WWII German Army M-35 Single Decal Helmet -
As the war progressed things started to get difficult in Germany. The availability of materials
started to become an issue. In addition, the bombing of factories by Allied forces was putting
pressure on the ability of the german industrial complex to produce weapons.
In view of the situation at the time it was decided to develop a new helmet that was easier to
produce. The M-42, also known as M-1942, helmet was born. Some of the changes that were implemented
included the elimination of the rolled rim. The neckguard and the visor
were also shortened. These steps made the manufacturing process faster and more effective.
The helmet has a leather liner with multiple fingers that point towards the center. The flaps are
secured together via the use of a string. This is how the user would adjust the placement of the
helmet on the head.
The chin strap was made of leather and had a metal buckle at the end. A section of it remains
in this helmet. The rim of the helmet is straight, not rolled. The rim had to be smooth-out
to avoid any sharp edges that could cut the soldier.
This is a German WWII single decal Luftwaffe (Air Force) helmet. Of field gray
color. This is the M-42 style construction. With a leather liner, still retaining a
single end of the chin strap.
This is a closer picture of the Luftwaffe eagle sticker. These items are heavily reproduced. However,
it usually easy to detect them because you can feel the edges when they are applied.
The modern German helmet saw its birth during World War One. Its design was so advanced
for the time that the German government saw it fit for the same basic design to be re-employed
during World War Two.
The German helmet of World Wat Two has become one of the most recognizable silhouttes of war.
The helmetss of the Third Reich came in a variety of designs. There were approximatelly
9 different types developed. Even the non-military helmets often displayed the
swastika as a means to show support of the Nazi party. The helmet was constructed of a
combination of metal and leather.
|
|
Some of the helmets have markings stamped in the inside of the rim. The markings provide information
such as the serial number, name of manufacturer, helmet size, etc. A
markings guide has been provided to help
the collector and enthusiast gain a better understanding of their meaning. It is important to
note that not all possibilities of markings are covered in that section.
The system for retaining the liner in place remained very similar to that used in the M-35 model.
An aluminum band was held in place by rivets. The leather liner attached to the band. the rivets
are visible in the outside dome. A rivet is also employed as an air vent to provide air circulation
when the helmet was being worn.
WWII German helmets are currently being
reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because
the quality of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with
the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of this headgear.
Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of
the collectible.
If you have an interest is seeing other American military headgear, you can do so by
going to our WWII German helmets
identification guide. Where we cover Army, Navy, Luftwaffe and other organizations.
|