The Best Tactical Airsoft Helmet Setup: Ultimate Guide
As your passion for airsoft deepens, you'll likely accumulate a variety of gear—gloves, slings, holsters, and much more. Among these essentials, an airsoft helmet stands out as a must-have item. Not only do helmets provide a cool aesthetic, but they also serve crucial protective functions against BB impacts and head bumps. Additionally, they offer a convenient platform for mounting useful accessories like night vision goggles or cameras. This comprehensive guide will help you personalize your airsoft helmet for optimal performance and style.
Different types of Tactical Airsoft Helmet
When selecting an airsoft helmet, it’s essential to understand the different types available, as each serves a unique purpose. The most common choice is the bump helmet. These non-ballistic helmets are designed solely for protection against bumps to your head kind of like a bike helmet, making them ideal for airsoft. They are lightweight and comfortable for extended wear. a fun fact is that US army Delta Force in the 90's used re-purposed skateboard/ snowboard helmets. Our friend SPARTAN117GW has a great video that breaks down the helmet in that kit that you can watch HERE If you're leaning towards a ballistic helmet for added protection, remember that they tend to be heavier, which can be a disadvantage during lengthy gameplay sessions.
Most helmets available on our website are designed to fit most head sizes, often featuring adjustable straps for a customized fit via a rotary adjustment dial. This dial lets you fine-tune the chin straps and padding, ensuring your helmet is secure and comfortable without sacrificing mobility.
Another critical factor in your selection is the rail system. Currently, there are two primary types: the maritime rail found on Ops-Core style tactical helmet and the M-Lok rails seen on Flux style helmets. Understanding which rail type your helmet has is essential, as it affects compatibility with various attachments. Choosing the right rail can enhance your helmet’s functionality, enabling you to customize it with a range of tactical accessories.
Adding Personal Touches to Your Tactical Airsoft Helmet Gear
Once you’ve chosen your helmet, it’s time to infuse some personality. Adding a helmet cover is a great start; it can dramatically alter the color and pattern of your helmet. For instance, if you own a black helmet and prefer a tan or multi-cam style, outfitting it with a helmet cover will help you achieve that look without needing to buy a new helmet. These covers can also offer additional camouflage in different environments, further enhancing your stealth in gameplay.
Patches are another excellent way to express yourself. Whether you choose team insignias, identification patches, or humorous designs, they can add character and individuality to your helmet. Most helmets come equipped with Velcro patches on the sides and back, allowing for easy attachment and removal. This feature makes it simple to switch out patches based on your mood or the specific game scenario.
Ear protection is also worth considering when setting up your helmet. Although optional, it can be beneficial depending on your location and the sounds you may encounter, such as pyrotechnics and gunfire. Long-term exposure to loud noises can lead to hearing damage, so investing in quality ear protection is wise. If you prefer not to wear traditional earplugs but still want to shield your ears, consider side plates or a mandible attachment, which provide coverage but not soundproofing.
Moreover, many ear protection headsets can connect to radios, enhancing communication on the field. This feature is especially useful in Milsim games, where staying connected with your team is crucial for strategy and coordination. A reliable comms setup can be the difference between victory and defeat, allowing your team to respond quickly to changing conditions.
Mounting Night Vision Goggles to Your Airsoft Helmet
Now for one of the most exciting additions—night vision goggles (NVGs). These devices can give you a significant advantage in low-light conditions, allowing you to see where others cannot. The primary method for attaching NVGs is through the NVG shroud located on the front of your helmet. It’s crucial to research compatibility, as different NVGs may require specific mounts. The L4G24 mount is commonly used for newer helmet models and supports modern NVGs like the PVS14 and PVS31.
To power your NVGs effectively, consider using an external battery pack. These packs can extend the operational time of your goggles, ensuring you won’t be left in the dark during critical moments. Typically, these battery packs are mounted at the back of the helmet, which helps balance the weight of the NVGs, preventing your helmet from becoming front-heavy. This balance is especially important for maintaining comfort and stability while running or maneuvering during gameplay.
Additionally, ensure that the wiring from the battery pack is neatly secured and does not interfere with your movements. This attention to detail can prevent accidental disconnections and enhance the overall functionality of your setup.
Additional Accessories for Your Airsoft Tactical Helmet
Beyond the essentials, there are numerous optional accessories that can enhance your helmet setup and improve your gameplay experience:
Flashlights:
Attaching a flashlight to the side of your helmet can be invaluable for navigating in the dark without the need to raise your weapon. This feature is especially useful when searching for items or objectives during gameplay, such as dropped magazines or hidden objectives.
Cameras:
Mounting a camera allows you to record your gameplay, providing valuable insights into your performance and capturing memorable moments. This footage can be useful for both improving your skills and sharing your experiences with others, whether through social media or video platforms.
Goggles:
Having an extra pair of goggles mounted on your helmet can be convenient and visually appealing. This redundancy ensures you’re always prepared, especially if your primary eye protection becomes damaged during a game.
Masks and Gas Masks:
These can offer additional face protection and can usually be easily attached to the helmet rails. Masks can protect against BBs and environmental hazards, while gas masks can offer full facial coverage for scenarios involving smoke or chemical agents.
Final Thoughts
Setting up your airsoft helmet is not only about protection but also about personal expression. As you customize your helmet, always remember the importance of research; ensure that your accessories are compatible with your helmet model. Don’t hesitate to add your unique flair, whether through custom colors, patches, or innovative attachments. A well-equipped helmet can enhance your airsoft experience, providing both safety and tactical advantages—especially when outfitted with NVGs.
Ultimately, your helmet is more than just safety gear; it’s a vital part of your airsoft identity. By taking the time to understand your options and customize your setup, you can significantly enhance your performance on the field. We hope this guide has been informative and helpful, and be sure to check out our other articles on our website for more airsoft tips and tricks!