As 2023 draws to a close, it’s time to look ahead to the future of thermal helmet mount setups. With the rapid advancements in technology, we can expect to see some groundbreaking new products in the coming year. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best thermal helmet mount setups to look out for in 2024. These setups will be designed to provide the best possible performance in a variety of operational environments.
One of the most important considerations when choosing a thermal helmet mount setup is the type of thermal imaging system you will be using. There are two main types of thermal imaging systems: uncooled and cooled. Uncooled systems are more affordable and have a lower power consumption, but they also have a lower image quality than cooled systems. Cooled systems, on the other hand, provide a much better image quality, but they are more expensive and have a higher power consumption. Once you have chosen the type of thermal imaging system you will be using, you can start to narrow down your choices for a helmet mount setup.
Another important consideration when choosing a thermal helmet mount setup is the weight of the setup. A heavy setup can be uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time, and it can also affect your balance and mobility. The weight of a setup will vary depending on the type of thermal imaging system you are using, as well as the type of mount you choose. When choosing a mount, it’s important to find one that is lightweight and durable. You’ll also want to make sure that the mount is compatible with your helmet and thermal imaging system. With so many different options to choose from, you are sure to find the best thermal helmet mount setup for 2024. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that you have the best possible thermal imaging setup for your needs.
The Ultimate Guide to Thermal Helmet Mount Setup
1. Choosing the Right Mount for Your Helmet
The first step in setting up a thermal helmet mount is to choose the right mount for your helmet. There are a wide variety of mounts on the market, so it’s important to find one that’s compatible with your helmet and provides the features you need. For example, some mounts are designed to be mounted on the top of the helmet, while others are designed to be mounted on the side or back. Some mounts also come with features such as adjustable arms, quick-release mechanisms, and built-in batteries.
The ideal mount for your helmet will depend on a number of factors, including the type of helmet you have, the size and weight of your thermal imaging device, and your personal preferences. It’s important to take all of these factors into consideration when choosing a mount.
Here is a table comparing the different types of helmet mounts:
| Type of Mount | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Top-mounted | Provides a stable and secure platform for your thermal imaging device. | Can be bulky and heavy. |
| Side-mounted | Less bulky and heavy than top-mounted mounts. | Can be more difficult to access your thermal imaging device. |
| Rear-mounted | Provides a low-profile and unobtrusive mounting solution. | Can be more difficult to adjust the position of your thermal imaging device. |
Top 5 Thermal Helmet Mount Options for 2024
2. Wilcox L3 G24 NVG Mount
The Wilcox L3 G24 NVG Mount is a top-of-the-line thermal helmet mount that offers a combination of durability, adjustability, and stability. Constructed from lightweight and durable materials, this mount is designed to withstand the rigors of military operations. It features a unique auto-locking lever that allows for quick and secure attachment to any standard NVG dovetail interface. The mount’s tension adjustment screw enables a precise fit to the user’s head, ensuring a comfortable and secure wear.
One of the key advantages of the Wilcox L3 G24 NVG Mount is its exceptional adjustability. It features a 360-degree rotating dovetail interface, allowing users to fine-tune the position of their thermal device for optimal viewing. Additionally, the mount provides both vertical and horizontal adjustment capabilities, enabling users to customize the height and angle of the device to suit their specific needs.
To further enhance stability and comfort during prolonged use, the Wilcox L3 G24 NVG Mount incorporates a proprietary suspension system. This system utilizes a combination of soft padding and tension straps to distribute the weight of the thermal device evenly across the user’s head. As a result, users can wear the mount for extended periods without experiencing discomfort or fatigue.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12 ounces |
| Material | Lightweight and durable materials |
| Adjustment | 360-degree rotation, vertical and horizontal adjustment |
| Compatibility | Standard NVG dovetail interface |
| Comfort | Proprietary suspension system |
Advanced Features to Consider for Thermal Helmet Mounts
1. Image Stabilization
Image stabilization is a crucial feature for thermal helmet mounts, as it helps to reduce blurring and vibration caused by head movement. This ensures a clear and stable image, even when the wearer is on the move.
2. Field of View (FOV)
The Field of View (FOV) determines the area that the thermal imager can view. A wider FOV provides a larger field of vision, while a narrower FOV offers a more focused view.
3. Lens Quality
The lens quality of the thermal helmet mount is essential for image clarity and accuracy. Opt for mounts that feature high-quality lenses with low distortion and high resolution.
4. Weight and Balance
The weight and balance of the thermal helmet mount can affect the wearer’s comfort and stability. Choose mounts that are lightweight and well-balanced to minimize fatigue and discomfort during extended use.
5. Water Resistance and Durability
Thermal helmet mounts should be water-resistant and durable to withstand harsh weather conditions and demanding operations. Look for mounts with IP ratings that indicate their level of protection against water and dust.
6. Battery Life and Power Management
Battery life is a key consideration when choosing a thermal helmet mount. Extended battery life is essential for long missions or operations that require uninterrupted use. Look for mounts with long battery life and efficient power management features to minimize power consumption. Consider mounts with multiple battery options or the ability to connect to external power sources for extended use. Additionally, consider mounts that offer charging capabilities through USB or other convenient methods.
Durability and Reliability of Thermal Helmet Mounts
When selecting a thermal helmet mount, durability and reliability are paramount. The mount will be subjected to extreme conditions, including shock, vibration, and recoil. It is crucial to ensure that the mount is capable of withstanding these forces without compromising the performance of the thermal device.
The mount’s construction and materials play a significant role in its durability. Metal mounts are generally more robust than polymer mounts, providing greater resistance to impact and deformation. Aluminum and steel are commonly used metals for helmet mounts due to their strength and corrosion resistance.
The design of the mount also contributes to its reliability. A well-designed mount will distribute force evenly, preventing stress concentrations that could lead to failure. Proper fit and alignment are essential to ensure that the mount remains securely attached to the helmet.
Factors to Consider for Durability and Reliability of Thermal Helmet Mounts:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Metal mounts are generally more durable than polymer mounts. Aluminum and steel are commonly used metals for their strength and corrosion resistance. |
| Construction | A well-designed mount will distribute force evenly, preventing stress concentrations that could lead to failure. |
| Fit and Alignment | Proper fit and alignment are essential to ensure that the mount remains securely attached to the helmet. |
| Shock Resistance | The mount should be able to withstand shock from drops or impacts without damaging the thermal device or helmet. |
| Vibration Resistance | The mount should be able to dampen vibrations from the firearm or vehicle, preventing image blur or damage to the thermal device. |
| Recoil Resistance | The mount should be able to handle the force of recoil from firearm use without becoming loose or shifting. |
| Environmental Resistance | The mount should be resistant to corrosion, moisture, and extreme temperatures to ensure reliable performance in various environments. |
Accessory Options for Thermal Helmet Mounts
8. Battery Packs
Helmet-mounted thermal devices are power-hungry, so having a reliable battery pack is essential. Some helmet mounts come with built-in battery packs, while others require the use of external packs. External battery packs offer more flexibility, as they can be swapped out quickly and easily. When choosing a battery pack, consider its capacity, voltage, and compatibility with your thermal device. Lithium-ion batteries are a popular choice for helmet-mounted thermal setups due to their high energy density and low weight.
| Battery Type | Capacity (mAh) | Voltage (V) | Weight (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lithium-ion | 5000 | 3.7 | 250 |
| AA | 2500 | 1.5 | 100 |
Best Practices for Using Thermal Helmet Mounts
To ensure optimal performance and safety when using thermal helmet mounts, it’s crucial to adhere to the following best practices:
1. Proper Mounting:
Align the mount securely to the helmet, ensuring a snug and stable fit. Proper torque should be applied to all mounting points.
2. Helmet Compatibility:
Select a mount compatible with your specific helmet model. Compatibility ensures optimal fit and stability.
3. Counterbalance:
Add counterweights to balance the thermal device, preventing strain on your neck.
4. Illumination Levels:
Adjust the thermal device’s illumination levels to suit ambient light conditions, enhancing image clarity.
5. Power Management:
Ensure sufficient power to the thermal device by utilizing multiple power sources or carrying spare batteries.
6. Maintenance and Storage:
Regularly clean the mount and thermal device to maintain optimal performance. Store the equipment in a dry, secure location when not in use.
7. Environmental Considerations:
Extreme temperatures can affect the performance of the thermal device. Protect it from excessive heat or cold.
8. Training and Familiarization:
Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the operation of the mount and thermal device before use in the field.
9. Vision Optimization:
Optimize your vision by utilizing optical accessories such as magnifying lenses or prescription lenses to enhance your view through the thermal device. Consider factors like target size, distance, and ambient light conditions to select the most suitable accessories. The table below provides guidelines for choosing magnifying lenses based on typical target sizes and viewing distances:
| Target Size | Viewing Distance | Magnification Lens |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5m | 100m | 1.5x |
| 2m | 150m | 2x |
| 2.5m | 200m | 2.5x |
The Future of Thermal Helmet Mount Technology
Helmet-Mounted Thermal Imaging Devices Become Smaller and Lighter
In 2024, helmet-mounted thermal imaging devices (TIMDs) will continue to shrink in size and weight, making them more comfortable and easy to wear for extended periods. This will be achieved through advancements in sensor technology and the use of lighter materials.
TIMDs Integrate with Other Helmet-Mounted Systems
TIMDs will become more integrated with other helmet-mounted systems, such as night vision goggles and laser rangefinders. This will allow for a more streamlined and efficient user experience.
Improved Battery Life for TIMDs
TIMDs will feature improved battery life, allowing users to operate them for longer periods without needing to change batteries. This will be important for missions that require extended use of thermal imaging.
TIMDs Become More Affordable
As TIMDs become more commonplace, they will become more affordable, making them more accessible to a wider range of users.
TIMDs Enhance Situational Awareness
TIMDs will continue to enhance situational awareness for users, allowing them to see in low-light conditions and detect heat sources in their environment. This will make them essential for a variety of applications, from military operations to search and rescue missions.
TIMDs Improve Thermal Image Quality
TIMDs will offer improved thermal image quality, providing users with more detailed and accurate images. This will make it easier to identify objects and track their movements.
TIMDs Offer Increased Field of View
TIMDs will have increased field of view, allowing users to see a wider area. This will be important for missions that require the user to be able to see in multiple directions.
TIMDs Achieve Higher Resolution
TIMDs will achieve higher resolution, providing users with more detailed images. This will make it easier to identify objects and track their movements.
TIMDs Integrate with Other Sensors
TIMDs will integrate with other sensors, such as night vision goggles and laser rangefinders. This will allow for a more comprehensive and effective user experience.
TIMDs Offer Enhanced Night Vision
TIMDs will offer enhanced night vision, allowing users to see in low-light conditions. This will make them essential for missions that require the user to be able to operate in darkness.
Table 1: Thermal Helmet Mount Technology
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Smaller and lighter | More comfortable and easy to wear |
| Integrated with other systems | More streamlined and efficient user experience |
| Improved battery life | Longer periods of use without needing to change batteries |
| More affordable | More accessible to a wider range of users |
| Enhanced situational awareness | Improved ability to see in low-light conditions and detect heat sources |
| Improved thermal image quality | More detailed and accurate images |
| Increased field of view | Wider area of visibility |
| Higher resolution | More detailed images |
| Integration with other sensors | More comprehensive and effective user experience |
| Enhanced night vision | Improved ability to see in low-light conditions |
Best Thermal Helmet Mount Setup 2024
The best thermal helmet mount setup for 2024 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, some general factors to consider include the type of thermal imaging system you are using, the helmet you are mounting it to, and the environment in which you will be using it.
For example, if you are using a long-range thermal imaging system, you will need a mount that provides a stable and secure platform for the device. If you are using a helmet with a low profile, you will need a mount that is low profile as well. And if you will be using the mount in a harsh environment, you will need a mount that is durable and weather-resistant.
Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your options. Some of the best thermal helmet mount setups for 2024 include the following:
- The Wilcox L4 G24 Mount: This mount is designed for use with the AN/PAS-28 and AN/PVS-31 thermal imaging systems. It is a lightweight and durable mount that provides a secure and stable platform for the device.
- The Norotos INVG mount: This mount is designed for use with the PVS-14 and PVS-31 thermal imaging systems. It is a low-profile mount that is lightweight and durable.
- The Ops-Core VAS Shroud: This mount is designed for use with the AN/PVS-31 thermal imaging system. It is a versatile mount that can be used with a variety of helmets.
People Also Ask About Best Thermal Helmet Mount Setup 2024
What is the best thermal helmet mount setup for long-range shooting?
The best thermal helmet mount setup for long-range shooting is the Wilcox L4 G24 Mount. This mount is designed for use with the AN/PAS-28 and AN/PVS-31 thermal imaging systems. It is a lightweight and durable mount that provides a secure and stable platform for the device.
What is the best thermal helmet mount setup for a low-profile helmet?
The best thermal helmet mount setup for a low-profile helmet is the Norotos INVG mount. This mount is designed for use with the PVS-14 and PVS-31 thermal imaging systems. It is a low-profile mount that is lightweight and durable.
What is the best thermal helmet mount setup for a harsh environment?
The best thermal helmet mount setup for a harsh environment is the Ops-Core VAS Shroud. This mount is designed for use with the AN/PVS-31 thermal imaging system. It is a versatile mount that can be used with a variety of helmets and is also durable and weather-resistant.
