Ops-Core FAST Helmet System Operator's Manual

About Your Ops-Core FAST Helmet System

The Ops-Core® FAST® Helmet Systems are innovative and advanced headborne protection platforms offering a range of protection from blunt impact, frag, and ballistic threats. FAST Helmet Systems seamlessly integrate with Ops-Core total headborne system solutions, including situational awareness, optical, and respiratory protection products.

Available Shell Cuts:

The Ops-Core FAST helmet is available in two primary shell cuts:

• High Cut: Offers maximum compatibility with communication headsets and other accessories.
• Mid Cut: Provides a balance between protection and accessory mounting capabilities.

Diagram Description: Two images of the Ops-Core FAST helmet are shown. The left image displays the 'High Cut' version, and the right image displays the 'Mid Cut' version.

Accessory Kit (Included):

The helmet system includes a comprehensive accessory kit for customization and comfort:

• 1/4" Comfort Pads
• 1/2" Comfort Pads
• 3/4" Comfort Pads
• Wing-Loc Adapter ?
• Standard Nape Pad
• Cable Ties x10 ?
• Split Rings x6 ?
• Picatinny Adapter ?

Helmet System Components

The Ops-Core FAST Helmet System is comprised of several key components:

Diagram Description: Two views of the helmet are shown. The top view is an exterior profile, labeling: Modular Bungee Shroud, Shroud Bungee, Exterior Loop, PowerPath ARC Rail, and Low-Profile Head-Loc™ Chinstrap. The bottom view is an interior profile, labeling: Vented Lux Liner, Front Brow Comfort Pad, Adjustable Comfort Pads, Universal Fitband, and Occ-Dial™ Adjustment Knob.

• Modular Bungee Shroud: For stabilizing Night Vision Goggles (NVGs).
• Exterior Loop: For attaching accessories to the exterior of the helmet.
• PowerPath ARC Rail: Side-mounted rails for quick accessory attachment.
• Low-Profile Head-Loc™ Chinstrap: Secures the helmet to the user's head.
• Vented Lux Liner: Provides comfort and ventilation.
• Front Brow Comfort Pad: Adds comfort to the forehead area.
• Adjustable Comfort Pads: Customizable padding for fit and comfort.
• Universal Fitband: Internal band for adjusting helmet size.
• Occ-Dial™ Adjustment Knob: Fine-tunes the fitband for a secure fit.

Sizing Guide

FAST helmets are designed to fit a wide range of users. Use the following guides to determine the correct helmet and chinstrap size.

Helmet Sizing Guide

Measure your head circumference to find the appropriate helmet size.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows how to measure head circumference, with a tape measure positioned around the head, just above the ears and eyebrows.

Chinstrap Sizing Guide

If a different chinstrap size is needed, consult the guide below. Contact Ops-Core customer service for assistance.

Retention System Operation

Proper adjustment of the retention system ensures a secure and comfortable fit.

1. Fasten the Chinstrap: Put the helmet on and fasten the chinstrap buckle.

   Diagram Description: A close-up view of the chinstrap buckle being fastened.

2. Adjust the Occ-Dial™: Use your thumb to rotate the Occ-Dial™ Adjustment Knob to tighten the fitband until it is comfortably snug.

   Diagram Description: A side view of the helmet interior showing the Occ-Dial™ Adjustment Knob being turned.

3. Adjust Rear Head-Loc Sliders: With both hands, pull the two Rear Head-Loc Sliders on the lower webbing straps toward your chin until snug.

   Note: Hold only the plastic sliders, not the webbing, for best results.

   Diagram Description: A side view of the helmet showing the Rear Head-Loc Sliders being pulled forward.

4. Adjust Front Head-Loc Sliders: With both hands, pull the two Front Head-Loc Sliders on the webbing straps from the front temples toward your chin until snug.

   Diagram Description: A front view of the helmet showing the Front Head-Loc Sliders being pulled inward.

Comfort Pad Kit

Comfort Pad Adjustment

The included Pad Kit allows for adjustment to maximize the fit, comfort, and stability of your Ops-Core FAST Helmet.

Diagram Description: Three sets of helmet pads are shown, labeled 1/4", 1/2", and 3/4" thickness. A second diagram illustrates how these pads can be arranged inside the helmet for optimal fit.

Pad thicknesses can be mixed and matched to achieve the most comfortable fit and best stability.

Height Adjustment

The distance from the top of the eyebrow to the bottom of the fitband should be approximately 0.5" to 1".

• If the helmet sits too low, remove the 1/2" top pads and install the 3/4" top pads.
• If the helmet sits at an uncomfortable angle, adjust the top pads or use a combination of 1/4", 1/2", and 3/4" pads until it sits correctly.

Accessory Integration

Attaching Accessories to the Helmet

There are three primary methods for attaching accessories to the Ops-Core FAST Helmet:

• PowerPath Accessory Rail Connectors (ARCs): Mounted on the sides for secure accessory attachment.
• Modular Bungee Shroud: Located at the front, designed for stabilizing NVGs.
• Exterior Loop: Versatile attachment points on the helmet shell.

These components provide convenient and secure ways to quickly attach and detach various accessories.

Diagram Description: A side profile of the helmet is shown, with labels pointing to the Modular Bungee Shroud, PowerPath ARC Rail, and Exterior Loop.

PowerPath ARC Rails

PowerPath ARC Rails are mounted to the sides of the helmet, allowing for quick and secure attachment or detachment of various headborne accessories.

Diagram Description: An illustration of a PowerPath ARC Rail. Labels indicate 'Cable Tie Routing' and 'Counterweight / Battery Pack Strap Routing'. The rail is marked with sections A, B, and C.

ARC Adapters

The following adapters are commonly used for attaching accessories to the Ops-Core FAST Helmet:

• Picatinny Adapter ?: For mounting accessories compatible with Picatinny rails.
• Wing-Loc Adapter ?: Provides a base for mounting various headborne accessories.
• O2 Strap Kit ? (Not Included): For secure snap-in attachment of Para-Flite and Carleton O2 masks.
• 36mm Goggle Swivel Clips ?️ (Not Included): For quick attachment of goggles to the back rail.

Rail Sections:

• A - Top Rail: Accommodates Picatinny and Wing-Loc Adapters.
• B - Rail Corner: Allows for instant and secure snap-in attachment of specific masks.
• C - Back Rail: For quick clipping of goggle swivel clips, allowing rotation.

Cable Integration

PowerPath ARC Rails provide a protective, snag-free cable management solution for NVG cables.

1. Remove PowerPath ARCs: Use a screwdriver ? to remove the PowerPath ARC Rail from the helmet as shown.

   Diagram Description: A screwdriver is shown removing an ARC rail from the helmet.

2. Route the Cable: Following the diagram, route the cable through the underside of the PowerPath ARC Rail. The back of the rail offers two options for exiting the cable: upper and lower.

   Diagram Description: An ARC rail is shown with a cable routed through its underside, indicating upper and lower exit points at the rear.

3. Reattach the Rail: Reattach the rail to the helmet, ensuring the cable remains seated in the routing channels.

Modular Bungee Shroud

About the Modular Bungee Shroud

The Modular Bungee Shroud (MBS) mounts to Ops-Core FAST helmets using the standard 3-hole pattern. It features an integrated Night Vision Goggle (NVG) bungee that does not interfere with other accessories, offering a low-profile option for stabilizing NVGs. The MBS also includes a removable metal insert for various mounting solutions without fully removing the shroud.

Attaching Stabilizing Bungees to NVGs

Some NVGs may require the use of the included Split Rings ? to attach the carabiner bungee clips.

Diagram Description: Two images show NVGs attached to the helmet's bungee system. The left image shows NVGs attached with Split Rings, and the right image shows NVGs attached without Split Rings.

Exterior Loop

Exterior Loop Accessory Attachment

To attach an accessory, apply hook fastener to the bottom of the device and place it on top of the loop on the outside of the Ops-Core FAST Helmet shell.

Diagram Description: Three views of the helmet are shown highlighting the Exterior Loop: a side view, a rear view, and a top view.

Comms Headsets

Comms Headset Integration

The Vented Lux Liner is compatible with a variety of comms headsets and hearing protection devices.

When using the helmet with a communications headset, remove the pads in the center channel of the Vented Lux Liner to allow sufficient room for the headset's headband.

Diagram Description: The interior of the helmet is shown, with arrows pointing to the center pads that should be removed for headset integration. A second image shows the helmet with a comms headset attached.

Maintenance

Before and After Each Use

Perform the following recommended maintenance procedures before and after each use. If any defects are found, damaged components should be replaced before use.

1. Clean the helmet with a mild detergent and water. ? (The whole helmet can be rinsed in fresh water.)
2. Check that the chinstrap screws are tight using a flathead screwdriver ?.
3. Clean the Exterior Loop for dust and dirt by using air pressure ?.
4. Visually check the Modular Bungee Shroud and PowerPath ARC Rails for signs of breakage.
5. Visually check the Fitband for signs of breakage.
6. Check that the Occ-Dial™ Adjustment Knob works properly.
7. Check that the chinstrap does not have any damage and that the buckle latches and releases properly.

Recommended Replacement Schedule

Aside from damage or defects, it is recommended that the following components be replaced according to the schedule below:

Note: Helmets frequently exposed to hot/humid conditions, salt fog, or spray may require more frequent inspection and maintenance/replacement due to harsh environments.

Replacement Parts & Support

Ops-Core's dedicated customer service and support professionals are highly trained on all aspects of their products. They are available to assist with order status, billing, warranties, returns, replacement parts, and technical support.

Ops-Core Customer Service:

? +1 888.894.1755

✉️ groundcs@gentexcorp.com

Operator Notes

This section is provided for operators to record important notes, observations, or modifications related to their Ops-Core FAST Helmet System.

(Space for user notes)

Warning & Warranty

Warning

⚠️ This helmet provides LIMITED protection for the head and does not offer protection against neck, spinal, or certain types of brain injuries caused by rotational forces. Some hazards can exceed the helmet's specified ability to provide protection, potentially causing serious injury or death. The helmet is designed to absorb impact energy through partial destruction of the shell, liner, or harness. Any helmet subjected to severe impact should be replaced, even if damage is not readily apparent. This helmet is designed to help protect from bumps, scratches, and concussion. It is not intended for use in white water classes 5 and 6 as defined by the International Canoe Federation. For adequate protection, the helmet must be fit and adjusted properly.

Inspect the helmet before each use. Ensure shell components are not damaged, cracked, deformed, loose, or showing excessive wear. Do not remove or alter front, top, side, or back impact pads, or modify any original component parts unless recommended by the manufacturer. Replacing 1/2" impact pads with 3/4" pads will not adversely affect impact performance, but removing or repositioning pads completely could affect impact attenuation. Do not adapt the helmet for attachments not recommended by the manufacturer. Do not apply paint, solvents, adhesives, or self-adhesive labels unless instructed, as they can degrade helmet integrity and performance. Clean the shell with soap and lukewarm water. Internal comfort pads may be hand washed and air dried.

Warranty

Gentex warrants that all ballistic helmet shells will be free from defects in material or workmanship under normal use for five (5) years from the date of delivery. All helmet components, accessories, peripherals, and parts are warranted for one (1) year from the date of delivery. Warranty repairs will be performed at Gentex's factory or designated facilities. Gentex covers labor and material charges for defects found within the warranty scope. If Gentex determines no fault exists or damage is due to user negligence, the user agrees to pay for repair charges.

This warranty is the sole warranty provided by Gentex, whether expressed or implied. Gentex disclaims all other warranties, including implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Gentex shall not be liable for incidental, consequential, or special damages. User remedies are limited to repair or replacement of non-conforming units or parts, not exceeding the total purchase price.

Tampering, misuse, or negligence voids the warranty. The warranty is also void if the user makes internal changes, uses incorrect power supply, attaches external devices that exceed tolerance, or removes/defaces the serial number plate. Operation that exceeds design tolerance also voids the warranty.