Survival Lessons Tips for the survivalist, fisherman and hunter
The expediency of using this technical tool in the process of game fishing is often questioned. And many hunters from the category of beginners do not understand at all how active headphones can help for hunting, how they simultaneously dampen the sound of a shot and catch the slightest rustle.
According to the complexity of the device, configuration and purpose, headphones are divided into passive and active models. The first group of devices completely muffles all sounds (blocks them), that is, reliably protects the hearing organs from the influence of the environment. According to the principle of operation, they are no different from traditional cotton swabs (more often referred to as plugs, bananas, and so on), which completely block the auditory canal. The difference is only in the ease of use, and nothing more.
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Device of active headphones for hunting
Active headphones work differently. Their task is to protect the hearing aid from excessive exposure to the effects of the shooting (and a nearby shot sounds quite loud), and at the same time provide a sufficient background sound. That is, they allow you to hear the slightest rustles, the speech of other hunters, and so on.The principle of operation of active type headphones is that the receiving devices (microphones) mounted in their cups continuously capture all sounds and transmit them to the processor. This circuit is designed in such a way that there is a limitation on the volume level. Without going into technical nuances, it is enough to point out that active headphones not only “quench” too strong noises, but also amplify weak signals to a value acceptable to the hunter’s ear.
Moreover, in modern models of such devices, appropriate adjustment is provided. That is, a person himself sets the required level of “sound accompaniment” of hunting, based on the characteristics of his hearing.
The last link in this technological chain is the speakers, which create a sound wave that affects the eardrums. Actually, they are the transmitters of all information to the hunter from the outside. The kit also includes batteries that ensure the functioning of the electronic circuit.
The answer to the question of how active headphones simultaneously “quench” sounds and “provide” listening to the surrounding space is given. But why they are needed when hunting animals or birds is a separate conversation.
Who Should Use Active Headphones While Hunting?
It is probably more correct, before dealing with the best models, to clarify this particular issue. If you carefully study all the opinions on thematic forums, then most users of social networks consider this nothing more than a whim, a kind of tribute to fashion, love for various "bells and whistles". And yet, to whom active headphones will be good helpers?
- Hearing impaired people. This is undeniable. The main factor here is the ability of active headphones to amplify sounds.
- When hunting from an ambush, and as part of a group. For example, a large animal. Not everyone can normally endure loud, sharp pops (especially their series) that are heard just above the ear.
- The same, but at night hunting. Headphones allow you to feel the approach of prey in advance in the dark and prepare in advance for a shot, without frightening it with your rustles when manipulating a gun, choosing a comfortable position for shooting, and so on.
- If fishing is carried out from a closed camouflage structure . For example, when hunting from a special tent, a hut. In a confined space, the volume of the shot rises many times, and here active headphones come in handy.
The last three points need further explanation. By itself, a loud shot will not cause deafness; not such a critical load on the eardrums. But if hunting in such conditions is carried out constantly, then there is a risk that hearing problems will arise over time. So in such cases, active headphones are not a whim, but just a means of protecting the hunter's hearing aid.
Perhaps these are all examples of their rational use in the process of hunting game. But in other areas of human activity, sometimes they simply cannot be dispensed with. But for those who consider such devices an indispensable attribute of a “cool” fisherman, it is advisable to pay attention to the following disadvantages of their practical use.
- The electronic circuitry of active headphones is powered by miniature batteries. All elements of this type are very sensitive to a decrease in temperature. During winter hunting, in conditions of significant frost, it is not a fact that such a device will not become useless. But you will have to wear it - do not throw it away as unnecessary.
- Intensive, moreover, not always justified use of active headphones during hunting can lead to the development of ear mycosis (a kind of fungal disease). Therefore, it is hardly reasonable to acquire them only for “force”, without the need.
What to consider when choosing active headphones
- Cutoff speed. This is the name of some sound delay, which is typical for electronic circuits designed to convert signals. Ideally, it should not be, that is, the transfer of information coming from outside to the eardrums occurs instantly, on-line.
- Playback clarity. For hunting, this characteristic is no less important. Otherwise, by the rustles, sounds, in the absence of direct visibility, it is difficult to understand what is ahead - an animal, a bird (a kind of game) or a person.
- Earplug size. Too small (for their ears) let in extraneous sounds, and too large cause certain inconvenience on the hunt. Yes, and sometimes the shooter looks funny in such active headphones.
- Ease of management. There is only one criterion - the simpler, the better.
- Possibility of separate gain control for each bowl. For those who do not perceive sounds well with only one ear, such models are the best solution.
- Waterproof. First of all, it concerns the battery compartment.
- Attachment specifics. For winter hunting, it is better to purchase active headphones with a headboard. Their peculiarity is that they are held on the neck, with fixation at the back, therefore they are not an obstacle for any headgear.
- Compactness. Most of the models are folding, which is a significant plus for any hunter. But you should check before buying.
- Additional equipment (for example, mini-walkie-talkie, microphone). These headphones allow you to talk on the hunt with colleagues. It is convenient if a chain is deployed on the field, or when fishing in thickets.
A quick look at the best active hunting headphones
Prices are indicative, in relation to the Moscow region, in Russian rubles.
The selection of models is based on user feedback. The most effective are products from Sweden and the USA. For example, American EarShield headphones (model ESQM G4), the price is 22,850. But most of these devices, due to their high cost, are not in special demand among our hunters.
Among the budget options, the following models of active headphones deserve good reviews.
"SportEAR" (model XT-4)
This device is considered a bestseller, as it optimally combines high quality and reasonable cost (8,190). Eightfold sound amplification, noise reduction to a comfortable perception of 25 dB, a significant warranty period (3 years) plus the impeccable reputation of the manufacturer - all this makes such active headphones attractive not only for hunters. They are widely used by athletes, law enforcement agencies and in a number of other departments.
"Howard Impact" (Sport series)
Another no less famous and popular American model. The built-in stereo system allows you to catch the slightest rustle not only from any direction in the range of 360 0, but also immediately determine the vector, which is more than relevant when hunting. Special internal sound insulation creates additional protection for the hearing aid. Price - 6 380.
Most commercially available models of acoustic headphones made in the Russian Federation, China and Ukraine. It is pointless to list everything, but some products are worth noting. It should be taken into account that many enterprises of well-known American and European companies are located in the “Celestial Empire”, therefore it is wrong to reject a priori everything that is marked as “ made in China ”.
"Walker's" (USA)
They are considered one of the best in the middle price segment. The price of GWP headphones of the UE1001-NXT2PK series is 3,050; Game Ear of the HD ELITE series - 1 890. The latest model is better suited for hunters with hearing impairments, as it is, in fact, a universal device that can be used not only in the process of fishing, but also in the parking lot (bivouac), in everyday life.
PELTOR (Sweden)
Frequency range (Hz) - from 80 to 16,000, gain (dB) - up to 95 with automatic limitation at 75, weight of a set of headphones (g) - 318. Special design for sportsmen and hunters. Price - from 16 690.
"MSA"
Another Swedish brand. These acoustic headphones also weigh a little - 300 g, but have a lower gain limit - 25 dB, which, judging by the reviews, is preferable for most hunters. The frequency range is already - from 125 to 8,000, but the moisture protection is increased. The approximate cost of the kit is from 17,480.
Separately, it is worth dwelling on such products as active liners. Some manufacturers produce them in modifications specifically for hunting and sports. For example, the Italian company Euro Sonit Srl. The benefits of using it are more than obvious.
But the price of such products, as they say, "bites". Cheaper than 41,590 can not be found.
On sale there are many other brands of active headphones and products of these brands, which are distinguished by a lower price. The author does not advise saving on such devices, since hunting conditions are most often close to extreme. First of all, this applies to precipitation. One of the significant disadvantages of cheap headphones is poor moisture protection, or even the complete absence of it. How long will they last if fishing is carried out by running, and in autumn fogs, sudden rains are not uncommon? So they are better than their counterparts only for those who are used to focusing on the cost of goods, but in terms of reliability and durability, they are unlikely.
There is enough information, but it is up to you, the reader, to decide whether you personally need active headphones for hunting, and if so, which ones to purchase. In any case, good luck and a good shot!
Hello, I am Alexander, the mastermind behind the blog.
In terms of career and free time, I connected my life with the forest. How else, when you live in Karelia! In this blog, I am responsible for the hunting, hiking and equipment sections. Welcome to my world!
