I ordered an Ops-Core bump from Arms Unlimited and they accidentally sent me one of the ballistic ones. I think I'd prefer a bump, but for $242, I'm not really complaining.
@@musicman1eanda lol!!! Buy the house and make sure the house needs a bit of work… then pull cash out to pay the “labors” you hire to bring it up to the wife’s expectations. add $3k on that “labor” number, and you are set for decent Gen 3 pvs14’s… I didn’t do this but….
Here is what i did for a bump helmet. My dad gave me one of his older ProTec skateboard helmets. I cut out some of the foam in the front, drilled in an nvg mount shroud, got some velcro on the helmet and attached a counterweight pouch with "mohawk" thing lol. Im working on attaching rails for earpro rn but so far this build has cost me less then 60 dollars and works great for me. The pro tec helmet already has really nice and comfortable padding and its kinda just a big canvas from there. It aint the best thing in the world but hey, if it works it works lol.
I found that my Team Wendy still wants to dig into my Asian temples, so I have a couple layers of that thin foam inside of it. You know, the foam you might use to wrap a piece of metal with or something. That stuff is perfect for making ultra-light buttstocks (when you take the rubber pad off, because it adds unnecessary ounces"), or padding a helmet.
@@James_Beeno lmao, literal fedposting. Rather, get a group of trusted friends together to train and to organize into a sort of minuteman group, just between people you personally know and trust, though. More effective, anyways as long as people take it serious.
The body temperature of possums are too low to carry rabies. Out of all animals, they also eat the most ticks by far. Great animal, have one that hangs out in my yard pretty often :)
@@jordanwerzinski1574 Figured. Thanks to more and more vets that are stepping into development and adaptivity of gear we are getting new products that serves the purpose and those are becoming available to us civilians. And who ever served i also thank them for their continuous service in this field.
It all depends on your unit and your mos. I was an 88m and old did my job in Korea and never really drove at all in the u.s in garrison or for training. I miss a lot of it
Overlooked but awesome is the Galvion Caimen. Super light and their rails are compatible with ARC rail accessories. It's not cheap though but my favourite bump.
Yes! I needed this. I’m about ready to get a nightvision set up in the next three months and I’m planning my selections. Please give us more hop. We need more info. 🤘💪
Nice to see all these cool add-ones. As an 0321 man years back, we didn’t have counter weights and super adaptable rail systems. Just thinking about those days is making my neck hurt. Great video, glad to see civilians as well getting great gear.
Great overview of the topic. I really appreciated the detail on the Avon helmet just as an example of all of the attributes to consider. I would like more info on specific helmets, covers, counterweights, etc.
I've honestly started running my helmet slick without rails lately. The mounts are extra weight, and I've had RAC arms fail in some sticky scenarios. I also don't like being tied to my helmet for discreet comms and hearing protection. I've started making my PPE all separated, I have a velcro loop one wrap headset cover and it interfaces with velcro in my helmet and keeps it pretty stable but I can also just run my helmet separately if I'm patrolling greenside or want to run light.
Nice set up, I run mtek carbon for comfort/weight. Pad arrangement is pretty customizable with OEM ones, but would be troublesome with running a band under the helmet. Tnvc mohawk has been pretty good as a counter weight accessory, and cable management with retainers on the sides. The bottom Velcro loops don't hold them well or as neatly. I use it to hold my AB Night vision battery pack, which I pack with 4 AA batteries. This helps with balancing my dtnvgs. Unity mark's for peltors are okay, sometimes I feel like I don't get a good seal with them for noise, trouble some especially when you also want to wear eye pro. Ops core amps are good for someone that wants one headset to run on a helmet/only headset, the ability to go back and forth to the desired is it's pro. Definitely helps to run nvgs close to your eyes as possible for balancing. However you'll sacrifice peripherals a bit if that's a concern. Big problem for me is nvg bounce. Bungies and other forms to keep tension for movement under nods seems to be an afterthought with many companies. Haven't found a good solution for that yet, just ok ones
I was a little sad he dismissed MTEK immediately just because of the MLOK rails. I run their Ballistic helmet and it is stupid light (2.2lb!) and comfortable, and nowadays there are plenty of MLOK accessories available for it from all the major players. The cost is the only real downside, they definitely have a Cadillac price tag, but they have Cadillac performance too.
@@paintballplayer700 problem I have with it is being unable to mount a vampire light like in the video. The unity mark mounting location for me provides comfort, however it blocks part of the mlok that I need to mount a light. I could just get the unity knuckle, but spending more money on helmet accessories is at bottom of my list
@@senorFrog2032 do you know about the Thyrm VariArc? That's how I run my Surefire light on my Flux, it's great. I do run the rear-mounted AMP ear pro with it. They have an MLOK specific version.
Would you think this is good bump if I just wanted it for a Pvs14, I wouldn’t be putting anything else in it no cover no light not even earpro, just the tube..? I’m kinda at a fork here cuz I want something decent but don’t need another TW bump or ops core
@@thesiths3875 It's pretty good. I like the mount on the mtek being an Actual piece of metal. Just putting a pvs wouldn't be horrible but you'd have to run the straps pretty tight since the carbon is stupid light and you don't want the helmet to shift while moving. The ops core might be a better option since I like their helmet ratchet system
What timing! I was watching through some older NVG videos last night. Its going to be a minute for me to buy any but the plan is getting into place. Thanks Hop!
I ended up finding tire weights at a local car parts store. They're small strips that breakaway into smaller squares I taped together once I got the right weight. Not a bad option, cheap.
I run a MICH-like helmet for over a decade now for duty use and the earpro is a good stabilizer ... Got a PGD-Arch (high-cut) for "reasons" and tried the option of helmet mounted earpro ... Didn't seem to fit snugly and there were times where it didn't keep tight against my skull. Went with having earpro on under the helmet separately and it works like a charm, keeps everything in place and i can quickly swithc between helmet on or off without needing to take earpro into account. Recently saw some clip about GBRS guys running theirs similarly so if it works for them it must be SCIENCE. Anyways, cheers and thanks for a entertaining/educational channel!
Love the N49. Not as good of a deal as it used to be, looks like the prices increased. I use the Agilite Opscore Maritime/FAST SF helmet cover on my N49, Medium cover fits my L helmet. I'd say it's a 99% fit, some of the velcro straps in the back don't make sense for the N49 but it works.
A video on mounting arms would definitely be helpful for newcomers to night vision. As a night-vision noob I like my surplus Rhino II arm since it's cheap ($80-100) and sports height adjustment (unlike the Rhino I). Plus an additional $70 can can buy a factory Norotos dovetail conversion.
I love my mtek, best helmet I’ve used. Running amps, s&s max mounted vampire head, prince mpls, pvs 31 battery pack, and helstar exo5. Can’t imagine needing to add anything else to the mlok ecosystem.
Yup PGD helmets are def a go if you want a ballistic helmet at half the price of an Ops-Core helmet, and if you can"t get a PGD helmet for whatever reason, get Ballistic Armor Co Gen 2 Combat Helmet, it's the same helmet made by PGD except rebranded.
If you want something for earpro and a bump helmet for under 500ish. Walker razors with an Opscore bump and legit Comtac helmet mounts work well. You have to force them in then tape the contact point, but they don't come loose and are super durable.
I just wanted to say I don't think I disagree as much with any other guntuber as i do you, but, I love your content and your ideals, I am trying to catch up on all the videos after subscribing lol Thank you and keep it up Hop!
There's a few companies around that modify ACH style helmets to modern high cut with rails and shroud. I'm thinking of going that route, as I got a couple LWH (basically an ACH/PASGT cut) for free; conversion work looks like it'll be in the price range of a cheaper bump, so I figure I might put these to use and maaaybe get some ballistic out of it, lol.
@@yuval5628 i cut my PASGT to a high cut, you can shoot the little ears you cut off with a 9mm and it doesn't penetrate also, the helmets are literally cut and drilled at the factory when they are made, but you don't complain about that do you?
@@yuval5628 From a purely physics standpoint, yes, shrinking the available surface area and putting holes anywhere in the material lessens the capability. However, that's true of modern helmets as well; the most protective helmet is one with no holes in it. But, seeing how it'd be hard to get one's head in a ball with no holes, much less mount things like nods to it, we settle for tradeoffs. On a more serious note, honestly it's not changing much. The surrounding material isn't really affected by cuts/drilling, that's just not how aramid composites work. The old logic of any modifications whatsoever remove all ballistic protection is fudd lore. You do lose surface area, but the goal is to make the helmet more usable, so like everything, it's a trade. Also at the end of the day, we're talking really old helmets here. I don't wear body armor for a living, like most people, so having a helmet is purely a training/larpin'/good to have for potential weirdness down the road thing. If I did wear armor for my day job, I'd be dropping cash on the best thing I could buy, not modifying something I got for free, lol
@@renosgarage7451 when it comes to the integrity of the factory sealed kevlar fibers, drilling some holes and cutting long sections off aren't comparable. Not criticizing your choices bud, so no need to get upset. i just think it's important for people to understand they will more than likely be degrading the level of protection they will have from that helmet if they choose to chop it up.
@@yuval5628 the factory fibers aren't even sealed underneath the rubber over molding, and the factory helmets are cut with a band saw, if you had any experience with composites you would know it's impossible to get a perfect piece with no over-molding, every part has to be trimmed after forming
The MSA Sordins definitely mount to a helmet well with the unity tac mods. Pain in the ass. Would recommend swapping out the internal retaining clips for 5/16" eclips and if you're not good with board soldering, have that done professionally. SAS Tactical in Florida did a fantastic job on mine.
Thanks Hop, was just waiting to hear what you said about the Sordins. Really wasn't ready to pull them apart to install on an HHV using Unity parts. Love the TCI/Sordins, now for the range only.👍
i got arc adapters for the amp arms and it it works on my HHV famously. I know its a little backwards rocking an HHV with amps but eventually planning to upgrade the helmet.
@@PerFecTD0P3B01 Hey thanks for the info. I'm thinking the DEHP/Sordins are a little "plump" in the ear cups to fit well with the HHV high cut as it isn't all that high compared to others. Every head is unique, as are set-ups. Probably an good excuse for my setup to upgrade with something comms ready anyway.
@@williamlane2126 it’s a little weird cause I have to go under the helmet slightly then out and back with the AMP arms. However once they are one they are comfy and don’t feel smooshed or anything. Just takes a little muscle memory to do and it’s nice having the extra rail space. Definitely worth spending the 20-30 bucks on the adapters for the HHV to put AMP arms on.
If you’re talking about the g69 mount they make, it’s awesome. Stows the nods much closer to your helmet and you can bring the nods a lot closer to your eyes. 100% worth the switch from an opscore mbs shroud and g24 to the g69 IMO
I dont think a counterweight is necessary for something like pvs14's but if youve got something like 7d's then i can understand. I dont have a lot of hours on 14's but i ran the fuck out of 7d's, also did some testing on pvs23's downrange. The 23's were binocular nvd's with thermal and used an external battery pack as a counterbalance, it was marginally more comfortable than the 7d's without counterweights, the night vision also failed in a couple weeks and needless to say, theres a reason it never made it to production.
@@g00gleisgayerthanaids56 Maybe not for short durations but if i had to pull an all nighter with a lid on my head staring through a tube especially on a patrol id want something to balance it out a little. I simply weighed my pvs14 plus wilcox mount and roughly matched that on my team wendy counterweight. Heck even on my Crye night cap i have the counterweight pouch thingy full of batteries just to offset it a lil. However i don’t own a ballistic helmet so i have no experience with those. 🤙
@@protectpersevere2030 i never had the option to add a counterweight, uniformity and all... The only times i wore nods for extended periods of time was when we pulled forcepro and rotated 6 hour guard shifts, i made good use of the .50 to support the weight... our night patrols were relatively short, compared to daylight operations so we really dont wear them for that long, and in the instant you get in a tic or extended firefight you get an adrenaline hit and the last thing on your mind is a sore neck. You do you though, if i had more hours on the 14's i might think differently, just the short time i got to use one was a world of a difference compared to the 7D's.
@@protectpersevere2030 lol, youre the one adding weight! A wuss wouldnt do that. One thing about the army is that sometimes you just learn to embrace the suck, lol, hard to fall asleep on guard if your neck is sore as shit! Take care man
My favorite and most underrated helmet is the Caiman Hybrid helmet. I like it A LOT more than my opscores, maybe it's my fat head. I have a 25" dome and need XXL helmets but the caiman always just fit my head and was way more comfortable than my opscore helmets ever were. I went through SO many different padding options for the opscore helmets too. I literally spent well over $400 on just different padding systems/options like the cloudline for example (Which didn't work cause they only have L/XL. So having an XXL ... Didn't work out lmao), ACH or Lux liner I cant remember, and so on... My opscores helmets were always just an endless money pit (I'm sure if I had a "normal" sized head, it would be less of a problem.) before ultimately finding the 4D liners on TNVC, those were actually not terrible.. But still even then, it wasn't that great. But with my caiman, I've never had to do anything with it. It's just been perfect right out of the box as far as comfort goes. Plus they're a lot less common. So, ya know. Everyones always like "WHAT HELMET IS THAT" kinda thing. Which is fun :)
Something to consider...If you are a motorcycle rider who values their face (full face helmet) you are likely going to more used to having the weight on your head.
I would love to see you break down mount options in the future. It's great to see somebody else rocking the LoSto. Button placement can be kind of annoying, but the LoSto and AKA2 are by far the most stable mounts I've used thus far. The infamous 'Wilcox wobble' just isn't present with any of Norotos' newer offerings.
Just put together my caiman that will be home to my first monocular. I have the comtac 3's on the opscore amp arms via the AXL link. You are right that it is a little odd in how it blocks the mics but it works well for my needs and the comtacs feel solid on my head with the amp arms still providing that helmet support on the ears you mentioned. In the future I may spring for amps themselves. The caiman rocks and it is super comfys out of the box, my only gripe is that the amp arms rail attachment is just a little small for the rail, I had to shim it with some tape to get them to lock into the rail properly. Aside from that I am really excited about my first helmet. thanks for all your guides so far!
Yup. Agree, slap their counter weight kit on, and in business. Run it slick (no cover) and let my 12 yr old camo paint it with some netting. Sloppy spray paint hands for the win!
Interesting to note that you can get a top of the line carbon fibre full-face MTB helmet for under $500, and that's designed for 60+km/h impacts, not to mention being about twice as much coverage.
Difference is once you start drilling holes into that helmet for mounts, rails, etc. you compromise the carbon fiber. Better off going with a bump helmet for less than $500.
A year late but a trick i figured out in the infantry without a counterweight: buy a 2nd set of pads and fill the entire front with the rectangles from 10 to 2. Helmet will still slump forward but the pads will prevent headaches
I currently run an EXFIL LTP, I love it so far, I have just a basic sandbag counterweight, along with a Wilcox G24 and J arm for my 14. my current issue is trying to figure out a good headset setup, I just run walker razors for the moment, and I need to remove most of the padding inside to be able to wear the helmet and the headphones, I think I’ll try to go with that comtac setup you have on your helmet or something similar to it, it looks fairly comfortable, plus I wouldn’t need to worry about properly fitting my helmet over the headset strap.
FYI, I've found the two best options for mounting ear pro to the Exfil LTP are the Unity Mark 2 and, if you're willing to deal with figuring out the adapters, the OpsCore AMP Arms with adapters for the Exfil LTP and for the comtacs (or whatever ear pro you are using). I have also tried headset under the helmet (hated it) and have tried the comtac mounts from team wendy (they were too loose to make a seal for me).
Where’s your beez cover man??? Good points about the outlines and breakup. Helmets are the FASTEST give away. Using the beez cover also works with natural vegetation and comes with “dreads” to tie into it that furthers your outline breakup. Definitely all good points as always
Used to run a converted s/M CVC helmet but recently switched to an ACH because I cant get the CVC to fit my medium sized head. And I tried basically everything - 4 point chin harness, multiple pad configurations, you name it!
Whats the main avantage of a bump helmet compared to a Crye nightcap? It seems to me that besides mounting earpro, you get about about 90% of the capability of a bump helmet, at about half the cost, half the weight, and with the option for a non-plastic NV mounting bracket. I mean there's also the looking cool part I realize, but that's what your ballistic helmet is for.
On the Arisaka website they tell you the weight for a complete flashlight as "body only" w/o the tail cap or batteries. Manufacturer/reseller specs on websites are either nothing, incomplete or like a tricky calorie serving on food box.
I've been seriously considering a hi-cut helmet from HighCom, they do ACH-style helmets in all cuts with a lot of options as far as protection and weight. PASGTs too, if you're into that. Anybody have experience with them?
I have a highcut Shellback Tactical helmet which is just a rebranded HighCom. It's a bit on the heavier side and the pads it comes with have problems sticking, but it's a really nice build quality with the built in wilcox mounting plate and the retention strap is really nice. I've outfitted it with everything I basically want and its a solid helmet to build from. Kinda wish I was issued with something of the like when I served.
Im sure a lot of guys talking about a ballistic helmet and no counterweight were probably veterans who plainly didnt have any real options to consider. I was issued pvs 23's to test while in afghanistan and it was a binocular nvd with thermal capabilities, because of this it had a battery pack that strapped to the rear of the helmet. It was heavier than running just pvs 7D's but was a bit more comfortable as there was less pressure on my forehead. Needless to say that after a couple weeks the nightvision didnt work anymore and thermals chewed through batteries in 20 minutes of runtime. Had to turn em in and was back on 7 fucking deltas again.
@@fury556 09-13, i was a medic attached to a heavy weapons company, in the rear most of us joes ran 7D's, doc never got priority nods. Everyone in the rifle companies had 14's though. We all got 14's downrange, except me, because i made a stink about wanting to test the fancy new nods which didnt last, at that point we just didnt have enough 14's anymore as we were breaking down and pulling out, handing over to anp/ana. It really didnt matter though, hajj didnt want shit at night, usually i could see better with natural night vision anyways.
Yeah, so, never used a counterweight during any of my 4 deployments. Running 14s on issued ballistic helmet. Many many all nighters both on foot and mounted. Guys scouting out front on the quads did use just bumps, though.
@@marcusborderlands6177 I’m 42, still run the same setup at home. At least for me it works, although I may be an outlier. If I want a button down shirt to wear a tie in, it has to be custom made due to my neck.. lol
@@AnonyMous-jf4lcthat's pretty impressive, but a counterweight has basically no downsides, and vastly improves helmet comfort. It's worth giving it a try.
Sam is still around, he just put a lot of his stuff behind patreon. It's incredible value for the money, IMO. When I do what he says, night vision is really easy.
Spent many hundreds of hours under a gentex with no counterweight. Proper pad placement and a well adjusted suspension make it wearable for a full night of patrols. Not to say they won't make it more comfortable though
re: ballistic helmets with counterweights... well, you really don't NEED to, it's true. i'd hazard a guess that a lot of the guys who say that are, like myself, crusty old grunts who... wait, you already accounted for masochism. carry on.
I really only got a PVS14 for the novelty of it, and i don't have much need of a full helmet setup. I ended up just getting a nightcap and it's worked decently, but i ought to get a counterweight. but what are your thoughts on it? i'll have to look into the helmets you mentioned however, i always appreciate info on things like this
The nightcap is a nice thing to have but I find it excruciating to wear even with a counterweight. The one that Crye sells to go with it is a pain in the ass to install but probably the best option.
I love my nightcap but don’t have a helmet either, worn for hours no issue, it takes a while to adjust. I made a counterweight out of wheel weights wrapped in 200mph tape but I never use it because it throws off the “low profile low weight” usefulness of the nightcap. Maybe I just have a thick neck😂
We need a review on just the u49 helmet. They are very few and far between. I’m about to buy one though. They seem to be an absolute spec monster for the price.
Whats the best camo to conceal in the night? Black , FDE, Ranger green?. For instance, a black or fde l4g24? If you use a cheap helmet cover will it be displayed by other nvgs?
Hey hop, have you ever used the eotech ir laser that replaces a a 512s battery pack? Ive been eyeing one for a bit but theres no good reviews out there. P.S. id buy the merch
I'll admit I spent a good few hundred on ops core arms and adapters to use them with my Peltors. But god damn they are so much better than the wire arms. Probably my head, I couldn't get the wires to work with my face.
Have you seen protection group denmark helmets? Theyre allegedly legitimate ballistic protection for a very reasonable price. Not Chinese. Definitely worth looking at.
@Wendigoslayer ive seen that. I will say the gen 2 is way better than the gen 1 i have but im still happy, especially at the price. As long as the ballistic performance match up.
Great stuff! I personally have an Ops-Core Fast SF Ballistic with Comtac 6 attached via ARC adapters. I too have a Unity Remora mount with a Surefire X300V; I probably should have went with the 3V Scout Vampire, but it is nice. Question for you, how are you recording color in NV? That is amazing; I would like to do this for training purposes at work. Thanks man.
Hey Hop! What helmet brand would you recommend for fat heads like me. I'm a American hat size 8 which is hard to find headgear for. Like to know the helmet is going to fit before I drop the coin
![ILLSLICK - KILLSHOT REMIX [FULL VERSION]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RIK8RrqIAzE/mqdefault.jpg)
Such an evocative image: two men, alone in the dark, pulsing their NODs at each other. It made my day, anyway.
I ordered an Ops-Core bump from Arms Unlimited and they accidentally sent me one of the ballistic ones. I think I'd prefer a bump, but for $242, I'm not really complaining.
Baller
Honestly just rock the ballistic, I think it’s meant to be…
God decided your head needed extra protection. Don't argue with His plan. Lol
BLessed
How tf did u get it for that cheap? Every bump by them costs a rack at least
This is the kind of thing I pay for
This is the kind of thing I feel bad not paying for
This is the type of thing that makes me spend more…
I need a video named, "How to convince your wife to buy night vision instead of using that money for a house down payment".
@@musicman1eanda lol!!! Buy the house and make sure the house needs a bit of work… then pull cash out to pay the “labors” you hire to bring it up to the wife’s expectations. add $3k on that “labor” number, and you are set for decent Gen 3 pvs14’s… I didn’t do this but….
Thank you for paying so that scrubs like me get free content. Not all heroes wear capes
Here is what i did for a bump helmet.
My dad gave me one of his older ProTec skateboard helmets.
I cut out some of the foam in the front, drilled in an nvg mount shroud, got some velcro on the helmet and attached a counterweight pouch with "mohawk" thing lol. Im working on attaching rails for earpro rn but so far this build has cost me less then 60 dollars and works great for me. The pro tec helmet already has really nice and comfortable padding and its kinda just a big canvas from there. It aint the best thing in the world but hey, if it works it works lol.
Welcome to the 1980s, prepare for the retro build
My problem with all these helmets is you have a hard time trying before you buy for size and comfort.
Yeah, measure twice order once. Or make friends with NV stuff.
@@Hoplopfheil on a totally unrelated topic, wanna be friends?
@@James_Bee fed
I found that my Team Wendy still wants to dig into my Asian temples, so I have a couple layers of that thin foam inside of it. You know, the foam you might use to wrap a piece of metal with or something. That stuff is perfect for making ultra-light buttstocks (when you take the rubber pad off, because it adds unnecessary ounces"), or padding a helmet.
@@James_Beeno lmao, literal fedposting. Rather, get a group of trusted friends together to train and to organize into a sort of minuteman group, just between people you personally know and trust, though. More effective, anyways as long as people take it serious.
I like the possum patch. The opossum is an underrated animal, the way Hop is an underrated guntuber
but any background on the "respect the trees" patch, based pine tree gang member?
@@paulizzgg176 mabs patch, go deeper into the hop lore and you will understand. Same with the possum patch, hop lore will explain it
The body temperature of possums are too low to carry rabies. Out of all animals, they also eat the most ticks by far. Great animal, have one that hangs out in my yard pretty often :)
After an entire 5 year enlistment...i wonder how much better the neck pain would be if I'd had a counterweight.
Same.
But don't you guys learn that kind of stuff in military?
@@jordanwerzinski1574 Figured. Thanks to more and more vets that are stepping into development and adaptivity of gear we are getting new products that serves the purpose and those are becoming available to us civilians. And who ever served i also thank them for their continuous service in this field.
It all depends on your unit and your mos.
I was an 88m and old did my job in Korea and never really drove at all in the u.s in garrison or for training. I miss a lot of it
I never even knew of counterweights when I was in I heard all about them from airsofters and tactical gear videos
Overlooked but awesome is the Galvion Caimen. Super light and their rails are compatible with ARC rail accessories. It's not cheap though but my favourite bump.
My favorite but extremely hard to find,
Love my ballistic!
I picked mine up at Own the Night in Albany NY, These are made up in Vermont which I think is pretty cool,
caimen ur mom
I recently ordered the Galvion Viper A3 High Cut. A very good ballistic helmet for a decent price.
Another incredible video. This is hands-down, the best gun tube channel out there. Hop is the man. I hope I get to meet him one day!
Yes! I needed this. I’m about ready to get a nightvision set up in the next three months and I’m planning my selections. Please give us more hop. We need more info. 🤘💪
Your channel is quickly becoming one of my favorites for educational firearm related content, keep it up homie
Nice to see all these cool add-ones. As an 0321 man years back, we didn’t have counter weights and super adaptable rail systems. Just thinking about those days is making my neck hurt. Great video, glad to see civilians as well getting great gear.
medal of honor 2010 might be one of the most underrated games ever made
Great overview of the topic. I really appreciated the detail on the Avon helmet just as an example of all of the attributes to consider. I would like more info on specific helmets, covers, counterweights, etc.
Really appreciate this write up, more in depth than any other I've seen.
I've honestly started running my helmet slick without rails lately. The mounts are extra weight, and I've had RAC arms fail in some sticky scenarios. I also don't like being tied to my helmet for discreet comms and hearing protection.
I've started making my PPE all separated, I have a velcro loop one wrap headset cover and it interfaces with velcro in my helmet and keeps it pretty stable but I can also just run my helmet separately if I'm patrolling greenside or want to run light.
Nice set up, I run mtek carbon for comfort/weight. Pad arrangement is pretty customizable with OEM ones, but would be troublesome with running a band under the helmet. Tnvc mohawk has been pretty good as a counter weight accessory, and cable management with retainers on the sides. The bottom Velcro loops don't hold them well or as neatly. I use it to hold my AB Night vision battery pack, which I pack with 4 AA batteries. This helps with balancing my dtnvgs. Unity mark's for peltors are okay, sometimes I feel like I don't get a good seal with them for noise, trouble some especially when you also want to wear eye pro. Ops core amps are good for someone that wants one headset to run on a helmet/only headset, the ability to go back and forth to the desired is it's pro. Definitely helps to run nvgs close to your eyes as possible for balancing. However you'll sacrifice peripherals a bit if that's a concern. Big problem for me is nvg bounce. Bungies and other forms to keep tension for movement under nods seems to be an afterthought with many companies. Haven't found a good solution for that yet, just ok ones
I was a little sad he dismissed MTEK immediately just because of the MLOK rails. I run their Ballistic helmet and it is stupid light (2.2lb!) and comfortable, and nowadays there are plenty of MLOK accessories available for it from all the major players. The cost is the only real downside, they definitely have a Cadillac price tag, but they have Cadillac performance too.
@@paintballplayer700 problem I have with it is being unable to mount a vampire light like in the video. The unity mark mounting location for me provides comfort, however it blocks part of the mlok that I need to mount a light. I could just get the unity knuckle, but spending more money on helmet accessories is at bottom of my list
@@senorFrog2032 do you know about the Thyrm VariArc? That's how I run my Surefire light on my Flux, it's great. I do run the rear-mounted AMP ear pro with it. They have an MLOK specific version.
Would you think this is good bump if I just wanted it for a Pvs14, I wouldn’t be putting anything else in it no cover no light not even earpro, just the tube..? I’m kinda at a fork here cuz I want something decent but don’t need another TW bump or ops core
@@thesiths3875 It's pretty good. I like the mount on the mtek being an Actual piece of metal. Just putting a pvs wouldn't be horrible but you'd have to run the straps pretty tight since the carbon is stupid light and you don't want the helmet to shift while moving. The ops core might be a better option since I like their helmet ratchet system
Team wendy bumps are extremely comfortable. Highly recommend them
What timing! I was watching through some older NVG videos last night. Its going to be a minute for me to buy any but the plan is getting into place. Thanks Hop!
I ended up finding tire weights at a local car parts store. They're small strips that breakaway into smaller squares I taped together once I got the right weight. Not a bad option, cheap.
I run a MICH-like helmet for over a decade now for duty use and the earpro is a good stabilizer ... Got a PGD-Arch (high-cut) for "reasons" and tried the option of helmet mounted earpro ... Didn't seem to fit snugly and there were times where it didn't keep tight against my skull. Went with having earpro on under the helmet separately and it works like a charm, keeps everything in place and i can quickly swithc between helmet on or off without needing to take earpro into account. Recently saw some clip about GBRS guys running theirs similarly so if it works for them it must be SCIENCE. Anyways, cheers and thanks for a entertaining/educational channel!
Love the N49. Not as good of a deal as it used to be, looks like the prices increased. I use the Agilite Opscore Maritime/FAST SF helmet cover on my N49, Medium cover fits my L helmet. I'd say it's a 99% fit, some of the velcro straps in the back don't make sense for the N49 but it works.
A video on mounting arms would definitely be helpful for newcomers to night vision. As a night-vision noob I like my surplus Rhino II arm since it's cheap ($80-100) and sports height adjustment (unlike the Rhino I). Plus an additional $70 can can buy a factory Norotos dovetail conversion.
I love my mtek, best helmet I’ve used. Running amps, s&s max mounted vampire head, prince mpls, pvs 31 battery pack, and helstar exo5. Can’t imagine needing to add anything else to the mlok ecosystem.
There is also Protection Group Danmark helmets. A bunch of us on Snipershide bought them. Very comfortable and ballistic rated.
Yup PGD helmets are def a go if you want a ballistic helmet at half the price of an Ops-Core helmet, and if you can"t get a PGD helmet for whatever reason, get Ballistic Armor Co Gen 2 Combat Helmet, it's the same helmet made by PGD except rebranded.
Just got one of those it's nice
If you want something for earpro and a bump helmet for under 500ish. Walker razors with an Opscore bump and legit Comtac helmet mounts work well. You have to force them in then tape the contact point, but they don't come loose and are super durable.
I just wanted to say I don't think I disagree as much with any other guntuber as i do you, but, I love your content and your ideals, I am trying to catch up on all the videos after subscribing lol
Thank you and keep it up Hop!
I’m 7 minutes in, thank you for using a clip of Medal of Honor Warfighter lol one of my favorite games
There's a few companies around that modify ACH style helmets to modern high cut with rails and shroud. I'm thinking of going that route, as I got a couple LWH (basically an ACH/PASGT cut) for free; conversion work looks like it'll be in the price range of a cheaper bump, so I figure I might put these to use and maaaybe get some ballistic out of it, lol.
from what i've read, those modifications throw the ballistic rating out the window.
@@yuval5628 i cut my PASGT to a high cut, you can shoot the little ears you cut off with a 9mm and it doesn't penetrate
also, the helmets are literally cut and drilled at the factory when they are made, but you don't complain about that do you?
@@yuval5628 From a purely physics standpoint, yes, shrinking the available surface area and putting holes anywhere in the material lessens the capability. However, that's true of modern helmets as well; the most protective helmet is one with no holes in it. But, seeing how it'd be hard to get one's head in a ball with no holes, much less mount things like nods to it, we settle for tradeoffs.
On a more serious note, honestly it's not changing much. The surrounding material isn't really affected by cuts/drilling, that's just not how aramid composites work. The old logic of any modifications whatsoever remove all ballistic protection is fudd lore. You do lose surface area, but the goal is to make the helmet more usable, so like everything, it's a trade. Also at the end of the day, we're talking really old helmets here. I don't wear body armor for a living, like most people, so having a helmet is purely a training/larpin'/good to have for potential weirdness down the road thing. If I did wear armor for my day job, I'd be dropping cash on the best thing I could buy, not modifying something I got for free, lol
@@renosgarage7451 when it comes to the integrity of the factory sealed kevlar fibers, drilling some holes and cutting long sections off aren't comparable. Not criticizing your choices bud, so no need to get upset. i just think it's important for people to understand they will more than likely be degrading the level of protection they will have from that helmet if they choose to chop it up.
@@yuval5628 the factory fibers aren't even sealed underneath the rubber over molding, and the factory helmets are cut with a band saw, if you had any experience with composites you would know it's impossible to get a perfect piece with no over-molding, every part has to be trimmed after forming
Videos like this are great. Very helpful for learning what you don't know so you can research that topic more. Thanks!
The MSA Sordins definitely mount to a helmet well with the unity tac mods. Pain in the ass. Would recommend swapping out the internal retaining clips for 5/16" eclips and if you're not good with board soldering, have that done professionally. SAS Tactical in Florida did a fantastic job on mine.
For a large Avon n49 the first spear opscore maritime ballistic helmet cover in size small/medium will fit
I thought I was the only one who had issues clearing their ear pro with a regular high cut 😅 definitely gonna have to pick up a super high cut
Thanks Hop, was just waiting to hear what you said about the Sordins. Really wasn't ready to pull them apart to install on an HHV using Unity parts. Love the TCI/Sordins, now for the range only.👍
i got arc adapters for the amp arms and it it works on my HHV famously. I know its a little backwards rocking an HHV with amps but eventually planning to upgrade the helmet.
@@PerFecTD0P3B01 Hey thanks for the info. I'm thinking the DEHP/Sordins are a little "plump" in the ear cups to fit well with the HHV high cut as it isn't all that high compared to others. Every head is unique, as are set-ups. Probably an good excuse for my setup to upgrade with something comms ready anyway.
@@williamlane2126 it’s a little weird cause I have to go under the helmet slightly then out and back with the AMP arms. However once they are one they are comfy and don’t feel smooshed or anything. Just takes a little muscle memory to do and it’s nice having the extra rail space. Definitely worth spending the 20-30 bucks on the adapters for the HHV to put AMP arms on.
I love this episode, I was wondering what you think about the dedicated mounts like the ones that Wilcox makes?
If you’re talking about the g69 mount they make, it’s awesome. Stows the nods much closer to your helmet and you can bring the nods a lot closer to your eyes. 100% worth the switch from an opscore mbs shroud and g24 to the g69 IMO
Anyone who says overall weight or counterweights don’t matter have never worn/hiked for hours in hot southern summer nights.
I dont think a counterweight is necessary for something like pvs14's but if youve got something like 7d's then i can understand. I dont have a lot of hours on 14's but i ran the fuck out of 7d's, also did some testing on pvs23's downrange. The 23's were binocular nvd's with thermal and used an external battery pack as a counterbalance, it was marginally more comfortable than the 7d's without counterweights, the night vision also failed in a couple weeks and needless to say, theres a reason it never made it to production.
@@g00gleisgayerthanaids56 Maybe not for short durations but if i had to pull an all nighter with a lid on my head staring through a tube especially on a patrol id want something to balance it out a little. I simply weighed my pvs14 plus wilcox mount and roughly matched that on my team wendy counterweight. Heck even on my Crye night cap i have the counterweight pouch thingy full of batteries just to offset it a lil. However i don’t own a ballistic helmet so i have no experience with those. 🤙
@@protectpersevere2030 i never had the option to add a counterweight, uniformity and all...
The only times i wore nods for extended periods of time was when we pulled forcepro and rotated 6 hour guard shifts, i made good use of the .50 to support the weight... our night patrols were relatively short, compared to daylight operations so we really dont wear them for that long, and in the instant you get in a tic or extended firefight you get an adrenaline hit and the last thing on your mind is a sore neck.
You do you though, if i had more hours on the 14's i might think differently, just the short time i got to use one was a world of a difference compared to the 7D's.
@@g00gleisgayerthanaids56 Sounds legit dude and tbh i could just be a wuss 😂. Have a good one friend 🤙
@@protectpersevere2030 lol, youre the one adding weight! A wuss wouldnt do that. One thing about the army is that sometimes you just learn to embrace the suck, lol, hard to fall asleep on guard if your neck is sore as shit!
Take care man
My favorite and most underrated helmet is the Caiman Hybrid helmet. I like it A LOT more than my opscores, maybe it's my fat head. I have a 25" dome and need XXL helmets but the caiman always just fit my head and was way more comfortable than my opscore helmets ever were. I went through SO many different padding options for the opscore helmets too. I literally spent well over $400 on just different padding systems/options like the cloudline for example (Which didn't work cause they only have L/XL. So having an XXL ... Didn't work out lmao), ACH or Lux liner I cant remember, and so on... My opscores helmets were always just an endless money pit (I'm sure if I had a "normal" sized head, it would be less of a problem.) before ultimately finding the 4D liners on TNVC, those were actually not terrible.. But still even then, it wasn't that great. But with my caiman, I've never had to do anything with it. It's just been perfect right out of the box as far as comfort goes. Plus they're a lot less common. So, ya know. Everyones always like "WHAT HELMET IS THAT" kinda thing. Which is fun :)
At the end of the day, what really matters is looking cool is what you're saying.
Something to consider...If you are a motorcycle rider who values their face (full face helmet) you are likely going to more used to having the weight on your head.
babe wake up, dad posted more night vision
A huge shoutout to all the conventional troops that have been running crap helmets, no counter weight, rhino mounted PVS 14 for weeks on end.
I would love to see you break down mount options in the future. It's great to see somebody else rocking the LoSto. Button placement can be kind of annoying, but the LoSto and AKA2 are by far the most stable mounts I've used thus far. The infamous 'Wilcox wobble' just isn't present with any of Norotos' newer offerings.
Just put together my caiman that will be home to my first monocular. I have the comtac 3's on the opscore amp arms via the AXL link. You are right that it is a little odd in how it blocks the mics but it works well for my needs and the comtacs feel solid on my head with the amp arms still providing that helmet support on the ears you mentioned. In the future I may spring for amps themselves. The caiman rocks and it is super comfys out of the box, my only gripe is that the amp arms rail attachment is just a little small for the rail, I had to shim it with some tape to get them to lock into the rail properly. Aside from that I am really excited about my first helmet. thanks for all your guides so far!
I got the M216 bump from team Wendy, I use it all 4 seasons. If you don't need ballistic protection look no further than Team Wendy!
Yup. Agree, slap their counter weight kit on, and in business. Run it slick (no cover) and let my 12 yr old camo paint it with some netting. Sloppy spray paint hands for the win!
Interesting to note that you can get a top of the line carbon fibre full-face MTB helmet for under $500, and that's designed for 60+km/h impacts, not to mention being about twice as much coverage.
Difference is once you start drilling holes into that helmet for mounts, rails, etc. you compromise the carbon fiber. Better off going with a bump helmet for less than $500.
Hop
Run the ear pro wire under the helmet padding
It snags less in brush
A year late but a trick i figured out in the infantry without a counterweight: buy a 2nd set of pads and fill the entire front with the rectangles from 10 to 2. Helmet will still slump forward but the pads will prevent headaches
your videos are so engaging that I forgot that I had to go to work and was late.
keep it up with the great videos
Finally pulled the trigger on an Ops-Core FAST SF. Now just the wait time.
I currently run an EXFIL LTP, I love it so far, I have just a basic sandbag counterweight, along with a Wilcox G24 and J arm for my 14. my current issue is trying to figure out a good headset setup, I just run walker razors for the moment, and I need to remove most of the padding inside to be able to wear the helmet and the headphones, I think I’ll try to go with that comtac setup you have on your helmet or something similar to it, it looks fairly comfortable, plus I wouldn’t need to worry about properly fitting my helmet over the headset strap.
FYI, I've found the two best options for mounting ear pro to the Exfil LTP are the Unity Mark 2 and, if you're willing to deal with figuring out the adapters, the OpsCore AMP Arms with adapters for the Exfil LTP and for the comtacs (or whatever ear pro you are using). I have also tried headset under the helmet (hated it) and have tried the comtac mounts from team wendy (they were too loose to make a seal for me).
@@BanditBents would those work with either of the Wendy LTP Gen 2 and 3 rails? Because I have the Gen 2 rail system on mine.
You're looking for the QD peltor adapters on TW's website. That works with 3.0 helmets
Where’s your beez cover man??? Good points about the outlines and breakup. Helmets are the FASTEST give away. Using the beez cover also works with natural vegetation and comes with “dreads” to tie into it that furthers your outline breakup. Definitely all good points as always
Used to run a converted s/M CVC helmet but recently switched to an ACH because I cant get the CVC to fit my medium sized head. And I tried basically everything - 4 point chin harness, multiple pad configurations, you name it!
I routinely run Howard Lights under both my Crye Airframe and my stock ACH cut Revision Vipers.
One problem with M-Lok is that it doesn’t hold zero when used on firearms.
Why would you need M-lok to hold zero
@@Hoplopfheilzeroed bcm foregrip.
Whats the main avantage of a bump helmet compared to a Crye nightcap? It seems to me that besides mounting earpro, you get about about 90% of the capability of a bump helmet, at about half the cost, half the weight, and with the option for a non-plastic NV mounting bracket. I mean there's also the looking cool part I realize, but that's what your ballistic helmet is for.
The nightcap is pure misery.
On the Arisaka website they tell you the weight for a complete flashlight as "body only" w/o the tail cap or batteries. Manufacturer/reseller specs on websites are either nothing, incomplete or like a tricky calorie serving on food box.
I've been seriously considering a hi-cut helmet from HighCom, they do ACH-style helmets in all cuts with a lot of options as far as protection and weight. PASGTs too, if you're into that.
Anybody have experience with them?
I have a highcut Shellback Tactical helmet which is just a rebranded HighCom. It's a bit on the heavier side and the pads it comes with have problems sticking, but it's a really nice build quality with the built in wilcox mounting plate and the retention strap is really nice. I've outfitted it with everything I basically want and its a solid helmet to build from. Kinda wish I was issued with something of the like when I served.
I second the Shellback tactical rebrand. Not as fancy but it works. Just make sure you get one with rails and a shroud already installed.
I've got two ballistic helmets (getting a bump soon) and a counterweight is still absolutely necessary.
I'm gonna buy Hop merch now just to prove Hop wrong at the end.
Cool. I think he'll sell that helmet setup for the price of a t-shirt.
You say we wouldn't buy merch, but I think you know that we would absolutely fuck up a website for some Hop patches
I'm gonna keep slumming it with my orc helmet but those tips about the comtacs are nice, will def get some of those doodads
love my n49s...one of the lightest ballistic helmets available (lighter than tw SL or opscore SF)
Im sure a lot of guys talking about a ballistic helmet and no counterweight were probably veterans who plainly didnt have any real options to consider.
I was issued pvs 23's to test while in afghanistan and it was a binocular nvd with thermal capabilities, because of this it had a battery pack that strapped to the rear of the helmet. It was heavier than running just pvs 7D's but was a bit more comfortable as there was less pressure on my forehead. Needless to say that after a couple weeks the nightvision didnt work anymore and thermals chewed through batteries in 20 minutes of runtime. Had to turn em in and was back on 7 fucking deltas again.
What year were you in that you had to use PVS7s
@@fury556 09-13, i was a medic attached to a heavy weapons company, in the rear most of us joes ran 7D's, doc never got priority nods. Everyone in the rifle companies had 14's though. We all got 14's downrange, except me, because i made a stink about wanting to test the fancy new nods which didnt last, at that point we just didnt have enough 14's anymore as we were breaking down and pulling out, handing over to anp/ana.
It really didnt matter though, hajj didnt want shit at night, usually i could see better with natural night vision anyways.
Gentex is clearing out the old style opscore carbons for around $450 shipped, mine took almost two months to ship however.
Yeah, so, never used a counterweight during any of my 4 deployments. Running 14s on issued ballistic helmet. Many many all nighters both on foot and mounted. Guys scouting out front on the quads did use just bumps, though.
Lots of guys I know who did that now wish they had counterweights. Neck problems are sadly common.
@@marcusborderlands6177 I’m 42, still run the same setup at home. At least for me it works, although I may be an outlier. If I want a button down shirt to wear a tie in, it has to be custom made due to my neck.. lol
@@AnonyMous-jf4lcthat's pretty impressive, but a counterweight has basically no downsides, and vastly improves helmet comfort. It's worth giving it a try.
Sam is still around, he just put a lot of his stuff behind patreon. It's incredible value for the money, IMO. When I do what he says, night vision is really easy.
Spent many hundreds of hours under a gentex with no counterweight. Proper pad placement and a well adjusted suspension make it wearable for a full night of patrols. Not to say they won't make it more comfortable though
re: ballistic helmets with counterweights... well, you really don't NEED to, it's true. i'd hazard a guess that a lot of the guys who say that are, like myself, crusty old grunts who... wait, you already accounted for masochism. carry on.
I appreciate you because you aren’t trying to sell me anything
Holy shi*, your channel is so good! In the last couple of months i learned so much from you.. Keep it up 🤘
11:40 idk why but this cracked me up. Fuck dude you’re funny
I really enjoyed spending like $20 on Ops-Core's special helmet sizing measure tape
Thank you for this video! Answered a bunch of my questions.
Do this type of video with armor, battle belts, and plate carriers
I really only got a PVS14 for the novelty of it, and i don't have much need of a full helmet setup. I ended up just getting a nightcap and it's worked decently, but i ought to get a counterweight. but what are your thoughts on it?
i'll have to look into the helmets you mentioned however, i always appreciate info on things like this
The nightcap is a nice thing to have but I find it excruciating to wear even with a counterweight. The one that Crye sells to go with it is a pain in the ass to install but probably the best option.
I love my nightcap but don’t have a helmet either, worn for hours no issue, it takes a while to adjust. I made a counterweight out of wheel weights wrapped in 200mph tape but I never use it because it throws off the “low profile low weight” usefulness of the nightcap. Maybe I just have a thick neck😂
Absolutely would like you to expound in future vids.
I see the dumb comments on your IG story. Just want to say we all ❤ you Hop
We need a review on just the u49 helmet. They are very few and far between. I’m about to buy one though. They seem to be an absolute spec monster for the price.
Can I ask what city these videos are filmed at? So beautiful!
Possums of hazard patch!
What do you think about the RPNVG housing especially panning vs articulating?
Whats the best camo to conceal in the night? Black , FDE, Ranger green?. For instance, a black or fde l4g24? If you use a cheap helmet cover will it be displayed by other nvgs?
Navy or dark blues and blacks offer the best blending into the night
I really enjoy my Team Wendy Bump. Ran all day in an airsoft match and did not even notice it
Yes please video on counterweight and pouch options
Hey hop, have you ever used the eotech ir laser that replaces a a 512s battery pack? Ive been eyeing one for a bit but theres no good reviews out there. P.S. id buy the merch
I'll admit I spent a good few hundred on ops core arms and adapters to use them with my Peltors. But god damn they are so much better than the wire arms. Probably my head, I couldn't get the wires to work with my face.
Could you list out the items that make up the helmet you were holding in the video ?
Appreciate you and brass facts; the only youtubers I currently subscribestar to. Keep up the great content.
Hop, is that a Marathon watch? Would love to see a review
I don't know anything about watches
@@Hoplopfheil when has that stopped most people from spouting off on the internet about stuff?
Possums are fun. Well put.
I’m new to nods and shooting overall. What tubes are used at 8:10? The picture quality is 9.9/10!!
Hey, Hopp. Sorry if this is a du,b question. Is there like "the best" arc rail adapter for hearing protection? or which ones would you recommend?
Get the 3m peltor arc rail mounts. I use them on walkers and they're the ones he has in the video
@@AspenSavage Thanks, man!
@@rohtbertmesinas4560 No problem
There are eBay sellers who chop up PASGT, ACH and ECH helmets into high cut with nod brackets and rails
Do a review on Earmor ear pro.
Thanks Hop. Great ending… I’d buy a shirt. Don’t cheap out on the fabric so it washes funny though.
Great info. I have one important question though. Where did you find that possum patch?
Have you seen protection group denmark helmets? Theyre allegedly legitimate ballistic protection for a very reasonable price. Not Chinese. Definitely worth looking at.
@Wendigoslayer ive seen that. I will say the gen 2 is way better than the gen 1 i have but im still happy, especially at the price. As long as the ballistic performance match up.
Great stuff! I personally have an Ops-Core Fast SF Ballistic with Comtac 6 attached via ARC adapters. I too have a Unity Remora mount with a Surefire X300V; I probably should have went with the 3V Scout Vampire, but it is nice.
Question for you, how are you recording color in NV? That is amazing; I would like to do this for training purposes at work. Thanks man.
SiOnyx Aurora Pro
@@Hoplopfheil Thanks man, really appreciate it.
UARM ballistic helmet for it's price it's really good sadly you can't get it anymore
Hey Hop! What helmet brand would you recommend for fat heads like me. I'm a American hat size 8 which is hard to find headgear for. Like to know the helmet is going to fit before I drop the coin