Helmet Description

Prior to 1929 many fire-fighting units used leather helmets in various styles with most appearing similar to the leather spiked helmet of World War I. These helmets bore a stamped metal crest on the front depicting the province or township to which the fire-fighting unit belonged.  In 1929 a light-weight plastic fiber (Vulkanfiber) helmet was prototyped for general use by all fire-fighting units. The first models were issued in 1932 and proved unworthy of further consideration. As a result a second prototype was explored using light-weight steel alloy known as "Edelstahl." During this time leather fire-fighting helmets were slowly replaced with a combination of surplus World War I model steel helmets and privately manufactured versions in the “Austrian” pattern shell.  These early helmets were generally painted black although some were left in their original field-gray World War I color.

In 1934 the light-weight steel alloy prototype helmet was approved for general use by all fire-fighting units.  This helmet is designated the “M1934” by modern collectors because of the year of its introduction.  Several different versions of the M1934 helmet exist with many variations resulting from subtle differences in the air vents or visors.  The M1934 helmet was painted semi-gloss black inside and out with two insignia placed one on each side. Fire Protection Police helmets were manufactured with and without an aluminum metal comb.  In some cases the metal comb was also painted black.  As a result of a large surplus, M1934 helmets without combs were issued in 1940 for general wear by all fire-fighting personnel.  The helmets used typical civilian style liner systems and chinstraps. The liners were made so that they could accommodate a removable black leather neck shield. 

Civic Square Dip M1934 with Early 1934 Insignia (right side)

Civic Square Dip M1934 with Early 1934 Insignia (left side)

Civic Droop Billed M1934 Helmet (right side)