REVIEW: Surefire Sonic Defender EarPro 3

If you love your hearing, protect it! In addition to large earmuffs such as those from Peltor, there are also solutions that sit directly in the ear (in-ear). We have tested for you the most likely least expensive of the professional solutions, the Surefire Sonic Defender EP 3:

The principle of operation is quite simple. The ear canal is sealed off by lamellae, so that sound can only reach the eardrum through the designated path. This reduces noise. When using the additional plastic plugs (seen sticking out in the image below), an average reduction of 24 decibels (DB) is achieved in continuous noise. According to the description, the Sonic Defender EP3 are not recommended anymore at around 120 DB (where they dampen by 35DB). But what does this mean in practice?

We at SPARTANAT have tested the EP3 at the shooting range and found them to be very good for normal shooting operations. The gunshot noises are sufficiently muted outdoors even without the additional earplugs, but it is also still possible to have conversations without yelling. In shooting ranges or when using muzzle brakes, we would recommend the additional reduction provided by the earplugs. The essential advantage over other ear protection is the fit in the ear. You can wear the EP3 comfortably for several hours without any discomfort. However, one should be careful when laughing or making faces, as if the ear moves, the Sonic Defender may shift and the noise protection is no longer guaranteed.

CONCLUSION: The Suredire Sonic Defender EP3 are an affordable and very practical hearing protection solution. Gunshot noises from handguns are adequately muted, but you can still talk to each other, although a slight reduction in volume must be accepted. In addition to the price, the comfort of wearing (make sure to choose the right size!) is a big plus, as nothing presses against the ear. We would not recommend the EP3 for concerts.

HERE is the link to the Surefire video about the Sonic Defenders.

You can buy the Surefire Sonic Defenders EarPro EP3 Size M at various shops for around EUR 20 e.g. on Amazon.