Ear protection is one of those things we often overlook. We spend countless hours researching the perfect firearm or the best optic, light, or other accessory. But when it comes to protecting our ears, we often grab the oldest pair of earmuffs we have lying around and call it a day.

It’s easy to forget how crucial good ear protection is, especially when we’re focused on hitting targets or just enjoying some range time. I used to be guilty of this myself until I discovered the AXIL XCOR electronic earplugs. Unlike those big, bulky earmuffs, these things are light, portable, and still going strong after more than a year of use.

AXIL XCOR PRO Electronic Ear Plugs

AXIL is a company known for producing high-quality hearing protection. Before the earplugs, I used their TrackR Blue earmuffs. Those work great, but when you want something more compact, the XCOR are hard to beat.

The company focuses on providing users with advanced technology that not only protects hearing but also enhances it in situations where maintaining situational awareness is critical, like on the range or during a hunt. The AXIL XCOR electronic earplugs are one of their best products so far. They are designed to offer a more compact and convenient alternative to traditional hearing protection.

The XCOR ear plugs operate by electronically reducing harmful noise while amplifying low-level sounds, allowing you to hear conversations, commands, or ambient sounds. So basically, they block loud noises and help you hear the quitter noises.

This makes them ideal for use in noisy environments where you still need to stay aware of what’s happening around you. They are especially useful for firearms training or competition shooting, where rapid and clear communication is essential.

Charging these earplugs is straightforward. They come with a small, portable charging case that doubles as a storage container. The case can fully charge the earplugs several times before needing to be recharged itself. This makes the XCOR not only easy to use but also incredibly portable. You can easily toss the case in your range bag, glove box, or even your pocket, and you’ll have reliable ear protection whenever you need it.

AXIL XCOR PRO Specs:

• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 29 dB
• Battery Life: 8-12 hours per charge
• Charging Time: 2 hours
• Portable Charging Case: Yes
• Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes, 5.2
• Weight: 1.2 oz (earplugs only)
• Compact and Portable Design

How do they perform one year later?

One of the challenges when buying any new product is the lack of long-term reviews. Sure, a product might be great out of the box, but how does it hold up over time? Well, after more than a year with my AXIL XCOR PRO electronic earplugs, I can confidently say they’ve been worth every penny.

I’ve used them for a variety of tasks, from work training exercises to casual range sessions, and they’ve held up incredibly well.

These earplugs have become my go-to for range days, but they’ve also found a place in my routine outside of shooting. One unexpected benefit has been using them while mowing my lawn. Because they are connected to my phone, I can hear when I’m getting texts or phone calls, and I can even stream music if I want to.

It’s amazing how effective they are at blocking out loud sounds. I can even listen to music when I’m mowing or at the range and still hear everyone else around me.

They’re still working just as well as they did on day one. The audio clarity is fantastic, the noise reduction is reliable, and the portability makes them a must-have for anyone who wants a good pair of Bluetooth earplugs. I’ve even used them with my power tools when working out in the shop.

How do they compare to traditional earmuffs?

When it comes to ear protection, most people automatically think of traditional earmuffs. They’re effective, sure, but they come with their own set of challenges. For starters, earmuffs are often bulky, which can be uncomfortable, especially when worn for long periods.

After about an hour or so, I usually find that they start to hurt my head. The pressure from the headband and the weight of the earmuffs can become distracting, taking away from the shooting experience.

With the AXIL XCOR earplugs, those issues simply don’t exist. They don’t rest on your head, so there’s no pressure or discomfort after hours of use. Whether I’m wearing them for a short training session or a full day at the range, they stay comfortable the entire time.

Plus, I don’t have to worry about them interfering with a ball cap or beanie, which is a big deal for me, especially in the winter. Anyone who has tried wearing earmuffs and a beanie at the same time knows how awkward and uncomfortable it can be.

While traditional earmuffs have their place, especially in industrial or highly noisy environments, the XCOR PRO earplugs are a more versatile and convenient option for those who don’t want a bulky set on their heads. They offer the same level of hearing protection but in a far more compact and comfortable package.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still relying on that old pair of earmuffs you’ve had for years, it might be time to upgrade. I reviewed them a while after I started wearing them, and they were great. But it’s nice to find a product that you still like after some time has gone by.

I’ve tried other products that appeared to be good, but after some time, I found they broke or did not work as well.

These earplugs, though, have performed well. They offer everything you need in terms of noise reduction, but they do it in a package that’s light, comfortable, and incredibly portable. After a year of regular use, I can say they’ve held up well and continue to perform just as reliably as the day I got them.

Whether you’re hitting the range for a quick session or spending the entire day in a noisy environment, the XCOR PRO earplugs are an excellent investment. Use them for shooting, mowing, working in the shop, tuning out the spouse, or whatever you need ear protection for. These have proven to be a product that will hold up great over time.