A method for testing a helmet for effectiveness of user protection includes moving a load along a predetermined path, supporting a target body at an impact location in the predetermined path, the target body including a head model and a helmet disposed on the head model, and impacting the target body with a force generated by the moving of the load. The impacting of the target body entails contacting the target body with an impactor free to move perpendicularly and tangentially relative to a surface of the target body. The supporting of the target body is at least reduced, if not eliminated, before or during the impact of the impactor with the target body at the location. Forces generated are automatically measured or sensed during the impact of the impactor with the target body at the location.