HELMET SETUP
Helmets are a personal piece of kit.
Everyone’s head shape is different. Everyone’s use case is different. What feels perfect for one person can be miserable for another.
Here’s how we look at helmet setups and what we recommend before you spend money.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
A helmet setup does not need to be overbuilt. Get the helmet, fit, pads, and ear pro right first. Then add the extras that actually make sense for how you plan to use it.
BUMP VS. BALLISTIC
If you’re on a budget, a bump is usually the move. They’re lighter, more breathable, and more comfortable for long nights. Just remember: bumps are for impact protection, not rounds.
Ballistic helmets are heavier and warmer, but built to provide ballistic protection. If your use-case justifies it, they’re worth the trade-off.
HELMET SIZING
Measure your head. Do not guess based on hat size.
Use a soft tape measure around the widest part of your head.
If you are between sizes, size up.
HELMET PADS
Stock pads are usually not the best option.
Upgraded pads can make the helmet fit better, feel better, and stay more stable under night vision.
EAR PRO
If possible, integrate ear pro into your helmet setup.
It protects your hearing, helps balance the helmet, and keeps everything more stable and streamlined.
BUILD FOR COMFORT
BATTERY PACKS & COUNTERWEIGHTS
Battery packs are useful, but most users do not need one.
For most helmet setups, a simple counterweight or Mohawk style pouch with spare batteries makes more sense.
The goal is balance. Night vision adds weight to the front of the helmet. A counterweight helps pull the helmet back into a more comfortable position.
LIGHTS
A small admin light is one of the most useful upgrades you can add to a helmet.
Red light is useful for quick admin tasks. White light is useful for general work. IR light can help with navigation and identification in very low light.
A SureFire M340V or similar light on a Thyrm-style mount is a strong option.
WHAT MATTERS ON A HELMET SETUP
The helmet is the platform. The device is only one part of the setup. The mount, shroud, j arm, pads, retention, ear pro, counterweight, and lights all affect how the helmet feels and performs.
MOUNT
The mount matters. A sloppy mount creates wobble and frustration.
A quality mount helps keep the device stable, and easier to use.
J-ARM
The J-arm connects your device to the mount.
Dovetail setups are generally preferred over older bayonet style setups because they are stronger and more secure.
PADS & RETENTION
Pads and retention are what make the helmet wearable.
If the helmet shifts, causes hot spots, or gives you a headache, the rest of the setup will feel worse than it should.
EAR PRO
Ear pro is not just about hearing protection.
It can also help stabilize and balance the helmet when integrated correctly.
COUNTERWEIGHT
Night vision adds weight to the front of the helmet.
A counterweight helps pull the helmet back into balance and makes longer use more comfortable.
LIGHTS
A helmet light gives you quick task lighting without needing to pull out a handheld light.
White, red, and IR capable lights can all have a place depending on the setup.
AVOID THESE
BUYING THE HELMET FIRST
Know what device, mount, and accessories you plan to run. The helmet affects everything.
IGNORING SIZE
Wrong size, bad fit, poor comfort, usually go together.
CHEAP MOUNTS
You get what you pay for. Don’t compromise on the part holding your night vision.
NO COUNTERWEIGHT
A front heavy helmet gets old fast. Balance matters more than people think.
WE CAN HELP YOU BUILD IT RIGHT
Tell us what device you’re running, whether you want bump or ballistic, and whether you need ear pro, lights, or accessories.
We’ll help you build the right setup the first time.
WHAT TO TELL US
Your device, helmet size, bump or ballistic preference, mount type, ear pro needs, and whether you want lights or accessories.
WHAT WE HELP WITH
Fit, comfort, balance, mount compatibility, accessory choices, and avoiding wasted money on parts that do not make sense for your setup.