Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The SSh (Russian: Стальной шлем - Stal'noy shlem or Steel Helmet) 40, also referred to as the M40 (Model 40), was the last and most commonly seen in-service helmet used by the Soviet Union during World War II. The only external difference between the SSh-39 and the SSh-40 were the six rivets near the bottom of the helmet, as opposed to the three near the top of the SSh-39 shell. Rivet placement of the SSh-40 was due to a newly introduced liner, simpler and more sturdy than the previous versions.
The liner consisted of three oilcloth pads connected with a cotton drawstring for size adjustment. The chinstrap is cloth and connected to d-rings on each side of the shell by tabs. The chinstrap ends were connected with a slip buckle, and a semi-circular metal piece was clamped to the end of the long chinstrap. Unlike the SSh-36 and SSh-39, the SSh-40 was only manufactured in three sizes, 1–3.
This is a very good example complete with liner and chinstrap, all correct, and in very nice service worn condition. The outer shell has been repainted at least once, and there is a very nice Soviet Red Star on the front, with the Hammer & Sickle emblem inside.
The inside of the shell bears multiple original issue stamps, and the rear of the shell has 2 - 4271 stamped into the shell. There is also a complete paint stamp on the back, which gives the size as P - 2, which is a Medium, fitting approximately size 58-60cm. Below this is the date 1948г (г is short for год, the Russian word for Year).
Condition is very good, with a lovely worn patina that simply cannot be duplicated. This was not a helmet that spent its life inside of an armory.
Genuine examples of this model helmet are getting harder to find, especially in this condition. Ready to display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
