices allow us to protect our hearing while maintaining the social aspects of hunting as well as our ability to hear approaching game. 

I interviewed more experts on today’s hearing protection for shooters. Here’s what they told me.

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Electronic Hearing Protection for Shooters

The technology built into electronic hearing protection ensures firing-line safety and comfort, yet somehow manages to squeeze casual conversation and range commands through at audible and even enhanced levels. I asked the experts what kind of wizardry is at work in today’s electronic hearing protection for shooters.

“Electronic hearing protection works on ‘clipping’ the top of the loud sounds to make them less damaging,” explained Wes Harris, founder and CEO of AXIL Hearing Performance, who speaks with unusual authority on the subject [Complete interview is here.]. His company has produced cutting-edge models for the past 26 years and, along the way, he’s launched his own chain of hearing clinics fully staffed by audiologists, established others for pharmaceutical companies and developed more than 50 hearing aid systems.

“Digital technology ‘filters’ or ‘compresses’ loud sounds by actually converting physical sound waves entering your ears into digital code, which can then be changed to an entirely different sound via the program that has been programmed into the digital circuitry,” he explained when pressed on the subject. “This is the absolute best hearing protection you can buy.”

Circuitry employed by the battery-operated units isn’t necessarily created equal, either, according Will Hemeyer, Sr. Product Manager for Champion Range & Targets [Full interview is here.]. “There are two main types of technology that are being used,” he explained. “You have clipping that will cut off all electronic sound, which is typically found on the lower-end electronic hearing protection. Then you have compression technology that will compress any sound over a certain level, so the lower dB [decibel] sound still comes through. Compression technology is typically found on the higher-quality products.”

Josh Lanz is a team member at Traditions Media—marketing agency for Howard Leight Shooting Sports—whose passion for educating enthusiasts about hearing protection shows [Full interview is here.]. “Electronic hearing protection combines passive sound attenuation—either over-the-ear muff or an in-ear plug—with analog or digital circuitry to compress or ‘shave the peaks’ off dangerous sounds above a certain level,” he explained. “These models employ external microphones, internal speakers and a gain adjustment, allowing the user to hear surrounding sounds at normal or even louder-than-normal levels. When a dangerously loud sound (over 82 dB for Howard Leight electronic earmuffs) is detected, the circuitry cuts off the amplification to the speakers inside the earcups until the noise returns to a safe level.” During that lull in electronically manipulated sound, noise (range commands) still pass through the passive protection at reduced levels.  

The electronic wizardry seems straightforward, but the fact sound varies in frequency can muddy transmission in cheap units. Dr. Bill Dickinson, Doctor of Audiology, CEO and co-founder of TETRA Hearing said, “The more channels or bands of sound processing, the better a circuit can target desirable sounds and separate them from undesirable sounds. It is best to think of this in music. You can have a single singer with no instruments and you turn the words up or down in volume since it is just the words. Add in a guitar and now you have to balance between the guitar and the singer, or one will drown out the other. Now add in drums and bass guitar, and backup vocals….The more input requires more balancing of each input, so that everything is balanced. If the drums are turned up too loud, it will drown out or distort all the other inputs. All of this balancing is done with multiple channels or bands to manage the different sounds.” [Complete interview is here.]

Modern advances in electronic hearing protection for shooters  makes it obvious quality units are a healthy and wise investment, but what about rifle shooters frustrated with cheekwelds compromised by earmuffs? Today there two solutions.

“Howard Leight’s popular 22 NRR Impact Sport and Impact Sport BOLT electronic earmuffs employ a slim earcup design, plus recessed cutouts that provide even more stock clearance when shouldering a firearm,” Lanz responded.

“There is a long floating misconception that the bigger the ear pro and earmuff, the better the protection and that earmuffs give the best protection,” cautioned Harris. “The path of least resistance is where the greatest exposure to the inner ear happens and thereby damage to the cochlea/inner ear occurs. The absolute best and most critical hearing protection is to seal the ear canal off. Properly fit in-ear protection is the best there is, then if you have extreme situations, i.e. large calibers, indoor shooting ranges, etc., and you have sensitive hearing, then doubling up with earmuffs gives added, excellent protection.”  

The protection continues to improve every year. Here’s my earlier look at the subject, which includes more info on standard ear muffs and a short history on how hearing protection was first developed.

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