I know that everyone has their favorite helmet set up, I am looking for something that I can use that is a "helmet over headset" type, Helmets wear out and deteriorate over time, plus I do have a headset that I do like so I do not want a helmet with built in electronics..
I have a comtronics helmet that fits over a headset, problem is that I have to get another for the tango, But me being a cheapskate, I don't want to spend $200= for a $60 helmet that was modified. (The last one I bought was when Mary worked for aircraft spruce and got a discount) I know that Alex has a couple of different brands of helmets that he uses.
I want open face helmet,
I could always get a wal-mart helmet and cut headphone reliefs..
Cool Thanks!!
Might be an option..
Tac helmet.jpg
I bought a FAST helmet. Waiting for the headphones. It isn't bad and might be better for hot weather than the standard fare.
The nice thing about the FAST helmets is that you can adjust the pads on the inside so it will fit over an aviation headset.
Or you can get the helmet mount headset things and modify a set of PELTOR headsets.
I have one that I am working on in my limited spare time.
I received the FAST helmet that I ordered for a test. It is a cheapo, but looks fairly stout and is comfortable. If I can get the electronics to work for the headset (when it arrives), then I think this may make a good setup for demo rides and students. Helmets tend to get beat-up and cruddy with that kind of constant use and I won't feel bad about chucking one of these when it is a bit worse for wear.
The helmet looks like it would provide about the same level of protection as a Comtronics half-shell, is more comfortable and is a lot cooler in hot weather. It may not be suitable for cold weather operations, but then...neither am I.
This is the one. Several vendors on eBay sell them for $25.00-$40.00. The biggest difference between these and the $400 models is that the ABS shell is not bullet-proof. Even the bullet-proof models are not DOT approved.
It is important to note that even Comtronics helmets, that allege they are DOT compliant, were only compliant while they were motorcycle helmets...BEFORE Comtronix started cutting headphone pockets and drilling holes for special straps and electronics attach points.
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I bought a similar FAST helmet but with the higher ear openings for coms, I do like the built in shield. I could not find a built in shield on the maritime helmet.
I also bought a set of Peltor headset ear muffs and put the electronics from a broken aviation headset in the peltor headset, seems to work OK, I tried the helmet mounts for the headsets but like most have found the helmet mounted ear cups do not stay put with wind, it seems to work much better with a headset and a helmet over them. I will try to get some pics later.
peltor-sport-ultimate-30-nrr-97042-pel-6c.jpg
Tac helmet.jpg
It is probable for use in a machine with a windscreen (such as the EuroTubs), wind pushing the earpieces about is less of a problem. I will advise once I test...if my headphones will EVER GET HERE!
It was my intention to buy only from US shippers to avoid the China shipment delay. Apparently, some folks have decided it is OK to list as a US shipper even if they order from China to fulfill EVERY SINGLE ORDER!
One old icky-poo headset....
old headset.jpg
headset2.jpg
And put all the guts into the 3m Peltor hearing protectors, New headset for $22. !!
Even looks good on the gyro!
headset1.jpg
OK, I received the first headset. It was alleged to be a $55 Noise-Cancelling setup that goes on before the helmet. Not the type that connect outside. I wired it for GA two-plug and the mic and heaphones work about like a $150 set of GA headphones. The noise-cancelling is meant to clobber only very loud noises (such as gunshots). It does no good at all with typical shop noises (air compressors, fans, etc.) I have a set of noise-cancelling earbuds that completely wipe out external noise...even engine noise. These headphones don't do that.
I will reserve final judgement for an in-air test.
It is important to remember that most of the noise in a two-place comes in from the intercom when the mics are live. What works for single-place use is not generally suitable for two-place.
My headset is working GREAT the peltor has 33db noise reduction so it seems to work just fine, going to try the helmet with camera mount soon.
Well, the assault helmet I am using is OK, but I have now tried 3 versions of the stock assault headphones. They work, but not well, and the noise-cancelling included is clearly designed for protecting from a momentary gunshot rather than ongoing noise such as from a prop or engine. No real surprise there, I suppose. So....I like the helmet, but as in Scott's example, using another source for the headset is required.
I am still in search of the low-cost helmet/headset alternative. There are good helmet alternatives, but the headset piece is still pricey.
One of these that I would sell: https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/avpages/dchelmet.php