I started shooting at about 6 years old with couple of 22 rifles. My Dad would take us to a creek bed just outside of town and blast away till we ran out of ammo. We never wore glasses or hearing protection. I remember the sharp crack of the rifles, and it made my ears ring and that ring lasted for hours! I started shooting M-L in 1976 a still didn't wear protection for quite a few years. I do wear protection now, but it is too late. Although I got by with never damaging my eyes, my hearing has definitely suffered. I have Tinnitus and hear that ringing sound 24-7. I have hearing aids but they only turn up the volume, so I am able to understand someone's voice, but the ringing is still there. I avoid large gatherings as the noise only makes it worse and I am constantly saying HUH? Don't be a dummy, (like me), WEAR YOUR PROTECTION!!!!!!!!,,,LK