Why are there so many different types of bulletproof helmet

When it comes to ballistic or bulletproof helmets, the number of options available to you can be daunting, especially when you're shopping for a helmet for the first time. However, it all depends on protecting your right priorities.

Ballistic helmets, also known as "ballistic helmets," are designed to protect the wearer's head from trauma and damage during combat, shooting incidents, or other types of attacks. Ballistic helmets come in a variety of shapes and materials to suit different needs.

Here, we'll help you familiarize yourself with the types of ballistic helmets so you know how to choose the best one for you.

Different Types of Ballistic Helmets

What is a ballistic helmet?
A ballistic helmet is a type of tactical helmet designed to protect the wearer's head from attacks such as ballistic impact (a bullet hit) and blunt impact (blunt impact).

Military or SWAT teams often use ballistic helmets in tactical situations, not only for protection but also to mount communications equipment and other accessories such as cameras and lights.

Ballistic helmets are often worn with a bulletproof vest for complete protection.

Bulletproof - not "bulletproof"

Despite this common term, no material or coating used in tactical gear is technically bulletproof. If the bullet hits the vest or helmet, the gear is weakened - especially if the second hit is close to the area of the first hit.

Bulletproof gear doesn't make you invincible, but it does give you a fighting chance. Without it, you would most likely die if you were shot in the head or vitals. With it, your odds of survival are higher if distance, bullet speed, etc. are in your favor.

How are ballistic helmets rated?
High-quality ballistic helmets are tested to the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards and given a rating indicating what type of ammunition they can protect against.

If you're in the market for bulletproof gear, it's important to fully understand the NIJ ratings.

The most common helmet classes are NIJ IIIA, NIJ III, NIJ IV.
NIJ armor protection class

What are the types of helmet shapes?
There are four main types of ballistic helmets in use today, each with its own story and trademarked design and shape.

The creation of Kevlar, an ultra-strong, lightweight synthetic fiber, has led to the development of the Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) ballistic helmet. The helmet uses a protective shell made of Kevlar fiber, so it is called a "Kevlar fiber helmet".

You can recognize the PASGT helmet by its signature shape, which features a lip above the brow and low cutouts above the ears. Its shape doesn't differ much from the M1, aside from a taller temple cut.

PASGT is the original standard for modern head protection, but fittings cannot be installed without carefully drilling into the Kevlar fibers, which could compromise the integrity of the shell if done imprecisely.

PASGT helmets also tend to move forward over the eyes in certain positions, creating dangerous distractions and limiting vision.

Despite this, US troops in Afghanistan are still equipped with many PASGT helmets, and they are now using an updated lighter, and more comfortable version called the "Lightweight Helmet" (LWH).

The PASGT ballistic helmet is best for you if you...

Good basic head protection is required.
Accessories such as night vision goggles (NVG) or communication equipment do not need to be installed.
have a budget.
MICH/ACH ballistic helmet
Traditional MICH Level IIIA Ballistic Helmet

Modular Integrated Communication Helmet (MICH)
The Modular Integrated Communications Helmet (MICH) ballistic helmet was born to improve the weight and modularity of the PASGT helmet.

A side-by-side comparison of PASGT and MICH shows that the latter is much more technically ready. Side rails on the MICH allow for easy mounting of accessories such as communications equipment and NVG shields.