Updated March. 2023: Added Hard Head Veterans ATE Lite.
In recent years, tactical (and often tacti-cool) type gear has become increasingly popular among civilians.
For some people, there’s a certain appeal to owning the same thing as (or at least something similar to) what actual soldiers are using. Some veterans enjoy owning tactical items because it connects them to their time in service.
And some people just enjoy the practical aspect of tactical items, like durable protection and lots of pockets.
Regardless of which of these groups you fit in, the tactical helmet is an awesome and practical piece of tactical equipment to add to your collection.
THE QUICK LIST
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Editor’s Pick Ballistic Helmet
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Affordable Bump Helmet
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Best Lightweight Helmet
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Higher-End Bump Helmet
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Best High-End Ballistic Helmet
Table of Contents
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Best Tactical and Ballistic Helmets
Now that we’ve covered what and where to look for a tac helmet, let’s move on to some recommendations.
1. Editor’s Pick Ballistic Helmet: Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen 2
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen 2 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Veteran-owned and operated company
- Undergone rigurous safety testing
- Micro-lattice is a comfortable addition
Cons
- Not for those on a tight budget
You can rest assured that Hard Head Veterans knows their stuff because tac helmets are all they do.
They are veteran-owned and operated, and their entire team is connected to military or law enforcement in some way.
On top of that, they perform rigorous safety testing on all of the tac helmets that they sell and offer an incredible warranty.
We’ve used their Gen 1 helmet (above) in our Best Night Vision Goggles article and we recently reviewed their Gen 2 with Micro Lattice Pads.
Their Gen 2 version is completely redesigned too…from the front adapter to the side rail adapters.
The ATE is Kevlar, and HHV also sells a tactical bag for your tactical helmet, helmet covers, and pads to customize your helmet’s fit and comfort.
We also really like the addition of the Micro Lattice Pads, which keep your head nice and cool — even on hot days.
Use code “PEWPEWTACTICAL” for $15 off your order! And check out our full review.
What’s your take on HHV? Rate them below!
2. Affordable Bump Helmet: Lancer Tactical Bump Helmet
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Lancer Tactical Bump Helmet Pros & Cons
Pros
- Budget friendly option
- Good for emergency preparedness
- Has accessory rails for extras
Cons
- No ballistic protection
First off – no, this is not the same Lancer famous for their AR-15 magazines.
This is a bump helmet, so it won’t offer ballistic protection. Of course, most of us aren’t often in situations where getting shot in the head is a big concern.
Ballistic helmets are often several times more expensive than bump helmets, a lot of extra money to spend on something that’s not a high priority.
If you’re more concerned with protecting your head from bumps and bruises rather than gunfire and you want the ability to mount accessories, the Lancer Tactical provides that at a cheap price point.
The helmet features dovetail accessory rails on each side and a front
3. Best Lightweight Ballistic Helmet: Hard Head Veterans ATE Lite
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Hard Head Veterans ATE Lite Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight at 2.3lbs
- Micro lattice adds extra comfort
Cons
- Pricey
Another option from HHV is the ATE Lite. Based upon customer feedback, the company wholly produced this helmet in America — Sweetwater, Texas, in fact.
The ATE Lite has all the features the Gen2 does, but even as a level IIIA-rated helmet, this version only tips the scales at 2.3 pounds for the medium size. Add the fact that the Lite comes standard with the Micro Lattice padding, and you’ve got a helmet that’s wearable all day long.
We’ve tested out the Lite for a while now and really enjoy the level of comfort and protection it provides. Plus, we’ve been able to mount up all our favorite accessories, too.
The Lite is .67 pounds lighter than the standard Gen2. That and the fact it’s made wholly in the USA mean you’ll spend a little bit more money for it though.
4. Best Hight-End Bump Helmet: Team Wendy LTP EXFIL
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Team Wendy LTP EXFIL Pros & Cons
Pros
- Bump helmet
- Lightweight and easy to wear
- Very comfrotable
Cons
- A little pricier so might not work for everyone's budget
The Cadillac of non-ballistic bump helmets, Team Wendy, is huge in the search & rescue community due to their attention to detail, high quality, and innovative design.
Enter…their LTP EXFIL. We’ve been testing this one out for over a year, and we love it.
Lightweight, easy to wear, lots of options for mounting NVGs, white lights, and more – Team Wendy helmets are perfect for protecting your head and enhancing your capabilities.
Plus, they are comfy!
5. Best High-End Ballistic Helmet: Crye Precision AirFrame
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Crye Precision AirFrame Pros & Cons
Pros
- Top-of-the line protection
- Compatible with most common NVGs and ear pro
- Lightweight build
Cons
- Very expensive at $1K+
If you’re looking at Crye Precision, make sure you bring your biggest wallet.
Anything made by Crye is top of the line, amazing quality, designed for combat, and priced accordingly.
The AirFrame is no exception – it’s a no-frills design that is an industry leader in protection.
Ballistically rated, lightweight, and designed to be compatible with the most common NVGs and hearing protection on the market, the AirFrame also sports the ability to be reconfigured based on the mission at hand.
Add-ons include AirFrame Chops, Ears, and rails.
If you need the best and can afford the cost – it’s hard to argue with Crye Precision.
mount for a camera or optics. It also has bungee strips for attaching lightweight hook-sided devices like battery packs and lights.
What is a Tactical Helmet?
Tactical (or tac) helmets are exactly what the name suggests: helmets designed to provide protection in combat situations.
The tactical helmet, like most tactical gear, had its origins in the military and is now also used widely among law enforcement.
Leather helmets were used in combat situations starting in ancient times, but the modern tactical helmet really grew from the “steel pots” of the early twentieth century, which were designed to protect troops from shrapnel but not from gunfire.
Modern helmets are made of lighter materials like kevlar, carbon fiber, and impact-resistant plastic and are often designed to protect the wearer from gunfire. They have padding for comfort and fit and are shaped to be as effective and ergonomic as possible.
Modern tactical helmets can also be used with countless interchangeable devices, including night vision optics, cameras, lights, audio equipment, communication devices, and more.
Tac Helmet vs. Ballistic Helmet vs. Bump Helmet
Let’s talk about a couple of other terms that you may hear used to describe tactical helmets: a ballistic helmet and a bump helmet.
As I said, many, but not all, tactical helmets are designed to withstand gunfire. These types of tactical helmets are referred to as ballistic helmets. However, they are normally only rated for pistol-caliber hits.
Bump helmets, on the other hand, are a type of tactical helmet designed to protect the wearer from the impact of bad things, such as falling debris, shrapnel, and other harmful stuff. They are not rated for gunfire of any kind. They also provide a convenient platform for mounting things like NVGs, hearing protection/communications, etc.
The advantages of a bump helmet are ease of use, comfort, and weight. They also make for nice training aids since they are radically cheaper than ballistic helmets. In a combat situation, these helmets are sometimes worn by paratroopers, pilots, and drivers.
Why You Might Want One
The first reason a civilian may want a tactical helmet is the same reason why a civilian may want a lot of different kinds of military gear: prepping.
If you want to be prepared for anything in an emergency situation, a ballistic helmet will provide you with the protection you need against attackers, looters, and super intelligent gun-wielding zombies.
If you’re more concerned about natural disasters, a bump helmet will keep you safe during tornadoes, hurricanes, and seismic events.
On a similar note, a tactical helmet is also a huge advantage in the event of a home invasion. A ballistic helmet will protect your head, while night vision optics will help you see what your assailant can’t.
There are also reasons to have a tactical helmet that aren’t “just in case” type situations.
Hunters may appreciate the video from a helmet-mounted camera, whether for the scenery and wildlife or for the impressive kill shot it captured. And if night hunting is legal in your area, night vision optics in your helmet also make safely hunting and navigating the woods at night much easier.
Tactical helmets can also provide an extra layer of protection from a hunting accident or from a fall from a deer stand.
Speaking of home maintenance, a helmet is an essential safety device for ladder-top home maintenance, like trimming tree branches, cleaning gutters, and replacing siding or windows. Tactical helmets have the added advantage of accessories like face shields, hearing protection, and filters.
Tactical helmets are also great for sports like climbing, mountaineering, biking, base jumping, and more, especially if you’d like to film your adventures or have a hands-free lighting option.
Choosing the Best Tactical Helmet Type
I’ll be the first to admit that a tactical helmet can be a bit pricey, but this is not the time to sacrifice quality for the price. Your helmet is responsible for protecting your brain, after all.
With that in mind, there are a few features you’ll want to pay special attention to when choosing a tac helmet.
The first thing you’ll need to decide is what type you need.
PASGT
PASGT stands for Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops and is pronounced: “pass-get.” These helmets were standard-issue for the US military from the early ‘80s to mid-2000s.
They’re made of ballistic aramid fabric and a phenolic resin system with an outer shell consisting of 19 layers of Kevlar. They provide protection from both ballistic projectiles and shrapnel.
MICH/ACH
The MICH (Modular Integrated Communications Helmet) was designed to improve upon the PASGT, and the ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet) is an improved version of the MICH.
These helmets are made from advanced Kevlar, protecting the wearer from handgun shots as well as ballistic projectiles and shrapnel. An improved four-point retention system, as opposed to the PASGT’s chinstrap, provides greater comfort and improved protection from impacts.
ATE/High Cut/Maritime Cut/FAST
This style of helmet goes by many names: ATE (above the ear), high cut, and maritime cut, but no matter what you call it, it’s the cutting edge in tac helmet technology.
The ATE helmet was originally developed for maritime special ops and, as the name suggests, is cut higher on the sides to prevent water catching in the ear cups during high speeds. This higher cut also means that this helmet offers less protection but greater visibility and easier use of communication devices.
ATE helmets are usually made from Dyneema, a lightweight but incredibly ballistic resistant specialized composite material. Some ATE helmets are made from the same aramid Kevlar as the MICH, which offers greater protection but also greater weight.
Degree of Protection
The manufacturer of any helmet should be able to provide the detailed results of NIJ-required testing.
A few results to focus on are resistance to penetration, back-face deformation, fragment performance, and blunt impact resistance.
Resistance to penetration is how well your helmet stands up to gunfire. For ballistic protection, you want a helmet that’s rated NIJ Level IIIA, which means it offers protection from 9mm, .357, and .44 Magnum.
Back-face deformation occurs when a helmet is hit with a projectile and the opposite side bulges outward causing blunt trauma. 9mm (1,400fps) BFD should average less than 25mm in all locations.
Fragment performance is basically the same as resistance to penetration, but with bullet fragments instead of bullets. Your helmet should stop bullet fragments at a speed of at least 2,400fps.
Blunt Impact performance is exactly what it sounds like and should average less than 150g over 14 drops.
You may also want to look at compression testing, especially for a bump helmet, and element testing to make sure your helmet won’t be weakened by the environment in which you live or use it.
Accessories & Other Features
Your helmet should be comfortable enough that you’ll actually want to wear it. That means it should fit properly, not be too heavy, and not rub uncomfortably.
It should also have a secure retention system that will keep it firmly in place, even against a strong impact.
You’ll want to make sure your tac helmet can be used with any accessories that you’ll need to use.
Choose a helmet of whatever color you’ll need the most. You can always spray paint the helmet or use a cover if you need to change the color.
FAQs
What is a tactical helmet?
A tactical helmet is a helmet designed to protect your head in combat situations. It has its roots in the military but is now also used within the law enforcement community as well.
Can civilians buy tactical helmets?
Yes, civilians can buy tactical helmet and many people chose to do so for personal protection and prepping purposes.
What accessories can I add to my tactical helmet?
Accessories like night vision, lights, communications, and helmet covers can all be added.
What features make for a good helmet?
When purchasing, look for things like comfort, good fit, accessory compatibility, and protection against penetration
How much do ballistic helmets cost?
Prices for helmets vary depending on a lot of factors like the materials used to make it, protection level, and even the brand. On the low end, bump helmets cost as little as $70. On the high end, helmets can cross over $1,000.
What's the difference between a ballistic or tactical helmet and a bump helmet?
A ballistic helmet is rated to protect the wearer from gunfire while a bump helmet is designed to protect the wearer from debris and impacts.
Final Thoughts
Do you need a tactical helmet? Probably not. But better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. And at the end of the day, don’t let some asshole on the internet tell you what you need or don’t need.
Do you want a tactical helmet? Why? Once you decide on the tactical helmet for you, you’ll need some NVGs for it! Check out our hands-on review of the Best Night Vision Goggles!
24 Leave a Reply
There are a number of sound arguments for using NVGs, having ballistic head protection, body armor, and using them to your tactical advantage — particularly living in an rural environment when it might take law enforcement hours to respond. Is it overkill to own these in an urban area? Perhaps… if you’re living in a metropolis or city, but even in the suburbs, having gear like this makes clearing your house much less risky.
The increased lawlessness of our country, thanks to the politicians and monsters like George Soros, have left us competing for our safety with career criminals whose decades as guests in the prison gladiator academies make it difficult to face armed, determined numbers of military-age home-invaders. Yes, we’re forced to take every advantage — be it training, firearm, and/or ballistic protection. If you can do that saving money, using only a flashlight and firearm, I wish you all success. I’m going to use every possible advantage from gear, training, and a dedicated effort to be proficient to stack the odds in my favor. YMMV.
Will the Lancer helmet accept a Wilcox G24 or other standard mount? If not, it seems like a more expensive equivalent to a bike helmet with Velcro and a duct tape mounted flashlight.
The problem with wearing these helmets is the public comparing the tacticoolness of the headgear vs the presence of abs of the wearer.
Seems all the folks who would never consider volunteering for the job will trash talk all those who accept the risk.
Convince me I'm wrong.
Anyway, after I cut down the old PASGT with an air saw in a water bath and make it a high cut, I already have a helmet cover picked out for it - a Trapper fur cap with ear flaps. Just gut the insulation and slip it over.
Less insults is the intended result. Nobody is gonna look twice if some old geezer is out in the woods wearing that.
Well guys the best thing you can do period is place your trust in Jesus Christ and prepare for His return. Everything that's happening right now has been predicted by the Bible. Ph and saints will have weapons far more powerful than an AR 15. The reason nations are besting their "swords" into plowshares is because the military of heaven (other dimensions) will be far too powerful for any earthly military to resist.
Keep in mind that heaven had weapons long before humanity did. See Genesis 3:24 in the Bible. Then read Psalms 149:6-9.
Yes, and the Dinosaurs did not really exist!
used ACH helmets are $200 or less on ebay. PASGT kevlar helmets are $50 or less. Right now.
You're welcome.
According to the specs on the Team Wendy website, the weight of the Exfil LTP "complete system" is just a little bit lighter than the Exfil Carbon (1.59 lbs vs. 1.66 lbs, respectively). Hmm.
Oh great, an article on helmets written by a guy who has never been in the military and/or ever worn a helmet professionally. Please teach us how to protect ourselves mr.civillian!
You're so cool. I wish you could teach us.
But, but...he LARPs! ;)
attack the argument, not the person. is there anything he wrote that is lacking or inaccurate?
"well, no, but he's a civilian!"
interesting 'yardstick' you use to measure folks assessment of products, very interesting.
I don't know if it always been so or perhaps it is current news coverage. I've lost faith in our government, our dollar, our press and perhaps more important OUR PEOPLE-and they vote.
I was there... cynical of just about everything. even now, i battle to maintain and develop my hope in others because, if not, i will become part of the problem.
surely you remember the principles our country was founded on and from Whom they stem from; faith in Him will not lead you wrong.
a big part of our issues, problems, battles lie within each individual. get the right mindset then fight the righteous fight. also, within our govt, press and our people are folks just like you. don't give up on them/us; we need you.
The writer has SWAT Commander under his bio. I am fairly certain that he has worn his helmet in the line of duty. It would also be far more likely that he has worn it for active scenarios than the average military member. Only a small percentage of military members have actually used their gear in active combatant scenarios. Most in combat zones remained within the safety of the FOBs and have only worn their gear due to indirect fire or transport to and from the FOB. Unless they were patrol or door kickers, the vast majority are not truly "combat" tested. Either way, I wouldn't be rushing to judgement without checking the writers experience.
Avoid HHV like the plague. They take forever to ship your order and will cancel it against your wishes if you dare speak out against them on social media. Waited 13 weeks and had my order cancelled cause I hurt their feelings.
Ordered a helmet from them Friday and I’m getting it Monday no hiccups or delays
I have issues with falling after being in a horrific car wreck and got a brain injury. Multiple falls later i have MRI's showing 4 more brain injuries. I need a helmet to protect my head and prevent more brain injuries. Im assuming that i need a "low-threshold energy" protection.
Does the Lancer Tactical Bump Helmet provide that type of protection? Or is the protection i need? Or must i go up to Team Wendy?
Working with America Epilepsy Society they advise that i use the MICH 2000 style helmet. I have been searching for weeks for a USMC LWH MICH 2000 with the side rials and front mount (color: coyote brown).
Would these 'OneTigris', 'Atairsoft', type paintball, airsoft pellet helmets work as well in protecting my head?
This is all new to the epilepsy society.. They say there "helmets" (no way i will wear those!) Or "real" motorcycle, football, hockey helmets. Those are all over $100. What many people dont know is the protective matterial inside gets depresed to absorb the 'shock' It does not come back so you have to toss the helmet away. These tactical helmets can take out pads and replace them. Saveing a lot of money to people like me having fall issues. If i have to wear a helmet. It better be a cool one!!!
Sorry thing is long , wanted you to have full picture. Thanks for any help you can give me protecting my head from more brain injuries.
Steve
This list is god awful
Seriously, two ballistic helmets are from the same company, who would spend 600+ on a bump helmet, that's some serious air soft. Team Wendy and Ops Core make a bunch of different types of helmets but they are twice as much as HHV. Check out military surplus stores and eBay to get a 2nd hand ballistic helmet, some models you can replace the pads. I decided on the HHV Gen II but I am find it hard to be patient only one month in. Body Armor typically has made to order wait times regardless.
I ordered from HHV and waited just like you did. I got my order in just fine. Just waiting on their helmet covers to come back into stock.
Great article! Thank you, this will help me in my purchase.
I am the coordinator for the Manistee County CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) and we can be tasked with performing search and rescue and/or damage assessment after a natural (or man made) disaster. When we complete Basic CERT Training, we are issued some very basic (read cheap) equipment and supplies to help us perform whatever mission we may be tasked with. The helmet we are issued is the least expensive, least comfortable, and least versatile "construction crew" looking helmet I have ever had the misfortune of putting on my head. Obviously CERT does not need ballistic protection but good bump protection and the ability to mount lights and/or cameras is ideal. Something between the Lancer and Team Wendy would be nice.
Thank you for the hard work you do!
If you have a recommendation for something between the Lancer and TW helmets, we'd love to hear about it!
Join the discussion...Unfortunately, I have not found anything in between them. I believe Rothco is making a helmet like the Lancer Tactical at about the same price point and Opticsplanet.com has another brand that I have never heard of but it only has a rail on one side and no front optics mount but is predrilled for one.