Introduction

The Modular Integrated Communications Helmet (MICH) is a modular helmet system that provides ballistic, fragmentation, aural and impact protection, while being night vision, communications and NBC equipment compatible. Originally designed for the US Special Operations Command (US SOCOM) as a replacement for the PASGT helmet, MICH is currently standard issue combat helmet system within US Army units. The Marine Corps did not adopt MICH, instead replacing their PASGT helmets with a new Lightweight Helmet (LWH).

The MICH is smaller and lighter than the PASGT model, offering greater situational awareness and less obstruction of the wearer's vision. MICH system uses a new type of Kevlar providing improved ballistic protection as well as a pad/four-point retention system presenting greater impact protection and comfort for the wearer.

Live Resin is a resin company from Russia, specialized in producing high quality weapon and accessory sets. This review covers their 1/35 scale US Army ACH/MICH helmet with cover (LRE-35021).

Review

The US Army ACH/MICH helmet with cover set is packed in a zip-lock bag and safely secured between a firm cardboard backing (9X10cm). The CAD box art on the front displays all the kit parts, while the one on the back lists Live Resin offerings which can be used to upgrade the basic MICH configuration: US Army ACH/MICH helmet accessories set (LRE-35025), US Army NVG PVS 14 Monocular (LRE-35026), US Army NVG PVS Binocular (LRE-35027) and US Army AN/PRC-148 MIBTR (LRE-35029).

The kit consists of 6 helmets and a casting block including 6 NVG PVS mounts... 12 parts in total. The pieces are molded in grey resin and the cast is perfect: there are no air-bubbles or seam lines, only a small amount of super-thin flash around the NVG mounts. Be careful when cleaning the NVG mounts off their carrier block as those are very delicate.

The MICH helmets in this set are sculpted in 3 different configurations (2 helmets for each configuration). All helmets are fitted with a helmet camouflage cover and a night vision device mounting bracket on the front. Also, all helmets feature an elastic band around them which usually sports reflective 'cat eye' patches on the back intended to prevent friendly fire incidents. One pair of helmets is fitted with two straps on the rear to keep protective eyewear in place, while the other pair features PETZL Tactikka headlamp, a compact and practical lamp with adjustable lighting modes. Tactikka lamp can be fitted with different filters, ensuring the use in night vision goggle environment.
The NVG Helmet Mount assembly allows the attachment of the AN/PVS night vision systems directly to the front of the MICH. The mount incorporates standard flip-up/flip-down capability, allowing the user to move the NVG up and out of the way.

The characteristic shape of MICH helmet is represented well in this set. Helmet covers are rendered very nicely with all the intricate details like hook & loop fasteners and button holes sculpted to perfection. The NVG mount assemblies fit well to their corresponding place on the MICH, while the helmet itself fits precisely to all US Army Head Sets available from Live Resin. All three different MICH configurations are depicted very realistically in scale. The changes between the different helmet configurations presented in this set are minimal, but still offer a nice subtle variety for upgrading 1/35 scale modern US Army figures. Combining this set with other Live Resin helmet accessories provides modelers everything they would ever need for "pimping up" the MICH system.

I added several pictures to this review to show the results which can be achieved by combining various Live Resin accessory sets on a single figure. Looks pretty cool, doesn't it? Most of these sets are (or will be) reviewed on Armorama, so be sure to check them out here.

Conclusion

Live Resin released number of different sets featuring ACH/MICH helmet in 1/35 scale. The kit reviewed here (LRE-35021) features 6 MICH helmets in 3 slightly different basic configurations and 6 night vision mounts. The resin cast is absolutely wonderful with well defined and accurate details. With some extra helmet accessories from Live Resin, these MICH helmets can be upgraded to almost any possible setup.

Thanks to Yaroslav from Live Resin for this review sample.

References

Global Security - MICH
Operation Helmet
Petzl