German Helmets of World War II: History and Description

Even on non-military helmets, a swastika is often depicted to demonstrate support for the Nazi party. German helmets of World War II have a great similarity, and when trying to determine the type of model it is important to consider. Small changes can be the only difference between one type of helmet and another. Knowing the details that make up the German helmet helps to find out which model you have on hand.

Short story

During the 1920s and 30s, the German government began to redesign the steel German helmets of the First World War in an attempt to improve their appearance and function. The vast majority of models of steel helmets were destroyed, in accordance with the terms of the Treaty of Versailles. Some helmets remained on active duty to meet the small military needs of Germany. As a result, there was a significant deficit.

M1917 were restored and introduced as a specially patented "transitional" model for parades and common use. The remaining stocks of wartime (M1916, M1917, M1918) were restored for the military and police. They were used before the National Socialists came to power in 1933.

In 1935, the military approved a new combat helmet Stahlhelm, known as the M1935. It was like the M1917, but it was lighter, more functional, and also significantly updated.

The geometric dimensions of the German helmet of World War II decreased, in comparison with the models of the First World War. The helmet has become more compact. The M1935 helmet evolved several times during the WWII. Each change resulted in several newer variations, although each model had the same basic design. At least three models were made exclusively for combat: M1935, M1940, M1942. All three versions of this helmet were worn during the Second World War.

German helmet of the Second World War. Price

At auctions, the cost of helmets can reach several thousand dollars. But you can find more advantageous options. For example, on "Avito" their cost starts from 1000 rubles. The price depends on the state. Avito also has helmets worth 5,000 rubles, and 150,000 rubles.

Helmet M-42 - prototype for the Luftwaffe

In Germany, during the Second World War, resource problems began to appear. In addition, the bombing of factories reduced the possibility of producing a large number of weapons. As a result, it was decided to develop a new helmet, which would be easier to produce. Then the light appeared M-42. The original color is gray. The cost of the German M-42 World War II helmet varies from 1000 rubles. But usually for a price of up to 10,000 rubles they sell rusted helmets.

This helmet was made of a combination of metal and leather. It has a very interesting history. This is one of the helmets that were manufactured and used in two world wars. Their design and form have become an inspiration for the creation of some modern.

The helmet has a leather liner with several fingers that point toward the center. The flaps are fastened together by using a rubber band. Thanks to this you can adjust the location of the helmet on the head.

The chin strap is made of leather, the metal buckle. The helmet rim is straight. The frame should be smooth, there should not be any sharp edges that could cause discomfort.

Luftschutz anti-ballistic defense helmet

The side of this helmet has vent holes to ensure a better cooling of the head. The original color is black. The police and military used the same German helmets of the Second World War. This model was very common. It was a very high-quality German helmet of the Second World War. Its price for today does not differ from the price of "brothers".

The Luftschutz helmet has a leather liner with several sections. The upper part has a design that allows you to wear a helmet with comfort. The neck is protected from the back by a visor. The edges of the helmet are folded. The chin strap is attached with a visor.

This helmet was made during the First World War. Its design was so perfect for the time that the German government decided to reuse it during the Second World War.

Prototype Luftwaffe - helmet M-35

Stahlhelm translates from German as a "steel helmet". In the imperial German army, the traditional Pickelhaube (needle battle helmet) was replaced by Stahlhelm during the First World War in 1916. The original color is dark blue.

In 1934, trials began to improve Stahlhelm, whose design was developed on the basis of models of the First World War. The company Eisenhüttenwerke carried out the design and testing of prototypes.

New German helmets of World War II were pressed from sheets of molybdenum steel in several stages. The size of the visor was reduced, and large protruding ears for the obsolete armored shield were removed. Ventilation holes were retained, but small hollow rivets were added.

The edges of the shell were moved to create a smooth edge along the helmet. And, finally, a completely new leather insert was made, which greatly improved helmet safety, adjustment and comfort. These improvements made the new M1935 helmet lighter. It has become more compact and comfortable than previous designs.

References

"German Helmets of the Second World War" (by Branislav Radovic) are two illustrated volumes in which helmets, such as the famous German Stahlhelm, are discussed in detail. The publication contains a lot of color photographs, details are shown close-up. The price of a German helmet of the Second World War will be easily determined by you, if you become acquainted with this handbook.