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 stainless steel rim. These rims were both rust resistant and had non-magnetic qualities that reduced the chance of error readings when placed around certain sensitive equipment (such as a compass).
This helmet is a fine example and still retains all of its original Vietnam War Era parts and the shell has all original corked grain paint.
The liner is correct high pressure 1950s Korean War production liner, and is marked on the top by manufacturer CAPAC. Liners nearly identical in construction to World War II examples were produced between 1951 and 1953 during the Korean War by the Micarta Division of Westinghouse and CAPAC Manufacturing. These liners differ in that color of the HBT webbing was changed from khaki or Olive Drab #3 to a darker green color known as Olive Drab #7. Much later, liners switched to using stronger synthetic webbing and had improved neck support.
The paratrooper rigging is intact and in great shape, with original markings visible on the back of many of the web components. They are a bit unclear from use and age, but all the components are solid. It has both the rear support as well as the paratrooper chin strap, which is in addition to the standard chin strap. The regular chin strap also has extensions with snaps on the end, which secure the liner to the shell for paratrooper use.
The USMC reversible camouflage cover is original and in very good condition. It has some stains and small holes, but is definitely solid. It also has slots for insertion of branches, twigs, and other items to increase the camouflage ability. It is marked on the underside of one of the flaps:
COVER HELMET CAMOUFLAGE
CONTRACT No. OSA 100 69 0 1927
FSN 8415-261-6833
This would most likely indicate 1969 or 1970 production.
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine Vietnam War issue ones from the USMC. Almost certainly to appreciate in value year after year!
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