Impact Sport Electronic Earmuff

The Howard Leight Impact Sport has been the default recommendation in shooting sports for over a decade, and for good reason. At about $85 for common current retail SKUs, it delivers electronic hearing protection with sound amplification, directional microphones, and a slim enough profile to shoulder a rifle without interference.

The two external microphones amplify ambient sound to a safe 82 dB, letting you hear range commands and conversation clearly. Loud impulse noise is electronically managed while speech and environmental sound remain audible. An AUX input lets you connect a phone for music or comms, and two AAA batteries deliver 350 hours of use with automatic shutoff to prevent drain.

The low-profile cup design clears most rifle stocks, though shooters with cheek risers or precision stocks may find interference on the support side. Sound quality is adequate but noticeably below the Peltor Sport Tactical 500 or Walker's XCEL 500BT. For the price, nothing else comes close.