US M-1 Combat Helmet 327th Glider Infantry Regiment

US M-1 Combat Helmet 327th Glider Infantry Regiment
Superb and Rare US M-1 Combat Helmet of the "101st Airborne Division - 327th Glider Infantry Regiment".

The M-1 helmet was developed as a replacement for the M-1917 helmet that had seen use since WW1. It was designed by using the crown of the M-1917, removing the brim and adding extensions to protect the neck, ears, and forehead. The resulting form was then used as a template for the production of a helmet body from a single piece of Hadfield Manganese Steel. The liner and suspension were developed after a modified Riddel Football helmet. The M-1 helmet was approved for production in June of 1941. Early models had solid loops (fixed bale) for the chin straps but they broke off to often and were replaced with a moveable hinged loop. The original rim of the helmet was made of stainless steel but it was found that the paint that was used would wear off to easily and leave a shiny reflective surface. To remedy this they switched to a Hadfield Manganese Steel and also changed the butt of the rim from the front to the rear of the helmet body. This change took place in October of 1944. The M-1 helmet had the best ballistic characteristics of any helmet developed up to then.

Shell only. The shell worn and used. Hand painted Signs 327th Glider Infantry Regiment. The « SHAMROCK » is painted on both sides of the helmet with a « TICK » positioned at 12 o'clock to signify Headquarters.

The shells rim is edged in stainless steel with the seam at front visor with two spot weld marks to interior. On either side, spot welded in place, are nomoveable loops as introduced in 1943. No chinstrap or liner.

The helmet shell itself in the original painting.



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