Peltor Tactical 6-S Ear Defenders Review: Live-Range Tested

The Peltor Tactical 6-S Ear Defenders are a sleek and lightweight pair of electronic ear defenders designed to reduce the impact of loud noises over 85db.

The built in microphone allows you to hear low noise audible sounds while at the same time blocking sudden loud noises such as rifle firing on the range. It’s thin profile makes it suitable for wearing with a helmet or ball cap.

Are the Peltor Tactical 6-S Ear Defenders Worth It?

I’ll get right to it and say that yes, the Peltor Tactical 6-S Ear Defenders are definitely worth the price.

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I’ve been using mine for years and they’re going strong with no sign of breaking.

Specs

Weight: 220g
Batteries: 4 AAA batteries
NRR: 19dB
Colour: Grey
Low Profile: Yes

First Impression

As soon as I took them out of the box and got my first look, I liked what I saw. The Peltor 6-S has a very sleek and minimalist profile.

They felt very lightweight and solid at the same time. Because they’re able to increase and decrease the amount of sound that’s audible, they need to have batteries installed behind the ear cup.

A quick read of the instructions tells you exactly how to do this without damaging the ear cups.

Batteries

The Peltor Tactical 6-S uses 4 AAA batteries and lasts for a considerable amount of time. If you want to prolong the battery life then be sure to turn the mic knob to the ‘OFF’ position.

Also, if you’re not going to be using them for a while then I recommend removing the batteries altogether. This prevents any risk of corrosion or battery acid leaking inside your headset.

Lightweight

One of the reasons the Peltor Tactical 6-S is so popular is due to it’s extremely light weight, weighing only about 8 ounces.

If you’re going to be on the range for a while, or you’re riding in the back of a LAV, or working around running aircraft, then every ounce makes a difference and these will keep your head comfortable. 

Functionality

The Peltor 6-S has the ability to increase and decrease the audio that comes in from outside sources. In the back of the ear cups are knobs which can be turned individually to adjust the volume.

When turned all the way to the right (full volume) it doesn’t even seem like you have ear defenders on, the audio is that clear.

Scenarios

There is so many scenarios you can find yourself in that having a pair of the Peltor Tactical 6-S would come in handy. If you’re serving in the military, then it’s possible (and likely) that you’re exposed to loud noises often.

Firing weapons on the range, working in the metal shop, starting up aircraft, setting off explosive charges, the list goes on. It can also be used while hunting as it amplifies low sounds. I can actually hear better with them on than without.

The ability to wear hearing protection at all times yet still being able to hear accurately is great. No need to see a big game and either put on hearing protection quickly to save your ears or take the shot without any hearing protection at all.

With the Peltor Tactical Ear Defenders you can be wearing them at all times being able to hear everything around you and take that shot.

Low Profile/Slim Design

Another reason why the Peltor 6-S is so popular is that it’s low profile making it compatible with many tactical helmets. The thin headband reduces any discomfort you would have from the helmet being pressed on your head, and the ear cups are thin on top which prevents any contact with the helmet.

Conclusion

Myself, and so many others, love using the Peltor 6-S tactical headset for so many reasons. The ability to hear clearly and block loud noise exposure at the same time is awesome. This headset has been around for many many years and is sure to be around for many more. Of course there are other options on the market, but this headset is one of the more affordable and best bang for your buck.