When it comes to tactical operations, military use, or range shooting, having the right gear can make all the difference, and this includes a high-quality shooting helmet. Designed to provide head protection during shooting activities, these helmets not only shield from impacts but also serve as platforms for mounting accessories like night vision devices, cameras, and communication gear.
The best shooting helmets are lightweight, durable, and equipped with attachment systems to support tactical equipment. Whether you’re a military professional, a law enforcement officer, or a civilian shooting enthusiast, choosing the right helmet is crucial for both safety and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the 10 best shooting helmets of 2024, highlighting their key features, protection levels, and performance capabilities.
1. Ops-Core FAST SF Super High Cut Helmet – Best Overall Shooting Helmet
The Ops-Core FAST SF Super High Cut Helmet is widely regarded as one of the best shooting helmets on the market. This super high-cut tactical helmet is designed for elite military and law enforcement units, providing both protection and superior versatility. Made from lightweight ballistic materials, the FAST SF helmet offers protection against shrapnel and fragmentation while maintaining a comfortable fit for long periods of use.
One of the standout features of the FAST SF is its modular design. It comes with integrated shroud mounts for night vision devices and a vented liner for increased airflow. Additionally, the helmet features the ARC Rail system for attaching accessories like lights, cameras, and communication devices.
Key Features:
- Super high-cut design for maximum mobility
- Lightweight ballistic materials for superior protection
- Integrated shroud for NVG (night vision goggle) mounting
- ARC Rail system for tactical accessories
- Vented liner for enhanced comfort
Best For: Military professionals, tactical operators, and law enforcement looking for the best high-cut shooting helmet with advanced features and protection.
2. Team Wendy EXFIL Ballistic Helmet – Best for Comfort
The Team Wendy EXFIL Ballistic Helmet is another top-tier option for shooters who value comfort without compromising protection. This ballistic helmet is designed to provide superior protection from fragmentation and ballistic threats while offering maximum comfort during long periods of wear.
The EXFIL Ballistic Helmet features an innovative CAM FIT retention system that provides a secure, comfortable fit with a dial adjustment system. The Zorbium foam liner enhances impact protection and comfort, and the EXFIL Rail 3.0 system allows for the attachment of tactical accessories, including lights, cameras, and ear protection.
Key Features:
- Lightweight ballistic protection
- CAM FIT retention system for a secure fit
- Zorbium foam liner for impact protection and comfort
- EXFIL Rail 3.0 system for accessories
- Available in various colors and sizes
Best For: Shooters and tactical professionals who need a comfortable ballistic helmet with high levels of impact protection and accessory attachment points.
3. MTEK Flux Ballistic Helmet – Best for Durability
The MTEK Flux Ballistic Helmet stands out for its unparalleled durability and multi-layer shell construction, which offers superior protection against ballistic threats. Built for elite military and law enforcement units, the Flux helmet features a high-cut design that allows for increased mobility and comfort during tactical operations.
This helmet is equipped with ARC rails for mounting tactical accessories and is compatible with communication headsets, night vision devices, and other critical gear. The Modular Suspension System (MSS) ensures a comfortable fit, while the ballistic shell provides excellent impact resistance and fragmentation protection.
Key Features:
- Multi-layer ballistic shell for enhanced durability
- High-cut design for increased mobility
- Modular Suspension System (MSS) for comfort
- ARC rails for accessory attachment
- Compatible with night vision and communication devices
Best For: Users who need a durable and rugged shooting helmet that provides top-tier protection and versatility in tactical operations.
4. Crye Precision AirFrame Helmet – Best for Airflow
The Crye Precision AirFrame Helmet is designed with unique features that prioritize airflow and ventilation, making it ideal for use in hot and humid environments. This two-piece helmet design separates the helmet into front and rear sections, allowing air to flow between them, keeping the wearer cool during extended operations.
Despite its lightweight design, the AirFrame helmet offers ballistic protection and is compatible with communication headsets, NVGs, and other accessories. The modular design also allows for easy customization with different components, such as ballistic ear protection and face shields.
Key Features:
- Two-piece design for superior airflow and ventilation
- Lightweight construction with ballistic protection
- Compatible with NVGs, communication headsets, and accessories
- Modular design for customization
- Comfortable and adjustable fit
Best For: Tactical operators working in hot climates who need a shooting helmet with enhanced ventilation and airflow for comfort during extended missions.
5. Revision Military Batlskin Caiman Helmet – Best for Multi-Platform Use
The Revision Military Batlskin Caiman Helmet is designed for multi-platform use, offering compatibility with a wide range of tactical accessories and protective components. This high-cut ballistic helmet features a composite shell that provides excellent protection against fragmentation and ballistic threats while remaining lightweight for increased mobility.
The Caiman Helmet is compatible with the Modular Head Protection System (MHPS), which allows users to add components like a mandible guard, visor, or ballistic applique for enhanced protection. The helmet also includes ARC rails for mounting tactical gear and communication systems, making it an excellent choice for modern combat operations.
Key Features:
- Composite shell for lightweight ballistic protection
- Compatible with Modular Head Protection System (MHPS)
- High-cut design for enhanced mobility
- ARC rails for accessory attachment
- Multi-platform use for advanced customization
Best For: Military professionals and tactical operators who need a versatile multi-platform helmet that supports various protective components and accessories.
6. Hard Head Veterans ATE Ballistic Helmet – Best for Budget
The Hard Head Veterans ATE Ballistic Helmet is a top choice for those who want a high-quality shooting helmet at a more affordable price. This Advanced Tactical Helmet (ATE) is designed to offer ballistic protection at a fraction of the cost of other premium helmets, making it accessible to a broader range of users.
The ATE helmet features a high-cut design that provides excellent mobility and is compatible with tactical accessories, including NVGs, communication headsets, and cameras. The helmet is made from DuPont™ Kevlar® fibers, ensuring durability and impact resistance while keeping the helmet lightweight and comfortable.
Key Features:
- DuPont™ Kevlar® shell for ballistic protection
- High-cut design for mobility and comfort
- Compatible with NVGs and tactical accessories
- Budget-friendly price without sacrificing protection
- Lightweight and durable construction
Best For: Shooters and tactical users who need a budget-friendly ballistic helmet that offers protection and compatibility with essential tactical gear.
7. Lancer Tactical BUMP Helmet – Best for Airsoft and Recreational Use
For those looking for a shooting helmet designed for airsoft, paintball, or recreational shooting activities, the Lancer Tactical BUMP Helmet is an excellent option. While this non-ballistic helmet doesn’t offer ballistic protection, it provides a lightweight, durable shell designed to protect against bumps and impacts during training or recreational shooting.
The Lancer Tactical BUMP Helmet features ARC rails for attaching accessories like cameras or lights and is compatible with communication headsets. Its lightweight design and adjustable suspension system ensure a comfortable fit, making it perfect for extended use in airsoft or training scenarios.
Key Features:
- Lightweight non-ballistic BUMP helmet
- ARC rails for accessory attachment
- Compatible with communication headsets
- Adjustable suspension system for comfort
- Ideal for airsoft, paintball, and training use
Best For: Airsoft players and recreational shooters looking for a lightweight BUMP helmet that provides impact protection and attachment points for accessories.
8. HHV Tactical BUMP Helmet – Best for Communication Integration
The HHV Tactical BUMP Helmet is designed with communication integration in mind, making it one of the best options for shooters and tactical professionals who rely on comms gear during operations. This non-ballistic helmet is lightweight and features rails and shrouds for mounting communication systems, NVGs, and tactical accessories.
This BUMP helmet offers excellent protection against impacts during training or recreational shooting activities, and its hook-and-loop panels allow for easy customization with patches or additional components. The helmet is designed for comfort, with an adjustable fit and padding to ensure long-term wearability.
Key Features:
- Lightweight BUMP helmet for impact protection
- Rails and shrouds for communication systems and NVGs
- Adjustable fit with padding for comfort
- Hook-and-loop panels for customization
- Perfect for tactical training and recreational use
Best For: Tactical professionals who require a BUMP helmet designed for easy communication integration and accessory mounting.
9. EmersonGear Tactical BUMP Helmet – Best for Versatility
The EmersonGear Tactical BUMP Helmet is designed for versatility, offering a lightweight, impact-resistant shell that can be used in various tactical and recreational scenarios. This non-ballistic BUMP helmet features integrated side rails for attaching lights, cameras, or other accessories, and its shroud is compatible with NVGs.
The EmersonGear helmet includes a fully adjustable suspension system that allows for a custom fit, ensuring comfort and security during long hours of use. It’s ideal for airsoft, paintball, and training exercises, providing protection against bumps and impacts while supporting tactical gear.
Key Features:
- Versatile BUMP helmet for impact protection
- Integrated side rails and NVG-compatible shroud
- Fully adjustable suspension system
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Ideal for airsoft, paintball, and tactical training
Best For: Users seeking a versatile BUMP helmet that offers impact protection and compatibility with tactical gear for various activities.
10. FMA Tactical BUMP Helmet – Best for Customization
The FMA Tactical BUMP Helmet is known for its high level of customization, making it ideal for users who want a BUMP helmet that can be tailored to their specific needs. This helmet is equipped with side rails and a shroud, allowing for the attachment of various tactical accessories, including cameras, lights, and NVGs.
With its lightweight, non-ballistic design, the FMA Tactical BUMP Helmet provides impact protection during airsoft games, tactical training, or recreational shooting activities. The helmet’s customizable fit, combined with its hook-and-loop panels, makes it easy to personalize with patches and additional gear.
Key Features:
- Lightweight BUMP helmet for impact protection
- Customizable with side rails and shroud
- Compatible with NVGs and tactical accessories
- Hook-and-loop panels for personalization
- Adjustable fit for long-term comfort
Best For: Tactical users and recreational shooters looking for a customizable BUMP helmet that supports a wide range of accessories and tactical gear.
What to Look for When Buying a Shooting Helmet
When selecting the best shooting helmet for your needs, it’s essential to consider several important factors to ensure both safety and performance:
1. Ballistic Protection vs. BUMP Helmets
Ballistic helmets provide protection against fragmentation, shrapnel, and ballistic threats, making them ideal for military or law enforcement use. BUMP helmets, on the other hand, are non-ballistic and offer protection against impacts, making them suitable for training, airsoft, and recreational activities.
2. Comfort and Fit
Your helmet should be comfortable for extended wear, with an adjustable fit and padding to reduce pressure points. Helmets with customizable suspension systems or retention systems like the CAM FIT or Modular Suspension System offer better comfort during long missions.
3. Weight and Mobility
Choose a lightweight helmet if you need greater mobility and comfort, especially if you plan to wear the helmet for long periods. High-cut helmets are popular for their balance between protection and freedom of movement.
4. Compatibility with Tactical Gear
Look for helmets with ARC rails or shrouds that allow for the attachment of essential tactical accessories, such as night vision devices, communication systems, lights, and cameras.
5. Durability and Material
Ensure the helmet is made from durable materials, such as Kevlar® or composite shells, which provide excellent impact and ballistic protection while remaining lightweight.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shooting helmet is crucial for ensuring both protection and performance during tactical or recreational activities. From the Ops-Core FAST SF Super High Cut Helmet, known for its versatility and high-end features, to the budget-friendly Hard Head Veterans ATE Ballistic Helmet, there is a wide range of options available to suit various needs and budgets.
Whether you’re looking for a ballistic helmet for military use or a BUMP helmet for airsoft and training, the 10 best shooting helmets of 2024 offer a blend of durability, comfort, and functionality. Consider your specific needs—whether it’s ballistic protection, communication integration, or customization—to find the perfect shooting helmet for your tactical operations or recreational activities.