The Compass Armor HAFM-K3A is a Level IIIA hard armor ballistic face mask built from aramid fiber (Twaron or Kevlar) and engineered to deliver front facial protection against handgun threats up to .44 Magnum. Weighing 1.3 lbs (0.6 kg), the HAFM-K3A attaches directly to compatible ballistic helmets via a five-point elastic system, extending coverage from the helmet shell down across the face. Available in black.

Who this is for

• Tactical operators and law enforcement: personnel who require facial ballistic coverage in high-risk entry or breaching scenarios where a helmet alone leaves the face exposed.
• Security professionals: those pairing a ballistic helmet with additional modular protection for close-quarters threat environments.
• Preparedness-minded civilians: individuals building a layered ballistic system around an existing Level IIIA or higher helmet and seeking compatible face coverage.

Compatibility with parent armor

The HAFM-K3A attaches to ballistic helmets using a five-point elastic attachment system. The elastic straps allow the user to dial in fit across a range of helmet sizes and shell profiles, making it broadly compatible with standard ACH, MICH, and similar helmet cuts. Additional padding at the forehead and along either side of the face stabilizes the mask against the helmet interface and distributes impact energy away from the face. Contact us if you need fit confirmation for a specific helmet model.

Function

The mask provides front facial protection against Level IIIA ballistic threats. The aramid hard armor construction stops 9mm, .357 SIG, and .44 Magnum rounds. Padding incorporated at the forehead and on either side of the face maximizes shock absorption from ballistic impacts. The ergonomic profile keeps the mask seated correctly during movement, reducing shift or gap at the face-to-helmet junction.

NIJ designation

The HAFM-K3A is rated at NIJ Level IIIA, covering the full handgun threat spectrum through .44 Magnum. It does not provide protection against rifle-caliber rounds. This designation follows the NIJ 0101.06 threat level framework.

Specifications

Frequently asked questions

What does this face mask work with?

The HAFM-K3A attaches to ballistic helmets via a five-point elastic system. It is designed to be broadly compatible with standard tactical helmet profiles, including ACH and MICH cuts. Contact us if you need confirmation for a specific helmet before ordering.

Is this face mask NIJ-rated on its own?

Yes. The HAFM-K3A carries a Level IIIA protection rating, covering handgun threats through .44 Magnum. This rating applies to the mask as a standalone ballistic component, independent of the helmet it attaches to.

Does this stop rifle rounds?

No. Level IIIA protection covers handgun threats — 9mm, .357 SIG, and .44 Magnum. Rifle-caliber rounds exceed the rated threat level of this mask. A hard armor rifle plate is required for rifle-caliber protection.

How does the fit adjustment work?

The mask uses a five-point elastic attachment system. Each attachment point adjusts independently, allowing the user to fit the mask to different helmet sizes and head profiles. Additional padding at the forehead and sides helps stabilize the mask and maintain consistent coverage during movement.

How heavy is this mask and will it affect helmet balance?

The HAFM-K3A weighs 1.3 lbs (0.6 kg). Adding front-mounted facial armor at this weight will shift the helmet's center of balance forward. Users should ensure their helmet retention system is properly tensioned before use with the mask attached.

Can this be shipped to my state?

The HAFM-K3A is a ballistic armor accessory subject to applicable state and federal restrictions. It cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor laws. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, anyone with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor.