Tactical Helmet Designs Compared

It’s no secret that tactical helmet designs have come a long way in recent years. But with so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide, to help you compare different tactical helmet designs and find the perfect one for your needs.

The importance of a tactical helmet

A good tactical helmet can make all the difference in a battle, providing protection from enemy fire and giving you the advantage of superior visibility and hearing.

There are three main types of tactical helmets: ballistic, non-ballistic, and hybrid. Ballistic helmets are designed to protect the wearer from high-velocity projectiles, such as bullets. non-ballistic helmets are designed to protect the wearer from flying debris, such as shrapnel and glass shards. Hybrid helmets combine both ballistic and non-ballistic features and provide protection from both high-velocity projectiles and flying debris.

There are many different designs on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The types of tactical helmets can be further broken down into the following:

  • The first type of tactical helmet is the MICH (Modular Integrated Communications Helmet). This helmet is designed to offer superior protection from bullets and fragments, as well as provide built-in communications and night vision capabilities. The MICH helmet is popular with special forces units around the world.
  • The second type of tactical helmet is the PASGT (Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops). This helmet is designed to provide good all-around protection from blasts and bullets, while also being comfortable to wear for extended periods. The PASGT helmet is used by many militaries worldwide.
  • The third type of tactical helmet is the ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet). This helmet provides excellent protection from both bullets and fragmentation, while also offering enhanced hearing protection and improved communications capabilities. The ACH helmet is standard issue for many special forces units in the United States military.

Advantages and disadvantages of each type

There are three main types of tactical helmets currently in use by militaries and law enforcement around the world: the PASGT, MICH, and ACH. Each type has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages that must be considered before deciding which is best for a particular mission or operation.

  • PASGT: The PASGT helmet is made of Kevlar and provides good protection against small arms fire and shrapnel. It is also relatively comfortable to wear for long periods of time and has a built-in visor to protect the wearer’s eyes from flash bangs and other explosive devices. The main disadvantage of the PASGT helmet is its weight; at over three pounds, it can be quite tiring to wear for extended periods.
  • MICH: The MICH (Modular Integrated Communications Helmet) was developed as an improvement on the PASGT design. It is made from a lighter material (Ultralight Aramid), which makes it more comfortable to wear for long periods. It also has better ventilation and a removable visor. However, the MICH helmet provides less protection against small arms fire and shrapnel than the PASGT.
  • ACH: The ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet) is the latest design developed for the US military. It is made from Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), which makes it even lighter than the MICH (around two pounds).It also has better ballistic protection against small arms fire, improved ventilation, and a removable visor. However, like the MICH, it provides less protection against shrapnel than the PASGT.

How to choose the right type of tactical helmet

When it comes to choosing the right type of tactical helmet, there are a few things you need to take into account. The most important thing is the intended use of the helmet. Are you looking for a helmet that will offer protection from bullets or one that will provide protection from flying debris and debris from explosions?

Another important consideration is the weight of the helmet. Heavier helmets offer more protection but can be more difficult to wear for extended periods of time. Lighter helmets are easier to wear but may not offer as much protection.

No matter what type of helmet you choose, make sure it fits properly. A poorly fitting helmet can actually do more harm than good by impairing your vision or hearing or by causing neck or head injuries in the event of an impact.

The history of the tactical helmet

The tactical helmet is a type of helmet that is designed for military and law enforcement personnel. Tactical helmets first came into widespread use during the First World War, when soldiers began using them to protect themselves from shrapnel and other debris.

In the years since, tactical helmets have seen further development and refinement, with new designs being introduced to meet the needs of modern militaries and law enforcement units. Today, there are a variety of different types of tactical helmets available on the market, each designed for specific applications.

The different materials used in tactical helmets

The element of surprise is important in combat situations, which is why the color and design of military helmets are always evolving. In addition to colors and patterns that help soldiers blend into their surroundings, there are also different materials used in tactical helmets that offer varying levels of protection. Some of the most common materials used in tactical helmets are Kevlar, carbon fiber, and Aramid.

Kevlar is a strong, lightweight material that is often used in body armor and helmets. Carbon fiber is even lighter than Kevlar and offers superior protection from blunt force trauma. Aramid is a type of synthetic fiber that is heat resistant and also offers good protection from blunt force trauma.

Each type of material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right one for the job at hand.

For instance, Kevlar helmets are often preferred for use in hot climates because they offer good ventilation. Carbon fiber helmets offer the best protection against ballistic threats, but they are also the most expensive. Aramid helmets strike a good balance between weight, protection, and cost, making them a popular choice for many soldiers.

Ultimately, the decision of which material to use depends on the specific needs of the mission at hand.

The different sizes of tactical helmets

The sizes of tactical helmets are based on the circumference of your head. The most common sizes are small (21 to 22 inches), medium (22 to 23 inches), and large (23 to 24 inches). There are also extra-large sizes available for people with larger head circumferences.

To find out your head circumference, you can use a soft measuring tape or a string. Wrap the tape or string around your head about 1 inch above your eyebrows and make sure it is level all the way around. Once you have the measurement, you can compare it to the size charts of different brands to find the right fit.

There are also different shapes of tactical helmets available. The most common shapes are round and oval. Round helmets offer more coverage than oval helmets, but they can be difficult to wear with certain types of protective eyewear. Oval helmets are easier to wear with eyewear, but they don’t offer as much coverage.

How to care for your tactical helmet

A helmet is only as good as how well you take care of it. A properly cared for helmet will provide you with optimal protection and a longer lifespan. Here are some tips on how to care for your tactical helmet:

  • Always store your helmet in a cool, dry place
  • Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures
  • Do not store your helmet in direct sunlight
  • If your helmet becomes wet, allow it to air dry completely before storing
  • If your helmet becomes dirty, clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap
  • Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives

In Closing

The designs of tactical helmets vary due to the types of circumstances they are used for and the level of protection they offer. They also have differences in accessories, such as visors and communication devices. Make sure to take your time to select the right one for your needs as your life could depend on it.

NEXT UP: How Much Do Ballistic Helmets Weigh?

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Rebecca Ross
About Rebecca Ross

Rebecca Ross an Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) consultant who runs her own occupational safety consultancy. She focuses on hazardous materials, warehouse safety, fire safety, lab safety, fall protection, head protection and other workplace safety topics. Learn more about Rebecca here or connect with her on Twitter | LinkedIn | Medium