Guns & Gear
August 15, 2023
When considering the enhancement of your ballistic helmet with night vision capabilities, here are the foundational accessories you will need to get started.
- Night Vision Goggles (NVGs): These devices are the cornerstone of night vision technology. NVGs amplify ambient light, allowing users to see in near-total darkness. Modern NVGs come with various generations, each offering improved image quality and performance.
- Helmet Mounts: Helmet mounts, also known as shrouds, provide a secure platform for attaching NVGs to the ballistic helmet. These mounts are designed for stability and adjustability, ensuring that the goggles stay in place during rigorous activities. Many ballistic helmets come with the shroud already attached.
- Night Vision Mounts: Think of this as the adapter between NVDs and your helmet shroud. A versatile mount offers quick-release functionality, enabling seamless transitions between helmet-mounted devices and handheld operation. Its flip-up design ensures that your night vision binoculars can be easily moved out of your line of sight when not in use.
- Counterweights: Night vision goggles can be weighty, which can cause strain on the neck during extended use. Counterweights attached to the rear of the helmet help distribute the weight evenly, reducing discomfort and fatigue.
- Illuminators and IR Lights: In situations where complete darkness is essential, IR illuminators and lights emit infrared light that is invisible to the naked eye but visible through night vision devices. They provide added illumination without compromising stealth. You can use weapon-mounted IR illuminators or one that mounts to the rail on your helmet.
- Helmet Covers: Helmet covers not only protect the helmet's surface but can also serve as a platform for attaching camouflage, patches, or additional accessories. Some covers are designed with built-in cable management systems to keep wires from NVGs organized and out of the way.
- Battery Packs and Power Management: Night vision devices require power to function. Battery packs and power management solutions are essential for extended operations, ensuring that your gear remains operational throughout missions.
- Ear Protection: Various companies make ear protection that will fit with your helmet. Some can mount to your helmet rails via adapters, and some can be worn underneath the helmet.