Question 1

Do you have to use the caps for the noise reduction

Accepted Answer

I don't use them too often. I leave them open so when I'm with my buddies i can hear them speak.

Question 2

What's the nrr when the caps are open? i'm looking for something i can wear for home defense. i want protection but also need to hear my attacker

Accepted Answer

I'm appalled by these comments, both in terms of the snarky tone and also the inaccuracy.  To the OP: I suggest you not pay these comments any attention.   If the individuals commenting were well-versed in their defensive training, they would know that no two situations are ever alike.   Moreover, many of the commenters apparently have not considered that some people actually sleep with earplugs in (due to street noise, snoring partner, etc.), or might have multiple layers in their defense plan (e.g., partner #1 investigates the noise, partner #2 slips on the ear pro and provides support).   Or maybe there's a long driveway with a security system that allows time to assess and react.   The point is that everyone needs to decide what's appropriate for their own individual situation.   If people are representing otherwise, it's simply posturing and unwarranted assumption.

To some of the people commenting:  If you really care about 2A, and you think this is someone that needs guidance, maybe try to actually help them as opposed to flaming?   The OP is asking a question about noise reduction, not for your brilliant, unsolicited advice about their home defense plan--and when you go on a tangent with a stupid, snarky, one-size-fits-all answer, it only demonstrates your ignorance of the subject.   Protecting one's hearing should probably not be the primary consideration, but it *is* something to consider.   In fact, one should consider everything.

In response to your question, I use the EP4s, and generally have no trouble hearing with the plugs in.   The reason for this (another really basic issue that seems to have been overlooked) is that these only attenuate certain frequencies, while letting others through.   The only way to know is to try them for yourself and see whether they work for you.

And one more thing--I have no idea of your experience level, but you should be highly skeptical of any advice you receive on the internet, especially when it's unsolicited.   I am legitimately embarrassed by some of the comments here.

Question 3

How do you know what size to get?

Accepted Answer

Easiest way is to try a pair of ear bud headphones from Walmart or Target (preferably Skullcandy Brand Ear Buds because they come with different size ear plugs; Skullcandy Ear Buds (plugs) allow you to listen to music and make phone calls) (buy and return if necessary; price is about $15 per set; Skullcandy Brand Ear Buds/Headphones are awesome and have amazing sound quality for the price you pay). 
Bottom Line: Ear plug should fit well when bulb of plug is inserted into ear canal (like a cork on a wine bottle). They shouldn't cause any pain/discomfort. They shouldn't fall out if you vigorously shake your head or run laps at a track (exercising). 
For several years, I wore the outside the ear canal and always had to push them end over and over again because they kept falling out of my ear. One day, at the mall, a Bose Speaker salesman showed me the correct way to wear ear buds. The way I described is how you are supposed to wear them. 
I'm a man,  6' 1" tall, weigh 255 lbs and wear a size 13 double wide boot. My ear bud (plug) size is a small. Don't listen to people who say small is for children and medium/large is for an adult. Medium size ear plugs won't properly fit in my ear drums. 
Best of luck to everyone. 
P.S. - My mother used to wear headphones like these (as a homemaker watching me and my four brothers) and it would reduce her anxiety attacks and allow her to take better naps during the day (hint, hint).

Question 4

I have small ear channels, wich size is for me..

Accepted Answer

The size refers to the outer part - not the part that fits into the ear canal.

SureFire EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra filtered Earplugs w/ Comply Canal Tips, reusable

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