Best Tactical Helmets Reviewed: Top Ballistic & Bump Options

Tactical helmets come in two main types: ballistic (NIJ-rated to stop bullets and shrapnel) and bump (built only for impact protection). Both work as a platform for night vision, comms, and ear protection. Leading picks include the Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen3, Premier Fortis, HHV ATE Lite, Team Wendy LTP EXFIL, and Crye Precision AirFrame.

Key Takeaways

• Best overall: Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen3 – American-made, veteran-owned, with top testing standards
• Best value: Premier Body Armor Fortis – strong features at a mid-range price
• Best lightweight: HHV ATE Lite – NIJ-rated and just 2.3 pounds
• Best budget: Team Wendy LTP EXFIL – solid bump helmet under $500
• Best premium: Crye Precision AirFrame – modular and combat-proven for professionals
• Choosing ballistic or bump comes down to your protection needs and budget

Back in Afghanistan, we had a saying: "There are two types of operators – those who’ve cracked their head on a Humvee hatch, and those who will soon." That first skull-smack taught me fast why helmets matter. Run night vision, guard against threats, or just try to avoid concussions in chaotic moments—the right helmet becomes a close friend real quick.

Tactical Helmet Comparison Chart

Helmet Model	Ballistic Rating	Weight	Sizes	Colors	Price
Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen3	NIJ Level IIIA	2.9–3.4 lbs	S–XL	Black, OD Green, Tan, Multicam	$799
Premier Body Armor Fortis	NIJ Level IIIA	3.0+ lbs	S/M–2XL	Black, Green, FDE	$574
Hard Head Veterans ATE Lite	NIJ Level IIIA	2.2–2.5 lbs	S–XL	Black, OD Green, Tan, Multicam	$1,199
Team Wendy LTP EXFIL	None	1.6 lbs	M/L, XL	Black, Coyote	$403
Crye Precision AirFrame	NIJ Level IIIA	2.3–2.75 lbs	M–XL	Black, OD Green, Tan	$1,226

How We Reviewed the Best Tactical Helmets

For this review, we drew on research plus input from veterans and experts who’ve worn these helmets in the field. We looked hard at protection, comfort over long wear, weight, how well accessories fit, and overall value.

We paid extra attention to NIJ standards and company testing. Studies show a good helmet fit can cut head injuries dramatically, with some research finding ballistic helmets may lower fatal head wounds by up to 40% in combat. One study from the International Journal of Impact Engineering even showed how helmet design shapes ballistic performance across impacts.

Instead of trusting marketing lines, we looked at real data on back-face bulge when hit, blunt force protection, and comfort ratings from actual wearers.

Best Tactical Helmets Reviewed

Crye Precision AirFrame – Best Premium

The Crye Precision AirFrame is often seen as the top tier for headgear. Built for elite units, it’s designed to give max protection without dragging you down. The base helmet can be upgraded with AirFrame Chops and Ears for more coverage.

What makes it stand out is the balance because it provides serious protection, yet still light enough for long missions. It’s designed to improve ventilation compared to traditional full-shell helmets, which matters more than most people realize. . Research shows heavy helmets cause more neck strain and heat fatigue. A recent study in the Fashion and Textiles journal even found helmet weight has a direct link to muscle strain during military work.

Price: $1,226

Specs

• NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Weight: 2.3–2.75 lbs
• Sizes: M, L, XL
• Colors: Black, OD Green, Tan
• Made in USA

Features

• Modular system with attachable Chops and Ears
• Strong vent system to cut heat
• Works with all NVG mounts
• Shell shape tuned for ballistic performance

Pros

• Proven in combat by top units
• Great balance of weight and protection
• Can be customized for different jobs
• Comfortable for long wear

Cons

• Most expensive on the list
• Sold through limited dealers
• Add-ons raise the price even higher

Team Wendy LTP EXFIL – Best Budget

The Team Wendy LTP EXFIL is the go-to bump helmet for search and rescue crews, training, and anyone watching costs. For the price, the quality and comfort are better than many helmets that cost more.

This one isn’t ballistic, but it’s rock-solid as a base for night vision, comms, or lights. The CAM FIT system locks it down tight so it won’t shift during fast moves. The padding makes it easy to wear all day without the hot spots that cheaper helmets give.

Price: Usually around $400–$500 depending on configuration.

Specs

• No ballistic rating (impact protection only)
• Weight: 1.6 lbs
• Sizes: M/L, XL
• Colors: Black, Coyote
• Made in USA

Features

• CAM FIT system for secure hold
• Zorbium foam padding for impacts
• NVG shroud included
• Side mounting points built in

Pros

• Half the weight of ballistic helmets
• Very comfortable for all-day wear
• Made in America
• Great first step for NVG setups

Cons

• No bullet or shrapnel protection
• Fewer size options
• Limited color range

Hard Head Veterans ATE Lite – Best Lightweight

The Hard Head Veterans ATE Lite does something rare: full NIJ ballistic protection in a helmet as light as some bump models. Built in Sweetwater, Texas, it shows off American craftsmanship with no shortcuts.

Its edge comes from the Micro Lattice padding, which breathes and lets air move freely. That helps fix a big problem and that is the heat buildup. Studies point out that heat inside helmets lowers focus and adds fatigue. If you need protection for long missions, this lighter build makes a real difference in neck strain and comfort.

Price: $1,199

Specs

• NIJ Level IIIA ballistic rating
• Weight: 2.2–2.5 lbs
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Colors: Black, OD Green, Tan, Multicam
• Made in USA

Features

• Micro Lattice padding for airflow and comfort
• A3S Lite night vision mount
• M-LOK mounting slots
• Quick-release chin strap

Pros

• Lightest ballistic helmet in our list
• 100% American-made
• Better airflow than standard helmets
• Full accessory support

Cons

• Higher price tag
• Still heavier than bump helmets
• Not widely available everywhere

Premier Body Armor Fortis – Best Value

The Premier Body Armor Fortis gives you true NIJ-certified protection without draining your savings. What grabbed us was the comfort features which are the things you usually only find in pricier helmets.

Its star feature is the ratcheting cable at the back. With gloves on, you can still tighten or loosen it in seconds. The padding is anti-microbial, which stops the nasty helmet smell from building up. For anyone needing solid ballistic protection under $1,000, the Fortis is a smart buy.

Price: $574

Specs

• NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Weight: ~3.0+ lbs
• Sizes: S/M, L/XL, 2XL
• Colors: Black, Green, FDE
• Made in Thailand

Features

• Ratcheting back adjustment for quick fit
• Anti-microbial padding
• Accessory rails included
• NVG shroud ready

Pros

• Strong value for the price
• Easy one-hand fit adjustment
• Fits large heads (up to 2XL)
• Comes with rails and shroud

Cons

• Heavier than premium helmets
• Imported, not American-made
• Finish feels less polished than higher-end models

Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen3 – Best Overall

The Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen3 hits the sweet spot of protection, comfort, weight, and price. That balance is why it’s our top overall pick. Built by veterans for demanding use, the design reflects real-world lessons and tough testing that goes past standard requirements.

What makes the ATE Gen3 stand out is comfort over long wear. The Micro Lattice padding system gives better airflow and cuts down on heat. Less heat means less fatigue and more focus. Research shows that modern padding not only makes helmets feel better but also absorbs and spreads energy in a way that reduces injury risk. Add M-LOK rails, and you can attach gear easily without extra bulk.

Price: $799

Specs

• NIJ Level IIIA rating
• Weight: 2.9–3.4 lbs
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Colors: Black, OD Green, Tan, Multicam
• Made in USA

Features

• A3S Lite night vision mount
• M-LOK rails for accessories
• Micro Lattice padding system
• Quick-release chin strap

Pros

• Veteran-owned with direct combat background
• Testing goes beyond requirements
• Works with all standard accessories
• Strong customer service and warranty

Cons

• Costs more than entry-level models
• A bit heavier than the ATE Lite
• Popular sizes sell out fast

How to Choose the Best Tactical Helmet

Ballistic vs. Bump Helmets

The first step in picking a helmet is deciding if you need ballistic protection or just impact protection. That choice affects weight, cost, and comfort.

Ballistic helmets are built to stop bullets and fragments. Most are rated NIJ Level IIIA. That means they stop handgun rounds like 9mm, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum. As Wikipedia notes, modern designs have come a long way from early military lids. It gives protection against both blunt hits and fragments from blasts.

Key factors to check in ballistic helmets:

• Back-face bulge (how much the helmet pushes in when struck)
• Protection against fragments and shrapnel
• Resistance to blunt impacts from falls or strikes

Bump helmets are for impacts like falls or debris only. They don’t stop bullets. But they’re lighter—usually 1.5 to 2 pounds—and cheaper. Great for training, outdoor activities, or holding night vision without carrying extra weight.

The biggest plus with bump helmets is comfort. If bullets aren’t a concern, a bump helmet can be worn for hours with little strain.

Key Features to Consider

Fit & Comfort: If it doesn’t fit, it won’t protect. Look for strong padding and adjustable systems. Remember, head shapes vary—what works for someone else may not work for you.

Weight Distribution: Heavier helmets create neck strain, especially with night vision hanging forward. Some helmets let you add counterweights at the back to balance it out.

Accessory Compatibility: Most modern helmets include rails or mounts for NVGs, comms, lights, and cameras. Always confirm your accessories will fit.

Retention System: The chin strap needs to hold steady during hard movement. Better systems let you adjust with one hand and release fast if needed.

Material & Build: Premium models use advanced composites or aramid fibers to keep weight down. Lower-cost helmets often rely on heavier materials to hit the same rating.

After the Dallas and Baton Rouge police ambushes in 2016, many departments started giving ballistic helmets to patrol officers. The shift proved the value of added protection in high-risk encounters.

Meet the Experts

This article brings together insights from Pro-Armory’s team, built on years in the military, competitive ranges, and long hours in gun shops—backed by careful research and study online.

That mix gives us a clear view of how gear really works when the pressure’s on. The goal here is to share practical know-how, not just polished marketing lines.

Our combined experience, plus feedback from both military and law enforcement circles, has guided the recommendations you’ll find in this guide.

Final Thoughts

So, do you really need a tactical helmet? For most people, probably not every day. But there are good reasons to get one.

If you’re into night vision, a helmet is the most stable mount. If your work carries risk, ballistic protection can save your life. And if you’re training, even a bump helmet can keep you safe from hard knocks.

The point is to match the helmet to your needs. For light NVG use, a bump helmet like the Team Wendy EXFIL is lighter and cheaper. For full protection, the Hard Head Veterans ATE Gen3 delivers the best mix of safety, weight, and cost.

Never forget comfort matters too. A helmet that hurts to wear ends up sitting in the closet. Look closely at fit, padding, and weight—those matter just as much as protection level.

If you’re building or upgrading a helmet, start with correct fit and then work through mounts, cabling, and weight distribution — our Tactical Helmet Setup guide is a great step-by-step reference to get a combat-ready system dialed in.

Frequntly Asked Questions (FAQ)

What's the difference between ballistic and bump helmets?

Ballistic helmets stop bullets and fragments. Most are NIJ Level IIIA and stop common handgun rounds. Bump helmets only protect against impacts. Ballistic models are heavier (3+ lbs) and cost more ($500+). Bump models weigh 1.5–2 lbs and usually cost $250–400.

What level of protection do NIJ IIIA helmets offer?

They stop most handgun rounds like 9mm, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum. They also block shrapnel and fragments. They do not stop rifle rounds such as 5.56mm or 7.62mm. For that, you need plates or higher-rated armor.

Can you mount NVGs on a bump helmet?

Yes. Most bump helmets come with NVG shrouds that fit standard mounts. Their lighter weight makes them better for long NVG use since they put less strain on your neck.

How much do tactical helmets usually weigh?

Bump helmets: 1.5–2 lbs. Ballistic helmets: 2.2–3.5+ lbs. Adding NVGs, counterweights, or comms gear adds another 1–3 lbs.

Are premium helmets worth the price?

It depends on your use. For professional or high-risk jobs, lighter weight, better comfort, and extra protection are worth it. For casual training, mid-range helmets usually strike the best balance of price and performance.

About the Author

This article was created by the ProArmory writing team using current research and trusted sources like the Journal of Impact Engineering, Fashion and Textiles, and official defense publications. We also reviewed input from recognized firearm authorities including the ATF, NRA, and manufacturer data.

Disclaimer: This content is for education only. ProArmory does not guarantee protection beyond certified test results. Always train safely and follow proper procedures when using tactical equipment. Your safety is your own responsibility.