I bought two pairs of rechargeable elvex Com 80 R fm stereo muffs about eight years ago. They were expensive at the time, but both are still ticking and the original batteries have stood the test of time and considerable abuse, certainly doing better than my various other cordless tools. I got the second pair as reconditioned from the distributor after having some minor snafu with the original pair. They were considerably less expensive than the retail pair. Service by the distributor was first rate. The distributor is Elvex Corporation; 13 Trowbridge Dr.; Bethel, CT; 06801. Customer service is 800-888-6582; phone 203 743-2488; fax 203-791-2278 and website is Elvex.com.
In the crazy expensive category are the electronic loud noise cancelling/soft sound amplifying type muffs that the military uses. If I remember correctly, they are a Peltor product, (the company that makes the Worktunes muff which did not have as good reception as my Elvex units, albeit at 1/3 the price.) I have many pairs of plain Peltor muffs of various noise reduction ratings and they are uniformly excellent, durable, rebuildable with fresh innards, comfortable and effective. I have been thinking in my dotage that amplifying earmuffs might be just the ticket for hunting the wily whitetail. These seem to start around 200 and go up from there. Don't remember if radio is an option...In either brand, it might do to inquire about reconditioned units. I made a mental note to do this the next time, but the need has not presented itself in the past 8 years. Happy shopping!
