Solide plug with foam...it's my preference - SureFire Sonic Defender Ultra Max Full Block Foam - Tipped Earplugs

After using almost the entire surefire sonic defender line for three years, I finally think I can make an honest review.

Now granted, ear plug comfort varies from person to person, and is all about the individual. It's like buying gloves or shoes, but more important since you might cause your ear to be sore or poke your ear drum. Worse if you don't wear them properly because of a bad fit, then they do nothing to protect you.

Just as a personal preference I like using the "solid slug" or solid core plugs like the EP 5 or EP 10. I find it easier to clean and I prefer having more ear protection, then having the the convenience of being able to hear conversations just slightly better. Often times when using the EP Sonic defenders with the noise filter brakes, I often "close the hatch" on them anyway to better protect me when shooting or working near generators.

However, the reason why I stopped buying the other EP 3,EP 4 and EP 7 Sonic defenders; is that after a day of use and hanging them up, the noise filter brakes pop out and land on the floor and I've lost some. Don't have to worry about that with the EP 5 and EP 10.

I slightly favor the EP 10 now since the foam does a better job of sealing up your ear hole, while during an 8 hour shift, the EP 5 can "walk out" a little bit and need to be pushed in every couple hours or so. Also every week or so it will get dirty and stiff and need to be cleaned with hot water...soap only if you plan on multiple people using the same pair.

Just remember to squish the foam on the EP 10 before inserting into your ear. Just forcing it in will give a less than optimal seal or worse, the internal plastic shank may poke your ear drum.

I know this might be a lot to consider when buying something as simple as an ear plug, but I think it's worth it to shop around and choose the best ear plug that works for you. I want an ear plug that's not s one time use disposable and do the job on a daily basis and for multiple tasks, and not just the weekend shooting trip.

the Surefire EP 10 sonic Defender dose it for me. It's easy to clean because it doesn't have a tiny hole for the filter brake to clean out or worry about the insert falling out, and the foam tip buds last a long time, but there are replacement buds should you want to refresh your personal set every year or switch out for multiple people using them for hygiene reasons.