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11/23/2009 2:06:55 AM EDT
Anybody know of a head mount thats more comfortable than the US issue ones? Ive seen pics of one that seems to have pads that come down the side of the face, but have never seen one for sale. Thanks
11/23/2009 6:10:44 AM EDT
[#1]
We find the PT A-ALPHA helmets the most comfortable over the "skull crushers" to date.
11/23/2009 11:03:40 AM EDT
[#2]
We also sell the Norotos Face Mask if you don't want to wear a helmet.  These are compatible with Boonie Hats.  They are much more comfortable and spread the weight out over your head more evenly.

Norotos Face Mask
11/24/2009 3:14:37 AM EDT
[#3]
Quoted:
We also sell the Norotos Face Mask if you don't want to wear a helmet.  These are compatible with Boonie Hats.  They are much more comfortable and spread the weight out over your head more evenly.

Norotos Face Mask



Awesome, I had no idea anyting like this exists!

11/24/2009 6:24:02 AM EDT
[#4]
Chip, how comfortable is the Norotos headgear when compared with a properly fitted TC-2001 or PT Alpha?

It seems that it would require in-the-ear hearing protection and/or comms versus over-the-ear?
11/24/2009 7:44:15 AM EDT
[#5]
Quoted:
Chip, how comfortable is the Norotos headgear when compared with a properly fitted TC-2001 or PT Alpha?

It seems that it would require in-the-ear hearing protection and/or comms versus over-the-ear?


It was developed initially for special ops guys as an improvement over the original face mask used with the PVS-7.  I ran it with some MSA Sordins and did not have much issue.  I found the mask to interfere more with my shooting glasses than the earpro, but like the interference between shooting glasses and ear muffs, once adjusted, there is no real issue.  It is a monumental step up from the skull crusher.

One thing I did note:  I have a jewish nose (the only thing I regret about my heritage).  Because of this, I have a deviated septum which causes me to be a little more inclined to sinus pressure.  The pads of the face mask, when properly adjusted, seemed to place some pressure on my sinus areas.  As long as I breathed through my mouth, I was ok

As to comfort level compared to helmets: it is all in your preference.  Those of us who have worn ballistic helmets for work know that they are heavy and cause neck strain.  In short, they are more of a case of making the best out of something that is inherently uncomfortable.  Alpha helmets are very comfortable and lightweight.  But, some guys have said they feel silly running around with it if they are not on the set of Black Hawk Down.  So, the Face Mask is a great alternative.  It is, from my experience, the most comfortable head mount available.

11/24/2009 6:59:07 PM EDT
[#6]
Quoted:
It was developed initially for special ops guys as an improvement over the original face mask used with the PVS-7.  I ran it with some MSA Sordins and did not have much issue.  I found the mask to interfere more with my shooting glasses than the earpro, but like the interference between shooting glasses and ear muffs, once adjusted, there is no real issue.  It is a monumental step up from the skull crusher.
One thing I did note:  I have a jewish nose (the only thing I regret about my heritage).  Because of this, I have a deviated septum which causes me to be a little more inclined to sinus pressure.  The pads of the face mask, when properly adjusted, seemed to place some pressure on my sinus areas.  As long as I breathed through my mouth, I was ok
As to comfort level compared to helmets: it is all in your preference.  Those of us who have worn ballistic helmets for work know that they are heavy and cause neck strain.  In short, they are more of a case of making the best out of something that is inherently uncomfortable.  Alpha helmets are very comfortable and lightweight.  But, some guys have said they feel silly running around with it if they are not on the set of Black Hawk Down.  So, the Face Mask is a great alternative.  It is, from my experience, the most comfortable head mount available.


Many thanks, this review is very helpful!
I presume running it with a PVS-14 would be the same, and there would be no issues flipping the PVS-14 up to engage a target with the rifle mounted D-760.
You see, I like the Recce mounted with the D-760, and with the IWAL2 IR laser for use with the head mounted PVS-14. I also wear shooting glasses as eye protection is mandatory.

Again, thanks for any reply!
Edwin

11/24/2009 7:40:29 PM EDT
[#7]
Edwin-

The flip up feature is the same as on a helmet.  So, you won't have any issues with it interfering with a scope in the "up" position.   There are two versions available for the face mask.  The one on our website has a bayonet attachment for PVS-14s and PVS-7's.  But, there is a dovetail version for the PVS-15 and 18.  We just feature the Dovetail version since most folks have 14's or 7's.  

However, if you have discovered the Norotos Dual Dovetail Mount, you can use it to hook up a PVS-14 to the dovetail facemask.  Another bit of interesting trivia:  If you have a Wilcox helmet mount setup with the Wilcox PVS-14 Arm or the Wilcox PVS-7 Adapter Shoe, they will work with the Norotos Dovetail Facemask.  However: we won't be held responsible for the consequences of mixing two competitors' products... "Human Sacrifices, dogs and cats living together, MASS HYSTERIA!"

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