NRR

NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) is a value indicating the level of noise attenuation provided by hearing protection such as protective earmuffs or earplugs. It expresses how many decibels (dB) of noise are reduced before reaching the user’s ear. NRR is therefore a standardized rating of noise attenuation for hearing protection. It indicates how many decibels the noise is reduced by and is a key parameter for hearing protection during shooting. In shooting and tactical headsets, NRR represents the passive protection, which is complemented by electronics that amplify ambient sounds and instantly suppress gunshots. An excellent choice for both the shooting range and airsoft are tactical headsets from EARMOR, which you can also find in our e-shop.

EARMOR M32H tactical headset

How does NRR work in practice?

The NRR value is a laboratory-measured figure that defines the maximum theoretical noise attenuation. In real-world use, the actual attenuation is usually slightly lower because it depends on:

proper fit of the headset,
head and ear shape,
seal of the ear cups or earplugs,
environmental conditions.

Typical NRR values

NRR 18–20 dB – basic protection, suitable for airsoft, CQB, and training.
NRR 22–24 dB – mid-level protection, common for shooting headsets.
NRR 26–30 dB – high protection for noisy environments.
NRR 30+ dB – maximum attenuation (often earplugs or combined protection).

NRR in electronic shooting headsets

In electronic (active) headsets, NRR indicates the passive noise attenuation—that is, the protection provided by the ear cup construction itself. The electronics:

amplify quiet sounds (speech, footsteps),
instantly suppress impulse noise (gunshots),
do not change the NRR value itself.

Therefore, a higher NRR = better hearing protection, regardless of whether the headset is active or passive.

NRR vs. real gunshot noise

A gunshot from a real firearm can reach 140–170 dB. Even a high NRR will not completely eliminate the noise, but it will:

reduce the noise peak to a safer level,
protect hearing from permanent damage,
increase comfort during prolonged shooting.

NRR in airsoft

In airsoft, NRR is not critical because of gunshots, but it:

protects hearing from pyrotechnics,
reduces noise in CQB arenas,
increases comfort and realism of the loadout,
larger headsets also protect the ears and surrounding area from BB hits.