Ops-Core is not only competing for the market for head protection against normal bumps with its bowl, but is also offering a model in the battle for the best ballistic protection. This results in three versions of the FAST Helmet: The Base Jump - the cheapest version - we already introduced here in the REVIEW, the Carbon - more expensive than the Base Jump and essentially the non-ballistic version of the Ballistic - can be found here in the REVIEW. The basic features of the Ballistic are consistent with the Base Jump, so you can read more about it in the review. In this review, SPARTANAT explains what is special about the FAST Ballistic.

Top view of the Ballistic: visually you can tell it apart from the Base Jump and Carbon models because it does not have ventilation holes in the shell like they do. The velcro is accordingly different: on the Base Jump, only Velcro in flag size is glued on the sides, the Carbon has an additional bar over it (with cut-out holes) and a small arc of velcro, as if you were attaching a Manta Strobe. On the Ballistic, this velcro does not have holes anymore. In terms of weight, the Ballistic (in size M/L shell; with rails and VAS shroud) is twice as heavy: it weighs 1328 grams, the Carbon weighs 682 grams, and the Base Jump weighs 630 grams.

Frontal view of the Ballistic: With the FAST Base Jump, the NVG mount is cast with the shell. The FAST Carbon, like the Ballistic, has pre-drilled holes for a shroud in the MARSOC/WARCOM pattern. If you want to add the VAS Shroud from Ops-Core, you'll have to pay extra. Here on this FAST Ballistic, Steyrman has mounted a Wilcox L2G05.

Looking inside: The Ballistic looks similar to a classic MICH helmet. The ballistic protection properties are described on the Ops-Core website or in their catalog. Otherwise, the excellent interior is similar to that of the Base Jump and is comfortable to wear.

CONCLUSION: Ballistic protection and great functionality come together in the FAST Ballistic Helmet. The interior makes it comfortable, the rails offer great equipment options, and the shell protects the head in emergencies.

You can get the Ops-Core FAST Ballistic Helmet directly from Ops-Core or from international retailers for $980.