Champion Target Earmuffs Review

Was the Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs Worth It?

The Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs are a staple in the shooting and tactical gear world, promising reliable hearing protection in a simple, affordable package. Made by Champion Traps and Targets, these earmuffs boast a 27 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) and an over-the-head design, aiming to provide comfort and effectiveness during long shooting sessions. My experience spans over a decade in outdoor and tactical fields, from competitive shooting to wilderness survival, exposing me to a wide array of hearing protection devices. I was seeking a no-nonsense, budget-friendly solution for range days and instructing new shooters.

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how important reliable hearing protection is in preserving auditory health. Exposure to loud noises can cause irreversible damage, affecting everything from communication to situational awareness. Thus, a quality pair of earmuffs are not a luxury, but a necessity for anyone who spends time around firearms, heavy machinery, or other noisy environments.

Upon receiving the Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs, my initial impression was of a straightforward, no-frills design. The black color is practical, and the overall construction felt solid enough for the price point. They were lightweight, which is a definite plus for extended use.

I have previously used Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs and Peltor Sport Tactical 100 Electronic Earmuffs. I ultimately chose the Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs for their simplicity and affordability, prioritizing basic protection over advanced features like electronic sound amplification for instructing new shooters. The Howard Leight’s are great, but I wanted a passive option for handing out to folks on the range, without worrying about batteries or electronics failure. The Peltor’s are top-notch, but overkill (and overpriced) for casual use.

My first impression was that they seemed adequate, but a bit basic. There was no wow-factor, but they seemed durable enough for their intended purpose. The proof, however, would be in the pudding – how well would they perform on the range?

Real-World Testing: Putting Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs primarily at an outdoor shooting range, during both pistol and rifle practice sessions. The temperature ranged from a comfortable 70°F to a slightly more challenging 90°F. I also used them briefly during some light woodworking, creating some target stands, to gauge their versatility.

The Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs performed adequately. They significantly dampened the sound of gunfire, reducing the sharp crack to a manageable level. It allowed me to focus on shooting without wincing at every shot.

Using the earmuffs was fairly intuitive, requiring no real adjustment period. They slipped comfortably over my ears and provided a snug fit. They did get a little warm after prolonged use in the 90°F heat, but that’s expected with most over-ear protection.

The only issue I encountered was a slight pressure build-up after wearing them for more than two hours continuously. This was easily remedied by taking a short break. This is fairly common with non-electronic muffs, so I expected it.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs have held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the headband or earcups. The padding has retained its shape and cushioning.

The durability is adequate for the price point. They haven’t been abused, but have survived being tossed in a range bag repeatedly. The plastic construction seems sturdy enough to withstand normal use.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is sufficient to keep them clean. The simplicity is appreciated.

Compared to my higher-end electronic earmuffs, the Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs offer less versatility but reliable, consistent protection. They don’t have the fancy features, but they get the job done without fuss. They are a solid, dependable option for basic hearing protection needs.

Breaking Down the Features of Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Champion Traps and Targets
• Color: Black
• NRR: 27 dB
• Quantity: 1 Pair
• Additional Features: Over the Head

The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 27 dB is a key specification, indicating the level of noise attenuation the earmuffs provide. This is suitable for most shooting activities, providing a safe level of protection against loud gunfire. The over-the-head design is straightforward and easy to use, offering consistent protection without requiring complex adjustments.

Performance & Functionality

The Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs perform their primary function – hearing protection – effectively. They significantly reduce the impact of loud noises, making shooting more comfortable and preventing potential hearing damage. Their effectiveness is well-suited for shooting ranges, construction sites, or any environment with high noise levels.

While they lack advanced features like electronic sound amplification, their simplicity is a strength. There are no batteries to worry about, no buttons to push, and no complicated settings. You put them on, and they work.

These earmuffs meet expectations for basic hearing protection. They are not the most comfortable or feature-rich option, but they are reliable and effective for their intended purpose. They offer a good balance between cost and performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price. The materials are basic, but the earmuffs feel reasonably sturdy. The earcups are padded and fit comfortably over the ears.

The design is simple and user-friendly. There is no learning curve – anyone can use them immediately. The adjustable headband ensures a snug fit for various head sizes.

Durability & Maintenance

The Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs are reasonably durable, with no major issues after several months of use. They are made from basic materials, so they may not withstand extreme abuse. However, they should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep them clean. The ease of maintenance is a definite plus for those who value practicality.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs do not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. Their strength lies in their simplicity and straightforward functionality.

The earmuffs are not really designed for customization. Their purpose is basic hearing protection, and they fulfill that role without the need for added features or accessories.

Pros and Cons of Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs

Who Should Buy Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs?

The Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs are perfect for:

• Casual shooters who need reliable and affordable hearing protection.
• Individuals looking for a simple, no-nonsense solution for noisy environments.
• Gun range instructors who need to provide basic hearing protection to students.

Who should skip this product?

• Competitive shooters who need advanced features like electronic sound amplification.
• Those who require maximum comfort for all-day use in extreme conditions.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• None. These earmuffs are designed to be a standalone solution.

Conclusion on Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs

The Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs are a solid choice for anyone seeking basic, reliable hearing protection at an affordable price. Champion Traps and Targets delivers a functional and straightforward product that gets the job done without any unnecessary bells and whistles. While they may not be the most comfortable or feature-rich option on the market, their simplicity, effectiveness, and low cost make them a compelling value proposition.

At a price of $23.29, the value is definitely justified. They offer a practical and effective solution for protecting your hearing in noisy environments.

I would definitely recommend the Champion Target Champion Black Earmuffs to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, no-nonsense hearing protection solution. Don’t compromise your hearing – grab a pair of these earmuffs and stay protected on the range.