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German-Helmets.com - The Online Reference Guide to World War II German Helmets 1933-1945

M1938 Single Decal Paratrooper Combat Helmet

The M1938 model Fallschirmjäger (paratrooper) helmet was the last model produced and became the standard for all paratrooper units in the Luftwaffe. While paint finishes, use of insignia, liners, and spanner bolts were changed or updated throughout the war, the standard M1938 shell remained unchanged. All paratrooper shells were manufactured by a single firm and bore either the ET or ckl mark of the production facility in Thale. Shells were generally produced in 66cm, 68cm, and 71cm shell sizes, however a few very small 64cm shells sizes have been encountered. The example below depicts a helmet issued about 1940 bearing the army field green paint and single decal required by Luftwaffe paratroopers. The helmet's paint finish bears little if any texture and is almost entirely smooth. The liner band is the earlier aluminum style later changed to zinc galvanized steel. The early spanner bolts bear testimony to the fact that many paratrooper helmets were never updated with newer components. This particular helmet came from the estate of a US Army veteran who did not serve in World War II. However, he stated that the helmet had been in his family for many years and likely came from a family member who served during the Second World War. This shell is the smaller sized 66cm type. Original Fallschirmjäger helmets are becoming nearly impossible to find. Although many exist, most reside in permanent collections. A plethora of reproductions exist with most being of very high quality.

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German-Helmets.com - The Online Reference Guide to World War II German Helmets 1933-1945