August 29, 2007:
While
American combat vehicle crews appreciate the availability of the new noise
canceling headsets (which reduce loud noises, including explosions), they have
found some disadvantages as well. When their vehicle is hit, and they have to exit
in a hurry, they must also take off the Peltor (the manufacturer) headset right
away. Otherwise they find they cannot hear the sounds of battle, and vital
information ("Duck!") someone may be shouting at them. Another potential
problem is aiming a rifle while wearing the bulky Peltor. You can do it, if you
practice a bit. Some troops get their Peltor and forget about the rifle
re-training thing, or the need to lose the Peltor when you exit the vehicle
into the middle of a fire-fight.