Ballistic helmets protect against various types of threats, including bullets and shrapnel. They are made from various materials, each with its advantages and drawbacks.
It’s a common misconception that dropping a helmet will damage the aramid fibers, but they are designed to endure powerful impacts. However, environmental exposure and physical misuse can affect their protective capabilities.
Table of Contents
Material
A ballistic helmet offers protection from different types of combat-based threats, including shrapnel and gunshots. It also protects the head against impacts and blunt trauma. The best bulletproof helmet is comfortable to wear for long periods. This way, the soldier can focus on his mission and not be distracted by discomfort or fatigue.
The armor used in a helmet is primarily composed of Kevlar and Twaron, which are Aramid fibers. These fibers are lightweight and super strong, making them ideal for body armor. The preforms are molded into a helmet shell using a compression molding process between match-metal dies.
This molding method is labeled RC for rapid cooling. It is shown that a change of 22 degrees in fiber orientation among 25% of the inner prepreg layers can significantly affect the ballistic performance of completely molded thermoplastic matrix composite (TPMC) helmets.
Design
Ballistic helmets are designed to withstand high-velocity projectiles, such as handgun bullets. They can also be used to protect against blunt trauma, including head injuries from collisions with walls, vehicles and clubbing of the head by fists or other weapons.
The design of a ballistic helmet is essential for comfort and safety. The more comfortable the helmet is, the more likely you will wear it for extended periods. This will help prevent fatigue and unnecessary distractions, which can harm your performance.
There is a common misconception that dropping a bulletproof helmet will damage its aramid fibers, thus diminishing its effectiveness. However, this is unfounded, as helmets are designed to withstand much more force than a drop.
Fit
When choosing a ballistic helmet, consider the level of protection you need and your risk tolerance. Whether you’re an outdoor wilderness enthusiast, a hunter, or a prepper, your safety is critical. Good quality body armor and a well-fitted helmet can protect you from blunt force trauma, including impact from bullets fired at close range.
Kevlar helmet is also lightweight and form-fitting, which helps improve comfort and reduce the likelihood of the helmet being knocked off during an impact. In addition, they can be customized with accessories like visors and air vents to suit your specific needs.
Kevlar helmets typically use UHMWPE or aramid fibers to create a lightweight shell.
Compatibility
The level of protection a helmet offers is an important consideration when choosing the best option for an individual. There are several types of ballistic helmets available, ranging from those that offer minimal protection to those that can stop high-velocity rifle bullets. The level of protection a helmet offers can also be affected by budgetary limitations, as these helmets can be more expensive than other options.
Military kevlar helmets are available in various sizes and designs, with some offering additional features such as air vents or rails for accessories. They can be customized to match the individual’s look with various paint options, including camouflage patterns. Depending on the helmet type, it can also be fitted with a visor for additional protection.
Maintenance
Ballistic helmets and body armor aren’t cheap, but taking proper care of them can help them last longer. Performing regular inspections and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance can make them more effective.
It’s important to avoid washing Kevlar because water can damage it. Instead, a damp cloth can remove dirt and dust from the surface. You can also use a soft brush for stubborn stains, but you should always hand wash the carrier and let it air dry away from sunlight.
It would help if you never reused Kevlar that has been shot because it can no longer stop bullets. Using a padded box or bag when storing your tactical helmet is also recommended if it gets bumped or dropped.