I don't shoot the big bore rifles much since I do my big game hunting with a bow. I do some pretty good bird shoots(Argentina) and get a chance to run several thousand rounds through a shotgun on these trips.I have used the ESP unit,similar to Ray's only I have the model that goes for about $750 per pair.Very good protection(supression) and actually pretty good amplfication also...eyedoc

I have usd foam plugs a lot, but they are a pain as you miss all the sounds of nature + any advice from the PH/clicking of fingers etc...
Did any of you get ear pain from keeping the plugs in for several hours a day, several days in a row?

Another option is a custom made ear plug. They are molded to your ear, much like a hearing aid. You can wiggle them out slightly and hear almost 100% and just a nudge to seat them before you shoot and your protected. Run about $75-85 per pair at your local ENT. I keep the left one in all the time and wiggle the right one in an out. I have done it so much it is part of my shooting.

If you shoot right handed, pay most attention to the left ear since it receives a "bigger dose of noise' that the right one since your right ear is partly shielded by your shoulder and head position.

I use the less expensive ESP that eyedoc uses. I love them expecially for turkey hunting in the spring I can hear the grass growing and in the fall I hear acorns dropping on the next ridge.