Two years ago was the first time I rifle hunted with hearing protection around my neck......intending to put them on when needed. Well, I saw a coyote moving around a bottom area and ranged him and then lined him up through my scope on my 7 mag.......and pulled the trigger. Ya, it hurt my right ear pretty badly. I don't remember having that problem when shooting elk or deer without ear protection.....maybe the adrenaline makes a difference?