Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The M1 helmet is a combat helmet that was used by the United States military from World War II until 1985, when it was succeeded by the PASGT helmet. For over forty years, the M1 was standard issue for the U.S. military. The M1 helmet has become an icon of the American military, with its design inspiring other militaries around the world.
Vietnam War era M-1 helmet shells have a set of swivel (movable) chinstrap loops called bales and a manganese steel rim. These rims had non-magnetic qualities that reduced the chance of error readings when placed around certain sensitive equipment (such as a compass). In WWII the shells had Stainless Steel rims, however these would easily lose paint, and the shine produced without paint was a liability.
This helmet is a fair Vietnam War issued example and still retains most of its original period parts, and the shell has the original Green finish. The helmet's heat lot code is incomplete, however it does appear to be an Ingersoll manufactured example. Unfortunately it looks as if the helmet cover was added to the shell in order to hide the extensive stress cracking and oxidation around the dome. Another addition are the late to post war style “angled” chinstraps, often seen on helmets from the 1980s. We believe that these were added to give the helmet a “fuller” appearance while on display.
It is equipped with a standard Reversible Camouflage cover, which has a contract date code for 1974. It is held in place by the elastic band that retains the cover. The helmet, cover, shell, and liner are all correct for a Vietnam war helmet.
The helmet comes complete with high pressure early Vietnam War era liner, which
is stamped with W (Westinghouse) inside the crown though was overstamped with the Firestone “F”. The liner does not have a frontal eyelet, indicating that it is a post Korean war manufacture.
The included reversible camouflage cover is in very good service worn condition, complete with the elastic securing band. There is a bit of wear through around the edges, and overall fading, typical of a cover that saw actual service in the field.
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine Vietnam War issue ones. Ready to add to your collection and display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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