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August 27, 2024
What is a bump helmet?
Bump helmets – sometimes known as tactical helmets – are specialized headgear designed to protect against blunt impact, debris, and low-velocity projectiles. They are ideal for tactical training, search and rescue missions, extreme sports, and other activities where head protection is crucial but ballistic threats are minimal.
Discover the construction, advantages, and limitations of tactical bump helmets in this complete guide. Whether you're an operator, a police officer, or just intrigued by protective gear, understanding the basics of helmets can be valuable.
Unlike traditional combat helmets, bump helmets prioritize protection in scenarios where ballistic threats are less common. Their strength lies in environments prone to head injuries stemming from falls, collisions, or airborne debris.
What is a military bump helmet? In military contexts, a tactical bump helmet plays a crucial role in upgrading soldier safety during training exercises, non-combat missions, and peacekeeping operations. They offer reliable protection against expected hazards.
To dive deeper into the realm of military gear, explore our guide on the body armor employed by the military.
Tactical bump helmets are great for activities that demand reliable safety gear. Grasping the features of a tactical helmet can guide you in making an informed choice.
Crafted from high-impact resistant polymers, non-ballistic helmets boast durability without the added weight of ballistic helmets. Key features include ventilation systems for comfort, adjustable straps for a secure fit, and integrated rail systems for mounting accessories like cameras and lights. The interior padding provides superior protection with an ability to absorb shocks and impacts.
Two main styles of helmets are common: high cut and low cut. High cut helmets, which have less coverage around the ears, provide greater mobility and are more compatible with communication headsets or hearing protection.
Low cut helmets, on the other hand, offer additional coverage and protection around the ears, making them suitable for environments with higher impact risks.
For more insights on the different types of headgear, check out our guide on High Cut Vs. Low Cut Helmets.
Bump tactical helmets offer a wide array of advantages that make them a preferred choice for those not in combat situations.
In contrast to traditional ballistic helmets, the best bump helmets are much lighter, which significantly reduces fatigue during prolonged use. While an average non-ballistic helmet weighs just between 1 to 1.5 pounds, bulletproof helmets typically weigh around 3 to 4 pounds. This difference often makes bump helmets a better choice for extended wear.
Bump helmets are crafted with the wearer's comfort in mind. Central to this focus are high-quality materials such as foam padding, memory foam, and moisture-wicking fabrics for the helmet pads.
These materials not only provide cushioning and support but also help regulate temperature and moisture. The foam padding absorbs impact forces, while memory foam molds to the wearer's head for a personalized fit. Additionally, moisture-wicking fabrics draw sweat away from the skin
These helmets are compatible with various accessories, thanks to the integrated rail systems. With your bump helmet setup, you can easily attach night vision devices, communication gear, or cameras. In fact, with similar nvg mounts, padding system, and arc rails, you probably won't notice a visual difference between a ballistic helmet and non-ballistic helmet.
Are bump helmets bulletproof? No, one major drawback is their lack of bulletproof capability. Unlike ballistic helmets made to stop firearm projectiles, bump helmets focus on a lightweight construction.
While they protect against blunt force trauma, debris, and low-velocity impacts, they do not shield wearers from bullet penetration. Despite this limitation, bump helmets remain valuable for people in scenarios where ballistic threats are less of an issue.
Deciding on the best tactical bump helmet depends on your specific needs and the activities you participate in. They are designed for non-ballistic protection, offering a lightweight and versatile option. But are bump helmets worth it?
For many users, the answer is an absolute yes. They provide protection against impacts and debris without the added weight of ballistic helmets. They are ideal for tactical training, search and rescue missions, extreme sports, and other activities where head protection is crucial but ballistic threats are minimal.
These helmets offer great protection for various tactical and non-combat scenarios. Their lightweight construction, comfort features, and versatility make them an ideal choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. While they don't provide ballistic protection, their ability to safeguard against blunt impacts and debris means they remain a vital piece of gear for many.
Ready to enhance your tactical gear? Make sure to explore our selection of helmets and other gear to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Written by Andrew Schuler
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January 13, 2025
Get an in-depth look at the helmets used by the military. Learn about their construction, protective capabilities, and the technology that keeps soldiers safe.
January 02, 2025
December 20, 2024
I bought the carrier, and it arrived within a few days. I was happily surprised by the low weight, and rugged construction of the Alpha Carrier. I put a level 4 plate in both front and back, both of which fit like a glove. The sizing was easy to adjust, and the one size fits most is true of this product. Huge adjustment range. Very impressed by the Fortis Alpha Carrier, along with everything I have ever ordered from Premier Body Armor. Great job, guys!
After wearing my full body armor for 30-years, it isn’t conducive to under cover plain clothes work that I do now and it is so hot to wear during the summer. I put this armored t-shirt on and it fits like a glove, but is not uncomfortable. The first day I wore it alone, but the second day I wore a form-fitting micro fiber tank top under it and it really felt good. I actually had no wetness because the bottom top absorbed it. It was a warm day, but nothing like sweating intensely with full body armor. I ordered a second carrier shirt to switch out for washings. With my gear on and plain black tactical shirt, I am so much more comfortable on my feet for long hours. I should have bought this years ago.
As someone with extensive experience wearing a wide variety of body armor in the military, law enforcement, and physical security industries, I know firsthand the challenges of balancing protection, comfort, and concealment. The Everyday Armor T-Shirt has exceeded my expectations on all fronts.
This is by far the most comfortable body armor option I’ve ever worn. The lightweight design and breathable material make it ideal for all-day wear, whether you’re on duty or just out running errands. It’s so well-concealed that it doesn’t print, even under a fitted shirt, making it perfect for discreet protection without sacrificing mobility.
What sets this apart is how seamlessly it integrates into daily life. Unlike traditional armor that feels bulky or restrictive, the Everyday Armor T-Shirt feels like part of your everyday wardrobe while still providing reliable peace of mind.
If you’re looking for everyday protection that doesn’t compromise comfort or discretion, this is an outstanding choice. Highly recommend!
PBA is awesome. I own 3 backpack panels from them. I own panels for Vertx ReadyPack, Eberlestock Fade Sling, and now the Fade Adapt.
The Fade Adapt panel is huge. Fits snug into the backpack and covers a lot. Mainly gonna be used for traveling and camping. I feel comfortable carrying it knowing I'll have a huge panel to hide behind.
Thanks again PBA for the great products.
When it comes to armor, if you want something light so you can be quick and/or carry more ammo, med supplies, etc., and still want the best protection… get these. Sure they’re not level 4… but they cover the most likely rounds to be used in an urban environment. Quit thinking Level 4 is the best and get these, you’ll be thoroughly impressed. Hell even my 10 year old loves them! Would be great for their backpack too.
Love this new little sling with the panel in it beautiful exactly how it describe on the website
Have always worn soft armor, generally in outside carrier working law enforcement and military. Needed to up protection from rifle fire. Did not want heavy steel plates. Polyethylene the ticket for weight and protection. The Fortis III+ very nice. Light, 3.4 lbs each, multi curve, comfortable, have protective coating, fabric, nice. I put them in a Agilite K19 carrier. Overall more comfortable, easier to move than the outer carriers and soft armor I have worn before. Weight is crucial in extended wearing of vest, especially when adding pouches, ammo, radio, etc. These plates really help in reducing weight and no compromise on protection. The price was a factor along with quality and protection level. These plates nailed it, don't know how you could get anything better for this price. Company is legit, background In manufacture sold me also. You will not be disappointed in the Fortis III+ multi-curve plates.
I’ve put it to use on the job as an AEMT and it does it’s job well. It keeps me at more of a peace of mind knowing I have a bit of protection going to calls and it doesn’t get in the way of my patient care.
First, I want to thank the customer support team that helped me with my return. The first sling pack was way too small. Y’all suggested another one that was larger. It was a perfect size and I love the way it hugs my body. Second, love the way your body armor fits in the sling pack. It’s a perfect pairing. Now let’s talk about the combo. This has to be one of the nicest packs I have ever bought. Honestly I didn’t know much about the Viktos brand. WOW!! Very nicely constructed. I love the fact I can put in my side x side while out on the ranch. It holds everything that might be needed.
Again thank you to everyone. Pease keep up with quality products like this. You have a customer for life! Thank you!
James Moffat
Caballo, NM
Fantastic Product - Armor Fits like a Glove. Also, it was very convenient to get the bag with the armor.
While it inherently seems a little bit silly to armor a fanny pack, premier and VertX are a perfect match as always. And silly or not, now I've got an extra layer of 3A soft armor to throw over one of my children, sling across my chest, etc if ever needed. It's big enough to protect vitals, and my gun rides in the socp pack as well. This is a great setup for short walks and hikes, or summertime on the boat
By far the most concealable body armor I own. I am 5’11 and 155 lbs. I got a small and was so worried that the armor wouldn’t be concealable since I’m on the thinner side, but I was dead wrong. I had a hoodie ready to throw on in order to show it concealed further, but there would be no point. You can’t see anything with this size SMALL under-armor polo on…that’s actually impressive premier. Great job.
I have wore the product multiple times now and have received many compliments on the fact that you can’t hardly tell I’m wearing it. Also it is very comfortable in comparison to other similar products on the market. I’m very happy with the product.
Fit as described quality products from a American family company.
Great shirt. Very discrete to wear. Proud to support and American company