Hearing protection

[Square Wheels]

I had these for my 9mm, they work just fine. 

Clearly, the AR15 is a LOT louder, especially inside.  I've only shot it twice, and while I like the gun, it is way too loud.

Today I added these under the above, they didn't help.

I know a suppressor would help, but that's adding a lot of money.  Plus, I tried one gun at my range that was suppressed, and it blew back a lot of gas in my face, I hated it.  They said it was partly related to the suppressor and partly the gun.

I plan to shoot it outside in a few weeks.

Are there better hearing protection options?

Thanks

[FrankD]

They aint cheap but I love my sordin pro-x neckband muffs.  Hearing protection is one of those things that I feel if you skimp out on could cost you permanent damage in the long run.  have also had decent luck doubling up with howard leight impact sports with foam plugs underneath.

[Jeb48]

I double up when I am shooting next to someone with a very loud caliber but never tried it inside, usually there is a barrier between and never felt the need.  The non active over the ear protection have a better DB rating and if you check there are a few  in ear plugs with a better rating.  You would be surprised how much an extra 3-6 db will help.

Edited 2 hours ago by Jeb48

[TN_Raven]

If shooting indoors, I double up with Ear Buddy foam plugs and Axil Trakr Electronic over the ear. I have used that combo with my M14 Scout in .308 and it seems sufficient. 
That being said, I usually shoot that rifle outdoors since the indoor range I use only goes out to 50 yards. So mostly shooting 9mm and .357 mag/.38 spl indoors.

The key with the foam plugs is to make sure they are fully compressed before inserting them well into the ear canal.