The only downside to using a short gun IMO is hearing.
I have a set of "cut off" headgear, but I dont like them as its hard to figure out what direction the sound is coming from.
Are there any non electronic plugs out there that allow sound but cancel the "blast"?
Thanks

Id use that method but I need to pull the trigger:)

There was a product called 'Sonic II ear plugs' that claimed to have a physical valve that allow normal sound levels to pass through and yet block harmful loud noises. From what I've seen they have been replaced by 'Shooter’s Impact Noise Reducing Ear Plugs' and 'Surefire EP3 Sonic Defender Ear Protection'. The Sonic II style was only rated at NRR 18 which is pretty marginal for gunshot type noise (compare to high end earmuffs with NRR 30). Maybe OK for occasional shots in an open hunting environment, but I wouldn't use it at a range or in an enclosed area such as a blind. Likewise, I wouldn't trust it with a ported 460 etc.

http://www.earplugstore.com/health-enterprises-acu-life-shooters-impact-ear-plugs.html

I just bought these at the suggestion of another member. They are exactly the same as my old 'Sonic II' plugs which I've been using the same pair for about 15 years. The new ones are just a different color. They have a noise reduction rating of 18. I find them great for trap shooting. At the range I would still wear muffs. I also wear the Sonic's while hunting since I put them in at the beginning and forget about them till the hunt's over.

Yeah but I couldn't resist!

I need to get some of these.

Folks,

A major factor in hearing / damage to hearing results from bone conduction of the sonic impulse. An ear plug only addresses air conduction, Gary's method also. That is why ear muffs + ear plugs are the best to protect a shooter's hearing. That being said, at the range I wear both. When I'm hunting, just the sonic plugs. Can't get used to hunting with muffs.

Doc