What is a Tactical Helmet? 🧐
These are specialized pieces of protective headgear designed for military, law enforcement, and security personnel operating in dangerous environments. Unlike ordinary helmets which just provide impact protection, these helmets offer ballistic and blast protection from bullets, shrapnel, and explosive fragments that could strike the head in combat situations.
They are constructed from advanced ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and aramid fibers which are lightweight and exceptionally strong to absorb and deflect these threats. These helmets encompass the entire head for comprehensive coverage and typically have built-in mounts or rails to integrate accessories like night vision goggles, cameras, mandible face guards, and communications equipment.
Parts 🔰
It consists of several integral parts that provide protection, stability, and modularity for the wearer. The main component is the rigid outer shell, usually made of advanced ballistic materials like aramid, UHMWPE, or hybrid composites that are capable of stopping bullets and fragments.
Within the shell is a suspension system, typically consisting of thick pads attached to a mesh or strap harness that connects to the interior headband. This suspension system cushions the head provides stability, and allows for proper adjustment and venting.
Connecting the shell to the suspension are removable and adjustable retention systems such as a chinstrap, nape strap, and rail mounts that keep the helmet firmly in place when in use.
Many of these helmets also have an integrated shroud that extends down to protect the wearer’s neck.
Additional elements like Picatinny accessory rails, night vision goggle mounts, padded bolt-on accessories, and hook/loop fastener pads enable extensive customization with add-ons like visors, cameras, strobes, and communications gear. Together, these major components form a helmet system capable of protecting the head during combat operations while also providing user comfort and mission-enhancing modularity.
Types 💥
Ballistic Helmets |
Bump Helmets |
| 📌 The primary and most crucial feature is the ability to provide protection against ballistic threats. These helmets are typically constructed with ballistic-resistant materials, such as aramid fibres (e.g., Kevlar) or high-strength composites, capable of stopping or mitigating the impact of bullets or fragments. | 📌 Inside the shell, these helmets usually have a layer of foam or padding. This padding serves multiple purposes, including providing comfort, cushioning against impacts, and helping to absorb and disperse energy. |
| 📌 The outer shell of a ballistic helmet is typically made from a strong and durable material, such as advanced ballistic composites or fibre-reinforced materials. | 📌These helmets often include a suspension system that helps to secure the helmet to the wearer’s head and provides a comfortable fit. This system may consist of adjustable straps, pads, or a combination of both. |
| 📌 Similar to bump helmets, ballistic helmets include a suspension system inside the shell. This system consists of adjustable straps, pads, or a combination of both to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for the wearer. | 📌 Many of them come with mounting points or rails that allow for the attachment of accessories such as headlamps, cameras, or other equipment. This feature is particularly useful for individuals working in low-light or tactical situations. |
| 📌 In addition to ballistic protection, these helmets often provide enhanced protection against fragmentation and explosive blasts. They may incorporate additional layers or materials to help mitigate the impact of fragments and reduce the risk of head injuries in combat or hazardous environments. | 📌 They often feature accessory attachment points, such as rails, loops, or hook-and-loop panels, that allow for the attachment of additional gear, patches, or identification markers. |
| 📌 Many of them are designed to be compatible with communication headsets, allowing wearers to maintain communication while wearing the helmet. This feature ensures efficient communication in tactical operations or military settings. | 📌 While bump helmets are not designed to provide ballistic protection like combat helmets, they are constructed to offer a certain degree of impact resistance and protect against low-velocity impacts, bumps, and minor debris. |
Levels of Protection 📕
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is the United States’ premier research, development and evaluation agency in the field of criminal justice. It sets the standard for ballistic protection when it comes to these helmets. There are several levels of protection outlined by the NIJ that detail the degree of deflection a helmet can provide against certain projectiles.
- 🔎 NIJ Level I provides basic protection against handgun rounds like 9mm and .40 S&W FMJ rounds that travel at low velocities.
- 🔎 NIJ Level IIA offers improved protection from handguns travelling at higher velocities, like .357 SIG FMJ or 9mm FMJ rounds that reach velocities of up to 1350 feet per second. These helmets must be able to both contain and deflect these types of projectiles.
- 🔎 NIJ Level II offers further improvement from handgun threats with good resistance from up to .44 Magnum SJHP rounds travelling at velocities up to 1400 feet per second. This level provides more comprehensive coverage than its predecessor for increased safety.
- 🔎 NIJ Level IIIA is capable of defeating the most common handgun ammo, including .357 SIG FMJFN rounds travelling at speeds up to 1470 feet per second as well as 9mm submachine gun ammunition and some shotgun shells.
- 🔎 NIJ Level III is designed for maximum protection from rifles and other high-velocity firearms such as those firing 5.56x45mm NATO or 7.62x51mm NATO M80 ball ammunition travelling over 2800 feet per second.
Advantages 🔥
| Criterion: | Description: |
| 🟡 Ballistic protection | The hard shell is designed to stop bullets and fragments that could cause trauma to the head. This protects the wearer from gunfire and shrapnel. |
| 🟡 Increased situational awareness | Helmets allow the integration of mounting systems for accessories like night vision goggles, cameras, and lights. This improves the operator’s ability to see and understand their surroundings. |
| 🟡 Custom stability | Adjustable suspension and retention systems provide a customizable, stable fit to each wearer’s head for comfort and safety. |
| 🟡 Impact absorption | The interior padding and suspension system help absorb and dissipate the energy from blunt force impacts, decreasing the chance of serious injury. This protects from blows, bumps, and falls. |
| 🟡 Hearing protection | Helmets block hazardous impulse noise from gunfire and explosions. When combined with communication headsets, they facilitate radio contact. |
| 🟡 Modularity | Accessory rails and mounting points allow operators to tailor their helmet configuration to the mission. Attachments can be added and removed quickly. |
Tactical Helmet Review | Best Tactical Helmet
| Image | Product | Brand | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Team Wendy [EXFIL Ballistic] Tactical Helmet | Team Wendy |  |
| Team Wendy [EXFIL SAR] Tactical Helmet | Team Wendy | |
 | Team Wendy [EXFIL Carbon] Tactical Helmet | Team Wendy | |
 | Avon Protection Ultra-Light Weight Tactical Helmet | Avon Protection | |
 | Avon Protection Combat High Cut Ballistic Tactical Helmet | Avon Protection | |
 | United Shield Spec Ops DELTA Ballistic Tactical Helmet Level IIIA | United Shield | |
 | United Shield Spec Ops Delta Gen II Tactical Helmet | United Shield | |
 | United Shield Spec Ops Delta Mid Cut X-harness Tactical Helmet | United Shield | |
 | United Shield Spec Ops Delta Gen II Mid Cut Tactical Helmet | United Shield | |
 | Shellback Tactical Level IIIA Ballistic High Cut Tactical Helmet | Shellback | |
 | Shellback Tactical Level IIIA Ratcheting Ballistic Tactical Helmet | Shellback Tactical | |
 | NcSTAR Level IIIA Ballistic Tactical Helmet | NcSTAR | |
1# Team Wendy [EXFIL Ballistic] Tactical Helmet
Team Wendy has been in the gear market for almost 20 years, and they don’t disappoint. The specific Exfil ballistic SL rail models are made out of polyester mesh, covered with nylon/spandex stretch fabric, weighing around 900 grams. While being extremely lightweight, this model is a secure fit providing firm protection. The helmet is EXFIL Ballistic compatible, and Berry Amendment compliant.
2# Team Wendy [EXFIL SAR] Tactical Helmet
Another Team Wendy model, specially designed for Search and Rescue missions, with NVG Shroud, which proves to be extremely lightweight. Additional selling points of these helmets are the characteristics like meeting industrial and mountaineering performance standards and being suitable for night vision devices. Exfil SAR Helmet comes with increased security through a 4-point CAM FIT retention system and BOA closure system. This allows for easy adjustment and release. Concerning the build, the Exfil SAR helmet is made from high strength Lexan polycarbonate copolymer shell, with an integrated Wilcox aluminium shroud. Substantial features it packs are the SAR Rail mounting system, BOA closure system, and Military CAM FIT retention system.
3# Team Wendy [EXFIL Carbon] Tactical Helmet
The Exfil Carbon Series is an exceptional utility when it comes to feature-packed carbon helmets. Built from rugged lightweight carbon fiber, this tactical helmet can be modified with additional accessories that can be attached to it. It features LTP Rail 2.0 and LTP RAIL 3.0 systems which are almost essential for mounting hardware. The Zorbium foam liner comes with comfort pads creating a soft and gentle fit. The helmet exceeds the ACH Blunt Impact Protection requirement, providing safety and security while preserving comfort. In addition to this, it comes equipped with a cam fit retention system, which distributes light pressure around the head, ensuring a comfortable and excellent fit.
4# Avon Protection Ultra-Light Weight Tactical Helmet
Avon is a lightweight protective helmet having the highest performance-to-weight ratio on the market. Coming with a flexible rail system built-in, with a higher cut, Avon supports supplementary operational accessories, be it night vision or various contact devices.Overall, it is a versatile piece of equipment that stays secure and stable while performing all kinds of physical activities: jumping, bumping, or ballistic operations. This item is available to Military and Law Enforcement Agencies, or qualified personnel owning identification and certification forms.
5# Avon Protection Combat High Cut Ballistic Tactical Helmet
Avon High Cut Combat Protection Ballistic Helmet is a helmet manufactured with the US Military ACH helmet in mind, with a more lightweight build – providing extra advanced ballistic protection. The helmet features an unobstructed view coupled with increased hearing capabilities. It is EAR-controlled and attenuates shock efficiently. The polymer pads protect from impacts through innovative thermally sealed technology, while the retention system remains securely tight providing a great fit. The helmet is highly configurable when it comes to accessories. This item is available to Military and Law Enforcement Agencies, or qualified personnel owning identification and certification forms.
6# United Shield Spec Ops DELTA Ballistic Tactical Helmet Level IIIA
United Shield Spec Ops Delta Ballistic Helmet is a high-quality headpiece built for military personnel. The build consists of advanced Aramid composites protecting from ballistic and fragmentation projectiles, including low energy threats. Coming with 4 4-point adjustable harness from Team Wendy, the helmet fashions a split suede chin strap, and an X-style suede neck pad – which can be detached for cleaning or replacing it. The helmet also comes with a universal NVG mount and Picatinny rails, providing a flexible system of interchangeable extensions.
7# United Shield Spec Ops Delta Gen II Tactical Helmet
Spec Ops Delta Gen II Ballistic Helmet is a unique arrangement of the United Shield line. It comes with an upgraded IC NVG Mount, expanding the scope of fitting night-vision modules to be attached. Secures a proper sound fit through the USI Rapid Adjustment BOA harness, absolutely firm – yet gentle. To provide an even more reliable fit – it comes with bungees and Velcro, followed by 4D Tactical pads to ensure softness and stability. This item is available to Military and Law Enforcement Agencies, or qualified personnel owning identification and certification forms.
8# United Shield Spec Ops Delta Mid Cut X-harness Tactical Helmet
The Spec Ops Delta Mid Cut X-harness Ballistic Helmet is a military black helmet, covering level IIIA protection – shielding from shootings and deadly weapons. What it means is – its build is strong enough to protect you from 9mm round travelling up to 1400ft/s. This by itself covers .44 magnum and .44 calibre rounds. Apart from this, the helmet includes a USI X-Harness Mid Cut, ensuring confidence and excellent security. This item is available to Military and Law Enforcement Agencies, or qualified personnel owning identification and certification forms.
9# United Shield Spec Ops Delta Gen II Mid Cut Tactical Helmet
United Shield Spec Ops Delta Gen II Mid Cut Tactical Helmet comes with an upgraded IC NVG Mount, extending the pool of compatible night-vision modules. When it comes to fit – it has bungees and Velcro built-in, with 4D Tactical giving a tender feeling of safety. The fit is secured through a USI Rapid Adjustment BOA harness, utterly solid – yet light. This item is available to Military and Law Enforcement Agencies, or qualified personnel owning identification and certification forms.
10# Shellback Tactical Level IIIA Ballistic High Cut Tactical Helmet
Shellback Tactical Level IIIA Ballistic High Cut SF ACH Helmet is a level IIIA Ballistic High Cut SF ACH Helmet. Naturally, its scope encompasses I through IIIA protection, with IIIA stopping handgun rounds including .44 magnum. It is presumed to protect from .25 auto and lessor-powered ammunition. Featuring a low profile cut, it allows for simplified access to radio headsets, minimizing the weight and target acquisition complications without an interface. The helmet is labeled concerning California Proposition 65.
11# Shellback Tactical Level IIIA Ratcheting Ballistic Tactical Helmet
Shellback Tactical Tactical Level IIIA Ratcheting Ballistic Helmet is a level IIIA Ballistic Standard Cut ACH Helmet. Covering I through IIIA protection, IIIA stops handgun rounds including .44 magnum. In addition to IIIA, the helmet covers MilStd 662F fragment protection, making it even better and more protective. The design allows for a greater line of sight and communication modules. It also comes with a gentle seven-piece pad system, ensuring a more secure fit. The helmet is labelled California Proposition 65.
12# NcSTAR Level IIIA Ballistic Tactical Helmet
NcSTAR Level IIIA Ballistic Helmet w/Carry Case is a helmet that has the potential to turn the tides of a conflict. It is an attempt at an effective safety strategy, designed with remarkably resilient and efficient materials. It provides IIIA protection including I IIIA protection, with IIIA stopping handgun rounds including a .44 magnum. It is proven that headgear protecting from .44 magnum is capable of protecting from .25 auto and lessor-powered ammunition.
Cleaning 🧼🚿
Cleaning helmets regularly is important to maintain their protective qualities and extend their service life. Here are some best practices for properly cleaning:
⚪ Start by removing any attached accessories, like night vision mounts, rail covers, or communications headsets. It’s also advisable to take out the removable interior pads and suspension system. This allows you to thoroughly clean all surfaces of the helmet shell and its components.
⚪ Fill a sink or bucket with cool, clean water and add a small amount of mild dish soap or detergent. Use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the helmet shell, straps, pads, rails, and any other parts to remove dirt, grime, salt deposits from sweat, and other contaminants. Pay close attention to crevices and mesh areas where buildup often occurs. Avoid using abrasive brushes or scouring pads, as they can damage the helmet finish.
⚪ Once scrubbed, rinse all components thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. It may take several rinses to completely flush away the suds. Shake off any excess water and allow the helmet parts to air dry fully before reassembling.
⚪ For the interior padding, it is best to remove them entirely and hand wash them in soapy water. Let them air dry as well. The pads can also be spot-cleaned by scrubbing soiled areas with a damp cloth. Be careful not to oversaturate.
⭕ Some manufacturers recommend occasional disinfecting using isopropyl alcohol applied with a soft cloth and then buffed dry. This helps kill germs and bacteria if the helmet is being used by multiple people.
When helmets are very dirty, a deeper cleaning may be necessary using more involved techniques. Always refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions for proper cleaning methods specific to your helmet model. With regular basic cleaning, a helmet will provide years of reliable head protection.
Please watch this video to learn more information 📺
FAQ 🔔
There are three main cuts available for ballistic helmets: High Cut, Mid Cut, and Low Cut.
🔎 High Cut Ballistic Helmets are the most popular type as they provide the most coverage and protection while still allowing for a snug fit with minimal bulkiness. This design is often seen in military applications as it offers more coverage than other designs and offers good protection against fragmentation and shrapnel. They usually feature an adjustable harness to ensure optimal fitment and comfort.
🔎 Mid Cut Ballistic Helmets offer a less bulky shape that allows for better peripheral vision while still providing adequate protection. These helmets tend to be lighter than high-cut models and may have fewer features such as integrated earcups or additional padding. They can also have slimmer profiles which makes them great for certain tactical applications where a low profile is desired.
🔎 Low Cut Ballistic Helmets are designed to provide maximum coverage with minimal bulk. These helmets usually feature deeper earcups, chin straps, or additional cushioning for optimum comfort and performance levels. However, due to their lower profile, they may not offer the same level of coverage as mid or high-cut models do making them unsuitable for certain scenarios where more comprehensive protection is needed.
Conclusion 😎
When it comes to buying a tactical helmet, it’s important to consider all of the factors we discussed in this guide. From size and weight considerations to features such as rails or NVG mounts, there is much more than meets the eye when looking for a quality product. We hope that by reading through our reviews and tips you are now well informed on your purchase decision so you can make an educated choice when choosing the best helmet for your needs. With the right amount of research and preparation, you will be sure to find yourself with a reliable piece of protective gear that fits perfectly into any situation! 🛒💸
Best Brands🧨
Just to wrap it up, there are a few important notions you have to know when it comes to picking a tactical helmet. Through our research we have come to conclude that few brands are concerned for the safety of their customers and build high-quality gear:
Team Wendy – 
Committed to improving the safety of individuals risking their lives with head protection every day, Team Wendy is an Avon protection company that has been in business since 1997. A great deal of the company’s work is focused on creating cutting-edge products that protect against serious injuries. In Team Wendy’s philosophy, the wearer is protected so they can concentrate on their mission rather than worrying about their safety. Website – www.teamwendy.com
Shelback Tactical – 
Shellback Tactical relies on continuous technological development to stay on top of rapidly changing trends. By using an innovative design approach, it produces unique equipment that is uniquely effective. The brand promises to provide the highest quality materials, with the latest design processes, exceeding the customer’s needs and expectations. Website – www.shellbacktactical.com
Avon Protection 
– Avon Protection provides complete solutions for air, land, and sea-based personnel in the military, law enforcement, and first responders. Avon has been designing and manufacturing respirators for a variety of CBRN applications for over 50 years, with a quality safety record that is unmatched. Website – www.avon-protection.com
United Shield 
– United Shield International manufactures protection equipment and ballistics for personal protection against personal ballistic and fragmentation threats. The management team and staff have more than one hundred years of collective specialist experience and expertise in designing and manufacturing ballistic helmets, body armour, ballistic shields, hard armor plates, EOD/IED protection equipment, mine clearance and demining equipment, and a variety of other ballistic and fragmentation protection products. All products are made from market-leading ballistic material, including the latest para-aramids, lightweight polyethylenes (Dyneema and Spectra Shield), ceramics, and composites. Website – www.unitedshield.com
Rothco (cheapest price / low quality) 
– The Rothco brand has been wholesale since 1953 and its products are extremely affordable. Protective gear that is inexpensive and available everywhere makes up the brand’s mission. Website – www.rothco.com
Check-in with the local authorities whether you have the legal capacity of owning body armor. If so refer to the information above and choose your fit.
Tags: tactical helmet, tactical bump helmet, tactical helmet accessories, tactical helmet light, full face tactical helmet, military tactical helmet
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As soon as I got my first plate carrier, my immediate focus shifted to finding the perfect helmet. Although I haven’t made the purchase yet, it’s primarily because my finances have been getting tighter and tighter. The allure of helmets and night vision devices (NODs) has always captivated me, even though it annoys my wife to no end! Once I’ve acquired a new pair of duty boots and completed some medical training, my next goal will be getting a helmet. Your post was incredibly informative, as usual, and I’m eagerly looking forward to your next one!
I personally know someone in the army who experienced a direct shot to the head. Don’t do that. Fortunately, ACH took what could have been a fatal hit and turned it into nothing more than a severe headache and concussion. This incident made me realize the crucial importance of helmets in protecting our lives.
Sorry, what is ACH ?
The ACH is an upgraded version of the MICH helmet, which stands for Advanced Combat Helmet.
🔰 It is designed for people who want to attach accessories like night vision goggles or communication devices to their ballistic helmet. The MICH and ACH helmets are very similar in appearance.
Please explain for the person who knows nothing – the night vision can be added to the helmet or not
There are three ways in which a night vision goggles mount can come on a ballistic helmet: single-hole, three-hole, or boltless design.
🔰 The most common and cost-effective design for mounting a bracket on a helmet is the single-hole design. This involves fastening the bracket using a single screw placed at the center of the front of the helmet.
🔰 The three-hole design is more secure and typically pricier compared to a single hole because its triangular shape provides more points of contact with the helmet.
🔰 The mount, which has a boltless design, attaches to a rail on the helmet. Though it’s not as common as the other two types, it’s becoming more popular.
As soon as I got my first plate carrier, my immediate focus shifted to finding the perfect helmet. Although I haven’t made the purchase yet, it’s primarily because my finances have been getting tighter and tighter. The allure of helmets and night vision devices (NODs) has always captivated me, even though it annoys my wife to no end! Once I’ve acquired a new pair of duty boots and completed some medical training, my next goal will be getting a helmet. Your post was incredibly informative, as usual, and I’m eagerly looking forward to your next one!
Hello. Very informative, thank you. I am a beginner. And it was very important for me to find well done article
Thank you for your kind words 👍