Introduction
Probably the first accessory I really 'really' wanted
when I started airsofting was the fritz style helmet...
similar variations are named KEVLAR, SWAT,
PASGT, M88, which are pretty much all the
same... This versatile helmet allows to install standard
camo covers which would turn it into a helmet for any kind
of modern scenario... if you're reenacting WWII, you could
also wear it when you play German without feeling out of
place.
Price
There are many variations and brands of this type of helmet
and they all go for about 40 euros. There is a STAR helmet
that goes for 25 euros but I've heard that they come with
no lining inside, and thus, they wobble around your head
as you walk or run. Unfortunately, I don't know the brand
of the helmet featured on this article since it didn't show
anywhere, but I can tell you that I bought it at Campobase
(item#
AC-0744). They also have it in olive drab for those
who want a more military look.
Value
The helmet price is right. There are many out there, but
I doubt any would compare to this one in quality. Here in
Athens I've seen beat up used military helmets anywhere
from 50 to 120 euros... absolutely ridiculous.
Construction
It is so well built that I was impressed when I held it.
It's built with hard ABS plastic and it's masterfully crafted
in and out. Thought this is a REPLICA, meaning NON-BALLISTIC,
it is so strong and so well padded that it feels like a
biker's helmet. You really don't want to get a real helmet
for airsoft purposes... they are heavy and you will have
a killer neckpain the following morning. We play for fun,
leave the discomfort to the real soldiers... take it easy
on yourself and get one of these light non-ballistic models.
The strap clips are strong and the chin supporter is made
of some kind of rubber that sticks to your skin. Remember
that roll of foam I had leftover from the Sansei
SG5 Mask? Well, it came in handy since I used a piece
on the inside to prevent it from sticking to the chin, which
can become bothersome after you sweat for a while.
If I could describe the inside look and feel of the helmet
with only one word, I would say "BMW". 'nuf said.
Weight
Approximately 550 grams. But it's so comfortable that when
you wear it, after a minute you forget you even have it
on.
Balance
As long as you get the right size for your head (as I did),
this helmet will fit you like a balaclava. It will stay
put no matter how much you jump, run or turn, it will not
dance about. The padding all around it is very good that
it would safely protect you if you fall and hit a rock with
your head. Like I said before, it's so good it feels like
a bikers helmet.
 |
Weaknesses
Pretty much there's only one weakness...
the inside padding is glued to the helmet itself,
so you cannot pull it out to wash it, and believe
me, you will NEED to wash it. Your forehead will start
sweating crazy after a few minutes, and that's if
you're just standing around.
My proposed remedy? Wear a bandana.
That will prevent the helmet's padding from excesive
sweating and will last longer without needing a wash.
|
Conclusion
Despite it's only weakness, which is only a minor one, I
strongly recommend this particular helmet. When you buy
it, you'll be glad you did.
 |
Credits/Acknowledgments
This review was brought to you
by this website's administrator, Alex Alvarez (aka TripleA).
July 19, 2005. Athens, Greece. |
