Earplug Usage In The Field?

[marylandmarine]

Re: Earplug Usage In The Field?

I do now and agree completely that you should wear them. Being a former Marine and combat vet, I have tinnitus and I am in the process for obtaining my disability from the VA due to hearing loss while I was on active duty. Having a constant ringing in my ears is definitely bothersome and, although its not something you can really do in combat, I do it without hesitation, wear plugs for reenacting events. I treasure what little hearing I have left now! I went to a sporting goods store and got a set of inserts that are clear rubber. I clipped half of the posts that stick out, off so now they are pretty difficult to notice. I can still hear commands during engagements and keep some of my hearing for after the engagements.

[Silas]

Re: Earplug Usage In The Field?

Modern preferences and practices kill potentially useful threads. Ear protection is obviously a good idea. So is flossing one's teeth or seeing a doctor regularly. Period information like that posted by Hank four years ago in another thread about ear protection keeps threads alive : http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/...6204#post66204 Idle conjecture kill threads.

Baring some new material of true value like Hank's resurrected post, the current thread is overdue for closure.

[vamick]

Re: Earplug Usage In The Field?

My right ear has been ringing off the hook since May of 1986 and like Mr. Reid it was a .357 that did it, we were standing abreast and the blast off the cylinder got me..stupid and my fault for not wearing ear plugs, I knew better as I had been shooting for years..flash foward~~~~ BP muskets make a lower sound signature and dont seem to "bother me" ~~still ringing~~ then I join "the artillery" man it gets loud especially with 12pnd field howitsers! I usually try to wear small ones but still find myself without em sometimes...carry several!
seems I'll never learn, no scratch that "I know better" so I must be...stupid!

[Pious Jeems]

Re: Earplug Usage In The Field?

Recalled reading Cozzen's book on Stones' River and Confederates stopping to use cotton to stuff in their ears.
See # 5 for description at link provided.
http://www.murfreesboropost.com/news.php?viewStory=1630

[Coatsy]

Re: Earplug Usage In The Field?

Moderator Note: There is sound advice for protecting your hearing at reenactments. And as such, the thread is closed. Herb Coats, Moderator