Are Ballistic Helmets Legal?

As tensions rise around the world, internationally and domestically in many cases, ordinary citizens and police personnel are becoming understandably increasingly concerned about their safety. This begs the question, especially if you’re an ordinary citizen – are ballistic helmets legal?

Keeping your head protected is vital in a wide range of scenarios, and today’s bulletproof helmets can effectively withstand powerful handgun rounds.

With that in mind, let’s dive into the rules and regulations surrounding the purchase and use of ballistic helmets in the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK.

If you have specific questions, contact our experts here at The Survival Island.

 

Are Ballistic Helmets Legal in the USA?

At the federal level, according to  18 U.S. Code Section 931, any garment that is designed to protect the wearer against gunfire belongs to the ‘body armour’ category.

In most states, there are no restrictions on the purchase or use of body armour, including bulletproof helmets, except for people under the age of 18 years and those previously convicted of a violent felony. However, those with a criminal record may be able to obtain permission to use a helmet if they can prove their job demands it.

Some states impose additional restrictions on the use of body armour. For example, in Connecticut, convicted felons of certain non-violent crimes are prohibited from wearing ballistic helmets and body armour. Moreover, you can only purchase armour in person – online transactions are illegal.

The only state that has criminalized the purchase of body armour and ballistic helmets without a permit is New York, where the unlawful purchase of helmets is considered a misdemeanor. Subsequent offences can be classed as Class E felonies.

It’s also worth noting that in most states, wearing armour while committing a crime often results in more severe penalties and sentences.

 

Are Ballistic Helmets Legal in Canada?

In Canada, all citizens who possess a Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) or Restricted PAL (RPAL) under the Firearms Act can legally purchase and wear body ballistic helmets at the federal level. However, some states and provinces have imposed additional restrictions.

There are no additional restrictions in Ontario, Quebec or Nova Scotia. Provided you have a PAL or RPAL, you can legally buy and use ballistic helmets.

In Alberta, you must obtain an additional permit to wear ballistic helmets and all other types of body armour, unless you work in an exempted profession such as the police. Since Alberta’s Body Armour Control Act came into effect in 2012, possession of armour and bulletproof helmets has been a chargeable offense.

British Columbia imposes no additional restrictions on citizens with a PAL or RPAL. However, you must obtain a permit to wear ballistic helmets if you don’t have a firearms license. Manitoba’s body armour laws are similar.

In all other states, you’ll need a permit in addition to your PAL or RPAL to purchase body armour and ballistic helmets legally.

Are Ballistic Helmets Legal in Australia?

In Australia, all forms of ballistic body armour are considered Category E firearms, which means you’ll need a permit to buy or use a ballistic helmet. While anybody can apply for a permit, only those who work in professions such as security or the police can usually obtain them. However, helmets designed specifically to protect your hearing or sight are not restricted by this law.

If you work in a profession that demands the use of a ballistic helmet, you can apply for a permit via the relevant state department, and the rules differ in each state. For example, in New South Wales, you must have completed relevant safety courses and be able to justify a genuine reason for needing a helmet.

 

Are Ballistic Helmets Legal in the UK?

In the UK, there are currently no specific laws prohibiting the purchase or use of items of body armour, including ballistic helmets. Naturally, you’re not allowed to buy body armour with the intention of using it for illegal purposes. Penalties can be more severe for criminals caught wearing body armour while committing a crime.

However, if you’re purchasing body armour and helmets as a police officer or for a police department, you must buy items that comply with minimum testing requirements for ballistic garments as set out in the Home Office Body Armor Standard 2017. According to these requirements, helmets and armour must undergo specialised testing on male and female torsos, plus ‘in-life’ testing to make sure these items maintain their protective capabilities as designed.

 

How to Choose a Ballistic Helmet

Assuming you can legally purchase, own and wear body armour in your country or state, you might be wondering how to determine how effective they are.

In the USA, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets ratings that define an item’s protective capabilities. Certified products undergo extensive testing to receive one of five classifications, starting from Level IIA and ascending to Level IV.

Generally, the highest category ballistic helmets fall into is Level III, which can protect you against 9mm, .357 SIG, and .44 Magnum rounds. Unfortunately, if a helmet were to be designed for a higher category than Level III, it would be too heavy to be practical, and the blunt-force trauma from a rifle bullet would still likely be fatal.

In the UK, items of body armour instead often comply with the Home Office 2017 Standard, under which HG2 (Handgun 2) is the closest equivalent to the NIJ’s Level III.

Of course, in real-world situations, it’s impossible to predict how a bulletproof helmet will perform. However, provided it has a certified NIJ or Home Office rating, you can feel confident that it has withstood testing in extreme conditions that you’re unlikely to face.

 

Browse the Ballistic Helmets at The Survival Island

When it comes to your physical safety, taking chances isn’t an option. That’s why we only source the highest-quality, fully certified ballistic helmets on the market, sourced from pioneering manufacturers throughout the world.

At The Survival Island, we’re a team of wilderness and survival experts that’s always scouring the globe for the most innovative items of body armour. In our vast selection, you’ll find suitable options for all purposes, whether you’re a concerned citizen or a special-ops officer.

So, browse our body armour today. If you have any questions about our products or the legalities in your area, we’re only a phone call away.