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 all of its original Vietnam War parts. It does look to have been repainted, but still has a very nice textured exterior coat. Due to the layers of paint on the inside, the heat lot number cannot be seen. There is also some paint flaking on the inner crown.
The correct "high pressure" style M-1 Helmet liner was manufactured by Mine Safety Appliances of Evans City, Pennsylvania, as identified by an embossed stylized MSA logo in the crown. It looks to be a Korean War era liner, without the front eyelet hole, but still retaining the suspension with the top tie strap. The rigging is the correct darker OD Green #7, secured by "A" washers. The sweatband is present, but does show some wear. It has an NSN number on the back, though there is no date. The liner chin strap is unfortunately missing. The front of the liner is marked "U.S. ARMY" in marker, so it is possible that this helmet was used by the U.S. army, and an "appropriated" camouflage cover.
The shell chin strap is original, and the USMC cover is original and in good service worn condition. It comes complete with the elastic securing strap. It has some stains and dirt, as well as wear around the edge, and the stitching on the top has pulled out on a 4 inch section of the center seam. It is marked on the underside of one of the flaps with the contract information:
COVER HELMET CAMOUFLAGE
DSA-I-3839-64-C
8415-261-6833
These helmets have become increasingly difficult to find in recent years, especially genuine Vietnam War issue ones with USMC covers. Almost certainly to appreciate in value year after year!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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