Electronic Weapons: Deadly Silence

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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.