Item: ONSV6508
Original Korean War Era U.S. Air Force Gentex P-1A Flying Helmet with P-3 Visor
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Original Item: One-of-a-kind. The P-1, introduced in 1948 and made by Switlik Parachute Co. and Paramount Rubber Co. was the first USAF standard hard flight helmet for fighter aircraft. The P-1 initially used the type HS-38 headset, somewhat later changed to HS-38A.
The P-1 shell was constructed of pressure and heat molded laminated cotton duck fabric that had been saturated with phenolic-resin (similar to Bakelite). This helmet did not have a fixed (rivetted) chin strap as did later upgraded versions, but instead could be secured to the head through use of a chin cup that snapped onto the lowest of the snaps on the oxygen mask mounting tabs. A-13A or A-14 oxygen mask were worn together the P-1 as well as black rubber goggles B-8.
The P-1A adopted in 1949 was basically an advanced version of the P-1 with introduction of a fixed chin-strap, addition of a nape-strap, attachment of the HS-38 headset with Nylon cord. A further modification involved upgrading of the oxygen mask leather attachment tabs. Ruber farmed goggles of the B-8 type were normally used with the The P-1A which in some cases has been later retrofitted with P-3 style visor. The P-1A was utilized with A-13A and A-14 oxygen mask.
This example has been retrofitted with a later P-3 Style Visor. it has also been custom painted cherry red with blue lighting bolts. Offered in very good condition.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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