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Tactical Headsets | Hearing Protection Meets Hands-Free Comms

A tactical headset protects your hearing while letting you stay in comms with your team. Unlike regular headphones military teams once relied on, these use built-in mics to block gunfire instantly while still letting quiet sounds like voices through. Used by military, law enforcement, and competitive shooters, tactical headphones like these let you hear a whispered command and a door breach in the same second, without ever pulling off your ear protection.

two members of armed forces wearing tactical helmets with peltor comtac viii headsets are positioned outdoors, with one using binoculars and the other holding a rifle

Tactical Headset Technology | NRR, Hear-Through & Downlead Types

Not every combat headset works the same way. Most run on hear-through tech, amplifying quiet sound while cutting loud noise automatically. NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) tells you how many decibels a tac headset blocks, usually 20 to 24 dB. Downleads connect a headset tactical setup to a radio through a PTT adapter, either fixed in place or connectorized so you can swap cables as needed.

ComTac, Ops-Core AMP & Sordin | Comparing the Big Three Brands

Peltor ComTac (3M) | The Military Standard

Peltor ComTac is the most trusted military tactical headset name, still standard issue across U.S. branches. It uses compression instead of a hard cutoff, so gunfire gets blocked while voices stay clear. NIB lets teams run peer-to-peer comms without a radio. Rated IP68 for water and dust, it's a proven tactical communications headset for field use.

Ops-Core AMP | The Modular Tactical Helmet Headset

The Ops-Core AMP is a modular tactical helmet headset with 3D Hear-Through Technology, helping wearers pinpoint where a sound comes from. It switches between headband and helmet-rail mounting easily. NRR runs 22 dB, up to 34 dB with NFMI earplugs. USSOCOM selected it for the CASL program, making it a combat-proven military comms headset.

Sordin | Comfort-Focused Military Headphones

Sordin stands out for natural-sounding amplification, boosting quiet sounds up to 4x while compressing loud noise. These military headphones transmit conversation with less distortion than lower-tier options. Left-handed shooters can order the mic pre-installed on the right side. Strong waterproofing and a 5-year electronics guarantee make Sordin a favorite for all-day wear.

Comparison of Peltor ComTac VIII, Sordin Supreme T2, and Ops-Core AMP tactical headsets

Over-Ear vs. In-Ear | Choosing the Right Comms System

A muff-style tactical comms headset gives the strongest seal and the most room for batteries and controls, but adds bulk under a helmet. An in-ear system trades some raw blocking power for a lighter, near-invisible profile, better suited for covert work or all-day patrol. A military helmet headset with a full muff usually wins on the range, while in-ear setups win for comfort and discretion.

Ops-Core AMP Connectorized Headset - 3D Hear-Through for Situational Awareness

Tactical Headset Setups | Headsets, PTTs & Mounts on Atomic Defense

Finding a great tactical headset for sale is just the first step. Our setup breakdown below (Headset + PTT + Mount) makes it easy to build a complete tactical comms headset rig from scratch even as a begginer.

  • The Newest Generation: The Peltor ComTac VIII is the current top-tier military tactical headset, built as a direct replacement for the ComTac V with a lower-profile headband, updated earcups, and Soundscape audio processing for sharper speech clarity. It's open to all buyers, not restricted to military or LE.
  • The Restricted-Use Option: For verified military and police buyers, the Peltor ComTac VII is the newest restricted-tier model, adding TMAS (Tactical Modular Audio System) for dual hearing protection and wireless NFMI connectivity to a system control unit.
  • The Proven Workhorse: The Peltor ComTac VI remains a strong pick for buyers who want NIB peer-to-peer comms and MAP audio profiles at a lower cost than the newer generations, and it still ships with ARC adapters and gel ear seals included.
  • Helmet Mounting Sets: Turning any tactical helmet headset into a mounted rig just takes the right hardware. Browse the Mounts & Adapters collection for ARC rail kits, or the 3M Peltor ARC Rail Helmet Adapter for ambidextrous quick-transition mounting. Pair it with a helmet from the Helmets collection, and don't skip the 3M Peltor Gel Ear Cups for a better seal during long wear.
  • Radio & PTT Setups: A tactical communications headset is only half a system until it's wired to a radio. The Peltor FL7000 is a dual-radio PTT with ATAK data integration, while the Ops-Core Single Band and Dual Band U94 PTTs let you run one or two radios off a single downlead. Check the full Push-to-Talk collection and Downleads collection to match cables to your radio.
  • Low-Profile & In-Ear Options: For a lighter military headset for covert or all-day wear, the Silynx Clarus XPR trades the muff for an in-ear design, paired with the Clarus Speaker Mic and Clarus BT Adapter.

Quick Comparison: ComTac VI vs. VII vs. VIII

ComTac VI

ComTac VII

ComTac VIII

Availability

Open to all buyers

Military & LE only (verification required)

Open to all buyers

Key Feature

Natural Interactive Behavior “NIB “peer-to-peer comms, MAP profiles

Tactical Modular Audio System “TMAS” dual protection, wireless NFMI to SCU

Soundscape audio processing, low-profile headband

Best For

Budget-conscious buyers who still want NIB

Verified operators needing dual hearing protection

Buyers wanting the newest civilian-available tech

Included

Accessory Rail Connector “ARC” adapters, gel ear seals

Wireless SCU connectivity (SCU-300 sold separately)

4-pin single-COMM or 5-pin dual-COMM downlead options

Tactical Headsets | Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between electronic and passive hearing protection?

Electronic headsets amplify quiet sounds while blocking loud ones. Passive earmuffs just block sound with no amplification.

Can I use a tactical headset without a radio?

Yes. Every headset here works as standalone hearing protection even without a PTT or downlead attached.

Do combat headphones work under a helmet?

Yes, most support ARC rail mounting. Check that both your headset and helmet use the same rail system.

How much noise reduction should I expect?

Most headsets here sit around 20 to 24 dB NRR, climbing higher when paired with NFMI earplugs.

Where to Buy the Best Tactical Headsets?

If you are wondering where to buy top-tier, reliable tactical equipment, look no further than Atomic Defense. We carry industry-leading manufacturers, so you know you are getting field-tested, mission-ready gear. Whether you are looking for entry-level models or the absolute best night vision monocular on the market, our store offers competitive pricing, expert support, and fast shipping. Explore our collection to find your perfect match today.

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Tactical Headsets | Electronic Hearing Protection & Comms

Tactical Headsets | Electronic Hearing Protection & Comms (29 Results)

  • Peltor ComTac V for sale
    ComTacVCoverPhoto

    Peltor ComTac V: All Colors & Models Available

    4.9 (71)
    $699.00
    $699.00 - $1,199.00
    $699.00
    From $699.00
    $699.00 - $1,199.00
    $699.00

    This model has been discontinued. (Purchasing this product (If the variant you selected is no longer in stock) will now upgrade you for FREE to: 3...

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  • 3M Peltor SwatTac Listing for SwatTac on Atomic Defense
    ComTacVI-KIT-1-V3
    Save up to $369.00 Save $0.00

    Peltor ComTac VI - NIB w/ All Colors & Models - Gel Earcups & ARC Mounts Included

    4.9 (71)
    $866.00 - $1,658.00
    $866.00 - $1,658.00
    $866.00
    From $749.00
    $749.00 - $1,289.00
    $749.00

    Peltor ComTac VI: The Best NIB Comms. Backed by the Atomic Warranty. Comes with Gel Ear Cups, ARC Rail Adapters for helmets, batteries, and mo...

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  • two members of armed forces wearing tactical helmets with peltor comtac viii headsets are positioned outdoors, with one using binoculars and the other holding a rifle
    Save up to $269.05 Save $0.00

    3M Peltor ComTac VIII - Hearing Protection w/ Snag-Free Ambidextrous Mic & MAP Soundscape - All Models Available

    5.0 (7)
    $699.00 - $1,199.00
    $699.00 - $1,199.00
    $699.00
    From $544.95
    $544.95 - $939.95
    $544.95

    3M Peltor ComTac VIII: Military Headset for Clear Radio Comms and Instant Gunfire Protection The 3M Peltor ComTac VIII headset provides field-prov...

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  • Ops-Core-AMP-Headset-Connectorized
    Save up to $605.00 Save $0.00

    Ops-Core AMP Connectorized Headset - 3D Hear-Through for Situational Awareness

    4.9 (15)
    $1,554.95 - $2,154.95
    $1,554.95 - $2,154.95
    $1,554.95
    From $1,395.00
    $1,395.00 - $1,574.90
    $1,395.00

    Ops-Core AMP Connectorized | 3D Hearing for Total Situational Awareness The Ops-Core AMP headset helps you hear important sounds and talk to your ...

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  • Save $25.95 Save $0.00

    NFMI Earplugs by Ops-Core - Case & All Tip Sizes Included - Comfortable Hearing Protection

    5.0 (11)
    $234.95
    $234.95 - $234.95
    $234.95
    $209.00
    $209.00 - $209.00
    $209.00

    Get Crystal Clear Communication With NFMI Earplugs By Ops-Core The Ops-Core Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) Earplugs offer enhanced noise r...

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  • 3M-PELTOR-ComTac-VII-MT14H41A-300NA-CY-1
    Save $33.00 Save $0.00

    3M Peltor ComTac VII - New Generation w/ TMAS (MILITARY & POLICE ONLY)

    5.0 (7)
    $1,339.00
    $1,339.00 - $1,339.00
    $1,339.00
    $1,306.00
    $1,306.00 - $1,306.00
    $1,306.00

    COMPLETE CHECKOUT WITH YOUR DEPARTMENT EMAIL ADDRESS OR PROVIDE ID DOCUMENTS VIA EMAIL.  ComTac VII is only available for the U.S. Military and Po...

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  • Peltor ComTac III
    3M Peltor ComTac III Tactical Advanced Combat Headset Media 1 of 19
    Save up to $91.00 Save $0.00

    3M Peltor ComTac III Tactical Advanced Combat Headset

    4.9 (71)
    $1,100.00 - $1,200.00
    $1,100.00 - $1,200.00
    $1,100.00
    From $1,099.00
    $1,099.00 - $1,109.00
    $1,099.00

    This model has been discontinued. (Purchasing this model will now purchase: ComTac V: Which can be purchased by clicking here) Why you need the Pel...

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  • Save $13.94 Save $0.00

    3M Peltor TEP-300 - In-Ear - NFMI Wireless Communication

    $849.00
    $849.00 - $849.00
    $849.00
    $835.06
    $835.06 - $835.06
    $835.06

    Peltor TEP-300 is only available for the U.S. Military and Police. COMPLETE CHECKOUT WITH YOUR DEPARTMENT EMAIL ADDRESS OR PROVIDE ID DOCUMENTS VIA...

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  • 3m-peltor-scu-300-coyote-brown-on-metal-screen
    3m-peltor-scu-300-gray-and-coyote-brown

    3M Peltor SCU-300 & RCU-300 - TMAS Bundle

    5.0 (1)
    $1,489.99
    $1,489.99 - $1,489.99
    $1,489.99
    From $1,491.38
    $1,491.38 - $1,495.00
    $1,491.38

    3M Peltor SCU-300 | The Heart of the Tactical Modular Audio System (TMAS) The 3M Peltor SCU-300 is a high-quality system that combines tactical c...

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  • Save $26.80 Save $0.00

    3M PELTOR Skull Screw - Replacements Tips

    $60.00
    $60.00 - $60.00
    $60.00
    $33.20
    $33.20 - $33.20
    $33.20

    3M™ PELTOR™ Skull Screw™ Communication Tip Replacements: Easy-to-Fit, High-Protection Eartips for Noisy Environments 3M™ PELTOR™ Skull Screws™ are...

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  • 994027_-_3M_TM__PELTOR_TM__TEP-100_Tactical_Earplugs
    Save up to $0.05 Save $0.00

    Peltor TEP-100 - Peltor Hearing Protection Tactical Earbuds

    5.0 (2)
    $577.00 - $610.00
    $577.00 - $610.00
    $577.00
    From $579.95
    $579.95 - $609.95
    $579.95

    Shield Your Ears from Potential Damage with TEP-100s - Superior hearing protection with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 23 dB - Level-Dependent e...

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  • Peltor TEP 200
    _3M__PELTOR__Tactical_Earplug__TEP-200
    Save up to $10.05 Save $0.00

    3M Peltor TEP-200 - Ear Protection and Bluetooth Capability w/ 3M Skull Screws

    $690.00 - $730.00
    $690.00 - $730.00
    $690.00
    From $689.95
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    $689.95

    Prevent Hearing Damage with 3M Peltor TEP-200 • Get superior hearing protection with 3M PELTOR Tactical Earplugs; the best ear protection for sho...

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  • EP7-BK-MPR
    Save $2.60 Save $0.00

    Surefire EarPro Sonic Defender - Ear Plug - Medium - Black

    $26.00
    $26.00 - $26.00
    $26.00
    $23.40
    $23.40 - $23.40
    $23.40

    Hearing protection should never be overlooked. EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra earplugs safeguard your hearing from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) wit...

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  • EP10-BK-MPR
    Save $2.60 Save $0.00

    Surefire Sonic Defender Ultra Max Ear Plugs - Medium - Black - 1 Pair

    $26.00
    $26.00 - $26.00
    $26.00
    $23.40
    $23.40 - $23.40
    $23.40

    Want the most effective and most comfortable in-ear hearing protection available? EP10 Sonic Defenders Ultra Max earplugs answer the call, providin...

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  • EP4-BK-MPR
    Save $2.14 Save $0.00

    Surefire EarPro Sonic Defender Plus - Ear Plug - Medium - Black

    $21.49
    $21.49 - $21.49
    $21.49
    $19.35
    $19.35 - $19.35
    $19.35

    Your hearing health should never be neglected. SureFire EP4 Sonic Defender Plus will protect your hearing from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) wi...

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  • Save $101.00 Save $0.00

    Clarus XPR Smart Tactical Headset System

    $1,000.00
    $1,000.00 - $1,000.00
    $1,000.00
    $899.00
    $899.00 - $899.00
    $899.00

    Industry's smallest and lightest tactical headset system. In-ear microphone with Silynx hear-thru technology and sound localization. Fixed cable (F...

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  • ACPROTXSND
    Backordered

    ATN Corp X-Sound Electronic Ear Muffs | Hearing Protection | Bluetooth | Green

    $119.00
    $119.00 - $119.00
    $119.00
    $119.00
    $119.00 - $119.00
    $119.00

    Compact, fold-up design with low-profile ear cups. Comfortable headband features a durable metal frame. Low-profile design with a cut-out allows fu...

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  • X30I-BLAZE
    X30I-BLACK
    Save $13.00 Save $0.00

    AXIL X30i | Earplugs | Black | Includes (3) Silicon Tips | (2) Foam Tips and Pocket Carry Case

    $36.99
    $36.99 - $36.99
    $36.99
    $23.99
    $23.99 - $23.99
    $23.99

    X30i Earplugs offers you one of the most innovative ear plug solutions yet. Simply choose which tip works best for you, insert these ear plugs in y...

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  • 1304314

    Safariland Ear Plug | Black | Rubber | Direct Replacement For SKU SLTCI-IMPULSE-HP-1-0

    $24.98
    $24.98 - $24.98
    $24.98
    $24.98
    $24.98 - $24.98
    $24.98

    This unique product offers superior noise-blocking (NRR of 33dB) performance in a reusable, high-end earplug. Its enhanced contoured shape is easy ...

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  • GS-X3.0T
    GS-X3.0B
    Save $64.61 Save $0.00

    AXIL GSX 3.0 | Bluetooth Earbuds | IP65 Water and Sweat Resistant | Black | Includes USB-C Charging Cable GS-X 3.0 B

    $184.60
    $184.60 - $184.60
    $184.60
    $119.99
    $119.99 - $119.99
    $119.99

    GSX 3.0 isn't just hearing protection, it's hearing control. The advanced electronic system automatically compresses harmful sounds above 85dB, ins...

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  • EP10-BK-MPR-BULK
    Save $59.90 Save $0.00

    Surefire Sonic Defender 10 - Ear Plug - Medium - Black - 25 Pairs

    $599.00
    $599.00 - $599.00
    $599.00
    $539.10
    $539.10 - $539.10
    $539.10

    Looking for the most effective and comfortable in-ear hearing protection? EP10 Sonic Defenders Ultra Max earplugs deliver, offering the highest lev...

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  • X20-DESERTTAN
    Save $9.00 Save $0.00

    AXIL X20 | Earplugs | Desert Tan | Includes (3) Silicon Tips | (2) Foam Tips and Pocket Carry Case

    $24.99
    $24.99 - $24.99
    $24.99
    $15.99
    $15.99 - $15.99
    $15.99

    X20 Earplugs offers you one of the most innovative ear plug solutions yet. Simply choose which tip works best for you and insert these ear plugs in...

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  • X30I-DESERTTAN
    Save $13.00 Save $0.00

    AXIL X30i | Earplugs | Desert Tan | Includes (3) Silicon Tips | (2) Foam Tips and Pocket Carry Case

    $36.99
    $36.99 - $36.99
    $36.99
    $23.99
    $23.99 - $23.99
    $23.99

    X30i Earplugs offers you one of the most innovative ear plug solutions yet. Simply choose which tip works best for you, insert these ear plugs in y...

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  • X20-BLUE
    X20-Black
    Save $9.00 Save $0.00

    AXIL X20 | Earplugs | Black | Includes (3) Silicon Tips | (2) Foam Tips and Pocket Carry Case

    $24.99
    $24.99 - $24.99
    $24.99
    $15.99
    $15.99 - $15.99
    $15.99

    X20 Earplugs offers you one of the most innovative ear plug solutions yet. Simply choose which tip works best for you and insert these ear plugs in...

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  • EP7-BK-MPR-BULK
    Save $59.90 Save $0.00

    Surefire Sonic Defender 7 - Ear Plug - Medium - Black - 25 Pairs

    $599.00
    $599.00 - $599.00
    $599.00
    $539.10
    $539.10 - $539.10
    $539.10

    Hearing protection should never be overlooked. EP7 Sonic Defenders Ultra earplugs safeguard your hearing from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) wit...

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  • MX-PASS-E
    Backordered

    AXIL MX Passive Earmuff | Black | Includes Standard Foam Cups

    $38.45
    $38.45 - $38.45
    $38.45
    $24.99
    $24.99 - $24.99
    $24.99

    The MX PASSIVE Earmuff Protection delivers consistent noise attenuation with a simple, durable design perfect for demanding work environments and o...

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  • MX-ELE-E
    Backordered

    AXIL MX Electronic Earmuff | 3.5mm AUX Connection | Black

    $92.29
    $92.29 - $92.29
    $92.29
    $59.99
    $59.99 - $59.99
    $59.99

    Experience dependable hearing protection with the MX ELECTRONIC Earmuff Protection. Designed to block harmful noise while enhancing safe, ambient s...

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  • EP5-BK-MPR
    Save $1.85 Save $0.00

    Surefire Sonic Defenders Max Ear Plug - Medium - Removable Cord - Black Finish

    $18.50
    $18.50 - $18.50
    $18.50
    $16.65
    $16.65 - $16.65
    $16.65

    Hearing protection isn't a game. It's essential for preventing Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). Affordable, reusable, full-block EP5 Sonic Defend...

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  • EP4-BK-MPR-BULK
    Save $47.50 Save $0.00

    Surefire Sonic Defender 4 - Ear Plug - Medium - Black - 25 Pairs

    $475.00
    $475.00 - $475.00
    $475.00
    $427.50
    $427.50 - $427.50
    $427.50

    Your hearing health should never be neglected. SureFire EP4 Sonic Defender Plus will protect your hearing from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) wi...

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