How strong is this Russian Titanium helmet? The Altyn Helmet

Published on February 27, 2022
Duration: 26:26

This comprehensive review of the Russian Altyn helmet, presented by Garand Thumb, details its construction and ballistic performance. The helmet features a 3mm titanium shell with an aramid liner, rated for pistol and fragmentation threats. Testing reveals it stops 9mm and .44 Magnum rounds but fails against rifle calibers like 5.56x45mm and 7.62x39mm. Despite its robust construction for its intended role, its significant weight and lack of rifle protection are noted as drawbacks compared to modern alternatives.

Quick Summary

The Russian Altyn helmet, featuring a 3mm titanium shell and aramid liner, is rated for pistol and fragmentation threats. While it stops handgun rounds, testing by Garand Thumb shows it fails against rifle calibers and its visor cracks under birdshot impact. Its significant weight is also a drawback compared to modern gear.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Altyn Helmet
  2. 01:28Technical Construction
  3. 02:33Test Firearms Overview
  4. 04:36Visor Testing: Birdshot
  5. 06:20Fragmentation and Spall Testing
  6. 09:24Ballistic Testing: 00 Buckshot
  7. 11:03Ballistic Testing: 9mm NATO
  8. 13:13Ballistic Testing: .44 Magnum
  9. 15:11Rifle Testing: 5.56x45mm
  10. 19:01Rifle Testing: 7.62x39mm
  11. 21:47Rifle Testing: .308 Winchester
  12. 23:38Conclusion and Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Altyn helmet made of and what is it rated for?

The Altyn helmet features a 3mm titanium shell reinforced with an aramid backer. It is historically rated for fragmentation and standard pistol rounds, not rifle-caliber threats.

How does the Altyn helmet perform against rifle rounds?

The Altyn helmet fails to stop rifle rounds. Testing showed penetrations from 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm, and .308 Winchester, indicating it is not rifle-rated.

What are the main drawbacks of the Altyn helmet?

The primary drawbacks of the Altyn helmet are its extreme weight, approximately 15 lbs, and its lack of protection against rifle fire, making it outdated compared to modern composite helmets.

Did the Altyn helmet's visor withstand ballistic testing?

The Altyn helmet's ballistic visor stopped 12-gauge birdshot but sustained significant surface cracking and spider-webbing, which would impair vision.

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