The average decibel level of these devices ranges anywhere from about 80 decibels to around 105 decibels. To put that into perspective, the average car horn clocks in at around 110 decibels. Of course, car horns typically have a longer honk, whereas the ring from these products are very short and abbreviated. One of the loudest designs that we found out there on the market comes in at 120 decibels- which is far more than enough to alert people that you are coming. When using these products, be sure to show a little common courtesy to your fellow trail travelers.
These devices may not be as loud as your standard car horn, but when you are walking a peaceful trail with only the sounds of the birds and the breeze through the trees, a spontaneous ring that is just a little quieter than a car horn can be quite alarming- especially within close proximity. That’s why we suggest that you don’t wait until the last possible second to alert fellow travelers. Create a good deal of space between you and the others before your ring your bell. By doing so, you give them plenty of time to get over for you, and you are also going to spare them the embarrassment of nearly jumping out of their skin!