This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure Here.
Tactical helmets are the obvious choice when it comes to protecting your head during a dangerous situation. Tactical ballistic helmets are mainly used during military combat, but we are seeing a growing number of hunters getting one. After all, accidents do happen, and getting safely home should always be the top priority on any trip.
There is a variety of tactical helmets on the market, and not all of them are ballistic-grade. While obviously confined to airsoft or other lighter uses, they are significantly cheaper. If you’re looking for a tactical helmet that will provide maximum protection in case of an accident, then you should consider a ballistic-grade model.
There are also a bunch of tactical helmet accessories that may come in handy on your next hunting trip. NVGs, helmet lights, communication devices, cameras, optics, and audio equipment to name a few. This makes them a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s arsenal and personnel armor system.
Things To Look For
Tactical helmets are now a popular accessory for many people to use. The design has changed over time, with the most recent being made more lightweight and high-performance so it can be used by different users in various fields like law enforcement or military operations and even hunters, hikers, and those that enjoy other forms of shooting sports like paintball.
Different Types
Recently, more and more civilians have been donning tactical helmets typically only seen on military personnel. For some, it's the delightful practicality of all the attachments available, while others prioritize maximum head protection. Today, there are two primary types of the tactical helmet on the market: bump and ballistic.
Ballistic
This tactical helmet, also known as a bulletproof helmet, is specifically designed for law enforcement or military personnel. These helmets undergo strict performance and safety testing from accredited agencies to ensure a high degree of head protection. They are developed to keep the head safe from different ballistic impact levels and to stay connected with other team members.
The best ballistic helmet for civilians is one that provides maximum protection without compromising comfort. It should also be compatible with NVGs (night vision goggles) and other accessories.
Bump
Bump helmets are designed for training, airsoft, and other outdoor sports. They can protect the head from minor blows, shrapnel, and falling debris. Compared to ballistic helmets, they are significantly cheaper but less durable.
Tactical bump helmets are lightweight and functional. They can mount extra accessories like comms gear, NVG devices, and flashlights.
Coverage
Some tactical helmets only offer coverage above the ears, while others extend to cover the ear area. Full-coverage helmets can protect your ears, but they can be heavy and hot to wear. There’s also the problem of adding communications equipment to a full-coverage helmet setup.
High-cut tactical helmets offer more ventilation since they leave your ears exposed. This design also allows for easy attachment of communications equipment to the rail. However, the lesser coverage offered by high-cut helmets can be risky in high-intensity combat situations where actual bullets are involved.
Accessories
A big selling point for tactical helmets is that they're able to carry other accessories to make them more functional. Examples of these add-ons are lights, face shields, and cameras. To ensure that your chosen helmet can actually hold these things securely, look for models with side rails that have tough mounts.
Some brands will even include free accessories in order to sweeten the deal. For instance, you might get a pair of goggles for eye protection or a mask to shield your face from the elements along with the helmet itself. These brands throw in a free cover just to spruce up an otherwise plain-looking piece of gear.
Customization
Designing and customizing your helmet is one of the best ways to make it uniquely yours. With multiple Velcro spots, you can add all sorts of different patches - from your favorite morale patches to name tags and IFFs. That way, you'll be able to easily identify your teammates while you're in the heat of the game.
Choose a helmet that can be adjusted to your head shape for the best fit. Many helmets are one-size-fits-all, which isn't ideal. Look for adjustable straps and removable pads. A knob or dial is even better to fine-tune the adjustments so you're comfortable while wearing the helmet.
The helmet is optimally fitted when it feels snug, and the crown pad rests on top of your head. You should be able to see the rim only if you attempt to look above without tilting your head up. Additionally, the helmet should remain in place even when you shake or move your head from side to side.
Level Of Protection
The most important function of a tactical helmet is to protect your head, so make sure to pick one that will do just that. Examine the helmet's material and confirm that it can take a hit without harming your skull.
ABS plastic might work if you only want the accessory for airsoft or other sports; this kind of substance slows down BB pellets significantly. If you need something more resistant to bullets, though, opt for Kevlar or another durable compound.
Are They Really Bulletproof
Only ballistic tactical helmets can stop bullets, but not entirely. They are only bulletproof to a certain extent and cannot provide full protection from all threats. These types of helmets can protect the head from bullets, shrapnel, blunt blows, and other dangers.
A level 3 ballistic helmet offers protection against different handgun rounds, such as the .44 magnum. Level 4 helmets provide protection against the same rifle rounds, but they offer a slightly higher level of protection.
What Helmets Do the Us Army Use
The ACH helmet used by the United States Army is globally recognized as being the best combat helmet available. They offer soldiers not only impact and ballistic protection but also comfort and stability without reducing their hearing or sight abilities. Additionally, these helmets have excellent pad suspension and retention systems.
DLP Tactical Impax Extreme Bump Helmet with Accessory Mounts
Protect your skull from knocks and bangs with the ImpaX Extreme bump helmet from DLP Tactical. Cut in the familiar MICH / ACH Advanced Combat Helmet pattern, zero transition time is needed between the ImpaX Extreme bump helmet and the heavier ballistic equivalents.
Perfect for high-speed/low-drag operators who do not need bullet-resistant protection or as a training/simulation aid for when the heavier ballistic helmets are not desired. The nylon fiber shell exceeds ANSI standards for impact and bump protection.
The ImpaX Extreme helmet can be comfortably used with modern communication headsets either worn under the helmet or attached to the side accessory rails.
Removable, replaceable Mil-standard Night Vision Goggle mount can equip any number of NVG headsets, perfect for low-light operations.
Standard sizing fits 95% of users, adjustable Worm Dial Liner suspension system, and reconfigurable internal EPP helmet pads offer a sure fit no matter your head size.
DLP TACTICAL: Separating The Operators From The Amateurs
OneTigris MICH 2000
With its 6mm thick ABS constructed build, this is the perfect head protection for airsoft with an excellent balance of impact, heat, chemical, and abrasion resistance. ABS plastic remains rigid and tough even in low temperatures, offering a longer lifespan than other plastics for more games on the field.
The helmet comes with shock-absorbent foam padding for heightened protection and maximized comfort, and we've tossed in 3 complimentary replacements.
The helmet has side rails to fit all kinds of accessories and is compatible with integrated NVG mounts (mount is not included with helmet) and other accessories you may need, and as is usual with our helmets there are multiple patch panels on all sides for morale patches, nameplates, and IR/reflective tabs.
Adjustments can be easily made through the dial and straps to tighten and loosen according to each player's preference, and you can see and feel the gritty surface that is an imitation of old wartime helmets, so during the game you don’t shine like a mirror for all the world to see.
Lancer Tactical Medium - Large Industrial ABS Plastic Constructed Maritime Helmet Adjustable Crown 20mm Side Rail Adapter Velcro Padding Stickers NVG Shroud Bungee Retention Goggle Clip - Dark Earth
The Lancer Tactical bump helmet has Velcro panels running along the helmet top, back, and side, you can add different user-preferred patches.
A front mount lets you attach brackets for night vision optics, cameras, and lights. The high-quality tactical helmet has added stability for goggles comes from two bungees, and the helmet side rails let you add different tactical accessories.
The Lancer Tactical CA-805B and its military styling give you good protection from heavy impact injuries and blunt trauma. You can adjust the Head-Lock Chinstrap in five locations, and a back dial lets you quickly adjust the helmet for a comfortable fit.
Specifications:
Material - Plastic
Rail Adapter 20mm x 1
W-L Adapter x1
M/ L 20.3-22.4 in ( 53cm -57cm )
Velcro Padding
Velcro Stickers
Helmet Padding
Adjustable Head Strap
Helmet Shroud
Side Rails with Goggle Strap Clips
Bungie Retention for NVG
CA-805 Maritime Helmet ABS
FEATURES:
- Rear dial knob for head size adjustment
- Side rails allow fitment of compatible accessories
- Velcro stickers allow fitment of safety lights and patches
- Helmet shroud allows fitment of NVG mounts
ATAIRSOFT PJ Type Tactical Multifunctional Fast Helmet with Visor Goggles Version
- ★★★ NOT suitable for big head!!!!! Hat size: 59 //Internal width: 6.69" (17cm); Internal length: 8.66" (22cm)
- ★Light weight: 550g /easy-carrying
- ★Include sliding goggles / Adjustable chin strap. ( It is not recommended to wear glasses under the visor )
- ★Side Rails fit a variety of accessories, Integrated NVG mount compatible with most GoPro NVG style mounts (NVG mount not included)
- ★ Great protection for tactical activities/ airsoft/ paintball//***Warning: This item is for adult only.
ActionUnion Tactical Airsoft Paintball Fast Helmet with Helmet Cover, PJ Type Tactical Multifunctional Protective NVG Mount for Multicam Military Sports Hunting Shooting
- Lightweight design: Easy to carry and grow less fatigued. It can provide users protection during indoor/MOUT/CQB environments in addition to guarding against BB hits at medium to extremely close range.
- Rail System & Velcro: Side Rails fit a variety of tactical accessories and have been fixed with the helmet body.NVG Shroud, Bungee Retention for NVG; Velcro Panels Allow Fitment of Patches. Most users commonly mount POV Cameras, lights/illuminators, battery boxes, IFF Markers (identification friend or foe), and Helmet Covers.
- Suitable for head circumference 22"-26" inch. (please note this important size information before placing an order). Adjustable suspender straps and chin/neck pad for fitting.
- High-Quality Material: ABS Engineering Plastics + EPS Anti-seismic Foam Plastic+ Nylon.Durable, High-Quality Construction for Head Protection.
- Fit for all kinds of outdoor activities: live CS, airsoft, paintball, hunting, war game, and military usage.
ATAIRSOFT Adjustable Maritime Helmet ABS for Airsoft Paintball
Advantage of maritime helmet
- Made of ABS high-quality nylon plastic, lightweight and easy to carry.
- The size can be adjusted according to your head circumference.
- Come with EPP soft cushion, more comfortable.
Why choose ATAIRSOFT?
- ATAIRSOFT focuses on developing airsoft gear and equipment. We have rich experience in airsoft gear and equipment.
- Our mission is to make customers enjoy outdoor activities.
- We're dedicated to providing the best products and innovating progressively. We focus on giving 5-star service to ensure you have the best experience. That's why ATAIRSOFT remains the gold standard name in Sports & Outdoors.
- NOT suitable for big heads!!!!! Please Check the size Instructions in the Picture Carefully to Make Sure the Helmet Fits Your Head Circumference. If You Feel a Little Tight, Try Removing the Mat From the Helmet.
- Adjustable: M/L Size: 53-57 cm （21-22.5 inch）; L/XL Size: 58-61 cm （22.5-24 inch）.
- Made by High-Quality ABS, Weight: about 770g
- Not Designed to Withstand or Protect Against Real Ammunition.
- Side Rails w/ Goggle Strap Clips & NVG Shroud, Bungee Retention for NVG; Velcro Panels Allow Fitment of Patches, IFF, Safety Lights, and Nametapes; Lightweight But Durable, High-Quality Construction for Head Protection//***Warning: This item is for adult only.
HYOUT Fast Base Jump Helmet PJ Style Airsoft Helmets U.S Military Tactical Helmet for Paintball Outdoor Sports Hunting Shooting
- 【Best Size】：HYOUT MH Type helmet is fit for the Person Who Head Circumference is 22.04-24.00 inches. Adjustable suspender straps and chin/neck pad for best fitting. Note: This helmet is not suitable for people with larger head circumferences.
- 【Durable & Lightweight & Comfortable】：HYOUT airsoft helmets Constructed of high quality ABS Engineering Plastics + EPS Anti-seismic Foam Plastic + Velcro + Nylon.Helmet internal full use of high-quality foam features lightweight and comfortable.
- 【Practical Design】：An adjustable system with replaceable leather front, nape, and side pads quickly detach to allow convenient donning and doffing of comms headsets with internal top headbands. 【Great Multi-Function Helmet 】： Side Rails fit a variety of
- 【Great Multi-Function Helmet 】： Side Rails fit a variety of accessories, Integrated NVG mount compatible with most GoPro NVG style mounts. Perfect For Training, Search and Rescue, Enthusiasts, Riding, Jumping, CS Airsoft, Paintball Games, and other outdoor activities.
- 【Why HYOUT】：You will receive 1 headwear free when you purchase 1 helmet offered by us. You have nothing to risk by buying our helmet! You can't beat the real thing! You're worth it!
Outry Tactical Helmet, Adjustable ABS Helmet with Side Rails and NVG Mount, Outdoor Protective Helmet for Airsoft Paintball Hunting Shooting Outdoor Sports
Accessory side rail connectors provide attachment points for quick attach or release, such as flashlights, cameras, visors, COMs, headsets...etc.
- Made of high-quality durable ABS engineering plastics and nylon, which is wear-resistant and durable. The package comes with EVA padding, making your wearing more comfortable.
- Product weight: 2.1lbs/0.94kg, package weight: 2.6lbs/1.2kg. Package size: 28.5 x 23 x 17.5cm(11.2” x 9.1” x 6.9”).
- Adjustable suspender straps and chin/neck pad for best fitting. Fits a head circumference of about 52-66cm (20.5-25.9 inch). PLEASE NOTE: make sure you can wear it before you buy it.
- Loop panels around, provide an extra place to unique your helmet with patch attachment. Accessory side rail connectors provide attachment points for quick attach or release, such as flashlights, cameras, visors, COMs headsets...etc.
- Great head protection for airsoft, paintball, hunting, and shooting tactical activities.
Jadedragon MICH 2000 Style ACH Tactical Helmet with Protect Ear Foldable Double Straps Half Face Mesh Mask & Goggle
Warning
This product is restricted for survival games use only, Its material and design are neither bulletproof nor shockproof, Not Designed to Withstand or Protect Against Real Ammunition
100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: If you are not satisfied with our goods, please email us and we will refund you.
Helmet Material: ABS Engineering Plastics + EPS Anti-seismic Foam Plastic sponge padding+ Hook and Loop + Nylon helmet strap
Mask: steel metal mesh face mask with soft padded nylon fabric
Goggle: Main material is Thermoplastic Polyurethanes; the material of the lens is polycarbonate
Fits a head circumference of about 56-61cm (22-24 inches)
Naked helmet weight:660G
Helmet size: 23*26*
Function
Adjustable suspender straps and chin/neck pad for best fitting, Removable and adjustable internal padding Comfortable, easy to wear.
Hook&Loop panels on the right and left for Morale Patches, Nameplates, and IR/Reflective Tabs
360 ° all-round protection, Very comfortable and adjustable and holds up great while in-game
Suitable for paintball, airsoft, CS game, cycling, rock climbing
LOOGU Airsoft Helmet, Fast MH Type Bump Tactical Combat Protective Gear for Outdoor Activities with 12-in-1 Face Mask
- Note: Please check the size instruction carefully to make sure the helmet fits your head circumference. After you receive the helmet and feel a little tight, please remove the mat from inside the helmet.
- Size: The helmet is suitable for people with small head circumference, please confirm that your head circumference is within the size range before purchasing.
- Material: Made of High-quality ABS, weight about 1 lb.
- Adjustable straps for maximum fitment, ventilation holes, side rails, & NVG mount, velcro panels for patches, IFF, & Nametapes, the perfect replica of the real thing
- Great for hunting, and other outdoor activities. Perfect helmet for airsoft/paintball players
Modern Warrior Tactical M88 ABS Tactical Helmet with Adjustable Chin Strap, Digital Camo
Camouflage M88 Tactical Helmet manufactured tactical gear. This helmet features an adjustable chin and head strap to allow one size to fit most individuals.
The ABS Tactical Helmet measures 11"L x 10"W x 7.5"H. The helmet is great for tactical environments, such as airsoft and paintball.
Not meant to provide any protection or safety. Each helmet is fairly lightweight, weighing about 2lbs.
Resembles SWAT helmets, Kevlar helmets, and PASGT helmets.
By Modern Warrior
Conclusion
A good tactical helmet is a key to the success of your mission, be it for airsoft or hunting. The best tactical helmets share one essential trait: functionality. They should have the capacity to accommodate other accessories, like action cameras and flashlights. For more mundane applications, you can use a standard baseball cap instead of a full-fledged tactical helmet.
Short of body armor and not knowing what the future assault shell technology will bring there's no way of knowing what could happen but a good tactical helmet is the right place to start!
