Shellback Tactical Spec Ops ACH High Cut Ballistic Helmet – Level IIIA Protection

What the IIIA rating covers

Shellback lists this helmet as meeting the NIJ 0106.01 standard at Level IIIA for handgun rounds. The rounds it is listed to defeat are .357 SIG FMJ, 9mm, .38, .40 S&W and .44 Mag. Fragmentation protection is rated to MIL-STD-662F. Level IIIA is a handgun rating; it is not a rifle rating.

Why the high cut

The shell follows the ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet) pattern, trimmed higher over the ears. That cut saves weight, frees head movement, and makes room for over-the-ear communication headsets. Side rails and the NVG shroud take mounted accessories.

Sizing and weight

• Medium: 21.9 to 22.7 in head circumference, hat size 6 7/8 to 7 1/8, 3.1 lb
• Large: 22.7 to 24 in, hat size 7 1/4 to 7 3/8, 3.2 lb
• Extra Large: 24 to 26 in, hat size 7 1/2 to 7 3/4, 3.4 lb

Measure around the head just above the eyebrows and ears, then fine-tune the fit with the ratcheting suspension.

Frequently asked questions

What threats is the Shellback Spec Ops ACH helmet rated for?

It meets NIJ 0106.01 at Level IIIA against handgun rounds, with .357 SIG FMJ, 9mm, .38, .40 S&W and .44 Mag listed as defeated. Fragmentation protection is rated to MIL-STD-662F. Like any Level IIIA helmet, it is not rated to stop rifle rounds.

Which size Shellback ACH helmet should I order?

Go by head circumference. Medium fits 21.9 to 22.7 in (hat 6 7/8 to 7 1/8), large fits 22.7 to 24 in (hat 7 1/4 to 7 3/8), and extra large fits 24 to 26 in (hat 7 1/2 to 7 3/4). Helmet weight runs from 3.1 lb in medium to 3.4 lb in extra large.