Mini Review - Walker Xcel 100 hearing protection

[Scott B.]

I shoot a lot, both indoor and outdoor. An outdoor class can run 2 to 4 hrs so ear comfort / hearing protection is key. I've used Howard Leight Impact Sports (Honeywell) for the last 4 years or so. I did upgrade the gel cushions last year which helped tremendously. I also have some PELTOR Tactical Earplug TEP-100 (3M) that I use from time to time.

About a month ago I decided to try Walker's new Xcel 100 offering. I opted not to get the Bluetooth 500BT version. When I'm on the range, if I absolutely have to interact w/ my cell phone I'll step off the line.

The Xcel head set has 4 omni-directional mics, 2 on each side, and the sound quality is more 'live' than any other hearing protection I've tried. I was really pleasantly surprised by the difference. They are comfortable. Controls are intuitive. They run on 2 AAAs and have an auto-shutoff feature you change from 2/4/6 hours. Only down check I could give might be a lack of color choice and some useless rubber bumpers on the lower cup that I've already lost one of and will never miss.

They are my new go-to hearing protection. The old Howard Leight's have been moved to the spare gear shelf. The Peltor in-ears are small enough that they'll stay in my range bag.

Specs:

https://www.walkersgameear.com/xcel-100 ... 68a22-553f

$83.57 on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Walkers-Digital- ... B07C62NQFP

[Jusme]

I have the Walker Razors, and I really like them, the only thing is they do not have the omni directional mics, so, sound originating in front may sound like it's coming from behind.

[AndyC]

I moved to Walker Razor a few years ago as well, after finding that the Howard Leight Impact Sports were too small for my ears (and my ears ain't that big, neither) and causing actual discomfort. I like the Walker gear a lot.

[Lynyrd]

I wear hearing aids and have to take them out for hunting. Do you think this would be acceptable for hunting? Do they work will enough to hear squirrels and deer?