A ballistic helmet is a protective gear that is used by police, sheriff, hunters, patrol forces, SWAT teams, military, and special forces as well. This gear provides head protection against shrapnel, splinters, head injuries, bullets, etc. As the security personnel encounters different types of threats and conditions, it is essential to have the right helmet.

Factors to Consider while Buying Ballistic Helmets

The ballistic helmets designed to protect the wearer from combat-based threats. Therefore, it is essential for military, law enforcement, police, etc. to have this safety gear. With plenty of options of style, configuration, etc. available in the market, choosing right the one can be daunting. Here are some key factors that can be helpful

  • Size

The helmets come in different sizes like small, large, medium, extra-large, etc. Based on the head size, you can check the available options to purchase the right size helmet. For ensuring the helmet size, it is advised to check the hat size and head size.

Ballistic Helmet

  • Shape

You would find different types of helmet shapes in the market such as:

  1. PASGT Helmet:

    PASGT stands for Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops. These are the traditional military-style helmet that offers full coverage of head as well as ears. It protects against bullets, shrapnel, and ballistic projectiles. Depending on the size, the weight of the helmet varies.

  2. ACH/MICH:

    ACH stands for Advanced Combat Helmet and MICH stands for Modular Integrated Communications Helmet. These helmets are lighter in weight in comparison to the PASGT helmet with added features to accommodate NVG (Night Vision Goggles) brackets. This helmet protects the wearer from bullets to shrapnel.

  3. FAST/ HIGH CUT:

    FAST stands for Future Assault Shell Technology. These helmets were designed specifically for the special maritime operation to accommodate for hearing protection as well as communication. The polyethylene fibers provide a high level of ballistic protection, and it weighs very less.

  • Material:

    Another important factor is material. The helmets are made from different materials. The list of some best materials includes Kevlar, UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and aramid fiber. Aramid fiber phenolic resin system is the most preferred choice because it has the ability to stretch. It absorbs energy and resists breaking.

  • Padding:

    Before finalizing ensure that the helmet includes suspension, a harness system, and padding to give a complete integral protective system.

Along with these aspects, do not forget to check for the adjustment points in the Ballistic helmet. The adjustment points and adjustable chin strap would help in getting the right fit.