As a soldier, one of the most important pieces of equipment you wear is your helmet. The Army helmet not only protects your head but also provides you with ballistic protection against different types of threats. But, have you ever wondered what level of protection your Army helmet provides? In this article, we will discuss the levels of ballistic protection, the standards that Army helmets follow, and what you need to know to stay safe in the field.
Understanding the Levels of Ballistic Protection
The levels of ballistic protection are determined by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), which is the research, development, and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice. The NIJ has established six levels of ballistic protection, from level I to level IV, with level IV being the highest level of protection.
- Level I: This level provides protection against .22LR and .380ACP lead bullets.
- Level IIA: This level provides protection against 9mm and .40S&W bullets.
- Level II: This level provides protection against 9mm and .357 Magnum bullets.
- Level IIIA: This level provides protection against .44 Magnum bullets and fragmentation.
- Level III: This level provides protection against rifle rounds such as 7.62mm NATO and .308 Winchester.
- Level IV: This level provides protection against armor-piercing rifle rounds such as .30-06 M2AP and .338 Lapua Magnum.
Understanding Ballistic Helmet Standards
Now that you understand the levels of ballistic protection, let’s talk about the standards that Army helmets follow. The Army helmet follows the Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) standard, which was developed in the early 2000s. The ACH standard has been modified over the years, and now the most current standard is the ACH Gen II.
The ACH Gen II standard requires helmets to meet certain criteria for ballistic and non-ballistic impact protection. The helmet must also meet specific requirements for retention systems, suspension systems, and accessories.
What You Need to Know to Stay Safe in the Field
When it comes to staying safe in the field, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, always make sure that your helmet is properly fitted and secured. A loose helmet can move around and leave your head vulnerable to injury.
Second, be aware of the limitations of your helmet. While the Army helmet provides excellent protection against most types of threats, it is not invincible. It is important to understand what your helmet can and cannot protect you against.
Finally, make sure that you are using the correct level of protection for the situation you are in. If you are going into a high-risk area, you may need to upgrade your helmet to provide better protection.
Related: What Speed is a Motorcycle Helmet Good for?
FAQs:
Q: Can a level IIIA helmet stop a rifle round?
A: No, a level IIIA helmet is designed to stop handgun rounds and fragmentation only.
Q: How often should I replace my Army helmet?
A: The Army recommends replacing your helmet every five years, or after any impact that could have damaged it.
Q: What is the difference between ballistic and non-ballistic impact protection?
A: Ballistic protection is designed to protect against projectiles such as bullets, while non-ballistic impact protection is designed to protect against impacts from objects such as rocks or shrapnel.
Q: Can I upgrade my Army helmet to a higher level of protection?
A: No, Army helmets are designed and tested to meet specific standards and cannot be modified to provide a higher level of protection.
Q: Can I wear a non-Army helmet while in the military?
A: No, Army personnel are required to wear approved Army helmets while on duty.
Q: How much does an Army helmet weigh?
A: The weight of an Army helmet depends on the model and level of protection, but most helmets weigh between 2 and 4 pounds.
Conclusion
Understanding the levels of ballistic protection and the standards that Army helmets follow is essential for staying safe in the field. The Army helmet follows the ACH Gen II standard, which ensures that the helmet meets certain criteria for ballistic and non-ballistic impact protection. By properly fitting and securing your helmet, being aware of its limitations, and using the correct level of protection for the situation, you can stay safe and protect your head against different types of threats.
Helmetslab is a website that focuses on providing in-depth reviews and information about different types of helmets, including motorcycle helmets and others helmets. I am writing a post with proper research on the info that helps helmet users.