If I'm running a saw a bunch, i just use ear plugs. In fact i use them for mowing grass, grinding and welding, and for just about anything. If you simply wear them all the time you actually hear just fine, but everything is just quieter. Dramatically more comfortable for all day wear, with larger decibel reduction. I'm a fan of the comfort fit disposables. I also understand the need for hearing the hinge popping and stuff, i always wondered if one of those hunting muffs would be good for that where they eliminate loud noise but let you hear quiet noises....