Let’s Dive into Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic)
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) enters a market saturated with both high-end ballistic helmets and inexpensive airsoft replicas. Chase Tactical, a company known for its tactical gear, aims to bridge the gap with this offering, providing head protection and a versatile mounting platform without the ballistic rating. This review aims to dissect whether it hits the mark, providing genuine utility or falling short of expectations for serious users.
As someone who spends a considerable amount of time in the outdoors, from low-light hog hunts to backcountry navigation exercises, a reliable helmet platform is crucial for mounting essential equipment. I was looking for a lightweight and adaptable bump helmet that could securely hold my night vision monocular (NVG) and a helmet-mounted flashlight, without breaking the bank. The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) appeared to be a viable candidate.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was somewhat mixed. The helmet felt surprisingly lightweight, a definite plus for extended wear. The build quality seemed decent at first glance, with the included rails, shroud, and Velcro patches offering a good degree of modularity.
I considered options from Team Wendy and Ops-Core, known for their premium bump helmets. However, their price points were significantly higher. I also looked at some cheaper airsoft helmets, but was concerned about their durability and reliability for mounting sensitive equipment. Ultimately, the Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) seemed to offer a balance between cost and functionality, hoping it could hold its own.
My first impression landed somewhere between cautious optimism and slight disappointment. It certainly looked the part, but the overall feel lacked the premium quality I’ve come to expect from higher-end tactical gear. I hoped field testing would reveal its true potential, or confirm my initial concerns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) during a night navigation exercise in a heavily wooded area. The primary goal was to assess the helmet’s comfort and stability while carrying an NVG and a tactical flashlight. I also wanted to see how well the mounting system would hold up during rigorous movement.
The initial hours went relatively smoothly; however, the comfort level decreased noticeably. In slightly more rugged terrain, the NVG mount felt less secure than I would have liked, requiring frequent adjustments. Even though this bump helmet meets ANSI EN1385:2012 standards, I definitely felt that this helmet was not prepared for the outdoors, especially when airborne ops are mentioned.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in varying conditions, including simulated tactical scenarios and range sessions, the Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) began to show its limitations. The elastic bungee cords, designed to secure NVGs, stretched out and lost elasticity within a couple of weeks. The plastic side rails also exhibited signs of stress, particularly around the mounting screws.
The helmet itself held up reasonably well, with no major structural damage, despite some scratches and scuffs. Cleaning was straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe down the shell and pads. Compared to my previous experiences with higher-quality bump helmets, the Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) underperformed in terms of durability and long-term reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic)
Specifications
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) is designed for head protection and accessory mounting, but not for ballistic protection. It weighs approximately 24 ounces, making it relatively lightweight for extended use. The helmet features upper and lower dovetail rails for attaching lights, cameras, and communication devices.
It also includes top and side strips of loop Velcro for attaching hook-sided accessories like illuminators or battery packs. The padded suspension system features an adjustable 4-point harness for a customized fit. The helmet is a universal size, designed to fit a wide range of head sizes. These specifications are critical for comfort and adaptability to the user’s kit.
Performance & Functionality
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) performs adequately as a basic bump helmet, providing impact protection against minor bumps and scrapes. Its accessory rails and mounting points provide a platform for attaching essential gear, enhancing tactical utility. However, the quality of the suspension system and the durability of certain components fall short of expectations for serious users.
The helmet’s strengths lie in its lightweight design and modularity, allowing users to customize it with various accessories. The weaknesses are in the quality of the materials and the reliability of the mounting system. It meets basic needs but doesn’t exceed expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) is designed to mimic the appearance of a military-style bump helmet, providing a tactical aesthetic. The helmet’s lightweight construction and adjustable suspension system contribute to its overall comfort, though the quality of the padding could be improved. It is reasonably user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive accessory mounting system.
The build quality is acceptable for its price point, though the materials used are not as robust as those found in higher-end helmets. The weight is a definite plus, enhancing comfort during extended use. There is a small learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) is not designed for heavy-duty use and may not withstand the rigors of intense training or operational environments. The elastic bungee cords and plastic rails are potential points of failure, requiring periodic replacement. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Its lifespan will depend largely on the frequency and intensity of use. Replacement parts may be necessary over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) comes with several essential accessories, including rails, a shroud, Velcro patches, and bungee cords. This helmet has multiple spots to add accessories. It is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including NVG mounts, tactical lights, and communication headsets.
The helmet’s modular design allows users to customize it to their specific needs and preferences. The compatibility with popular accessories from other brands is a major advantage.
Pros and Cons of Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic)
Pros
- Affordable entry point into the bump helmet market.
- Lightweight design enhances comfort during extended use.
- Modular accessory mounting system for lights, cameras, and communication devices.
- Universal sizing with adjustable 4-point harness for a customized fit.
- Meets ANSI EN1385:2012 test results.
Cons
- Durability of elastic bungees and plastic rails is questionable.
- Suspension system could be more comfortable and supportive.
- Not suitable for high-intensity training or operational environments.
- Quality of included hardware could be improved.
Who Should Buy Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic)?
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) is perfect for airsoft enthusiasts, recreational users, and individuals seeking basic head protection for light-duty activities. It’s also good for those on a budget needing a platform for mounting accessories.
Those requiring robust, reliable head protection for professional use or high-risk environments should skip this product. A higher-end bump helmet from a reputable brand is recommended for such users.
A quality NVG mount, a reliable tactical flashlight, and potentially an upgraded suspension system are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic)
The Chase Tactical Bump Helmet (Non Ballistic) offers a budget-friendly entry point into the world of tactical headgear. While it provides a basic level of protection and a versatile mounting platform, its limitations in durability and overall quality must be considered. Its value proposition depends on the user’s specific needs and expectations.
For casual users and airsoft players, the price may be justified. However, serious users requiring robust, reliable performance should invest in a higher-quality alternative.
I would recommend this product with reservations, primarily to those on a tight budget seeking a basic bump helmet for light-duty use. However, be prepared to potentially upgrade certain components and accept its limitations.