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 the produced without paint was a liability.
This helmet is a fine example and still retains most of its original Vietnam War parts, and the shell has been overpainted with light gray blue, indicating issue to the U.S. Navy.
The helmet's heat lot code of I 8741 is clearly visible inside the shell, which indicates manufacture by Ingersoll Rand Products, who produced a total of 3,174,296 helmet shells between 1965-1968 during the Vietnam Period. The helmet still has the original OD Green chin strap, with the correct modified buckle implemented during the Korean war and used until M1 helmet production stopped.
The helmet comes complete with high pressure Vietnam War era liner, which is stamped with the W Westinghouse Company logo on the top over 106. The rigging design of Vietnam war era liners moved to three straps that cross over in the middle inside a loop on one strap. Length and fit are adjusted by buckles at the end of each strap. This suspension is held tightly within the M-1 helmet liner by rivets and a series of triangular "A" washers. The canvas rigging is in good shape, however rust on two of the A washers led to the canvas tearing out. The sweatband is present and in good used condition, complete with markings on the back indicating it was made under a 1969 contract. The liner chin strap is unfortunately missing, which is not uncommon.
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine Vietnam War issue Navy helmets. Ready to add to your collection and display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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