What Were the Most Iconic Military Helmets used in WW2?
The second world war was a pivotal moment in our modern history and has influenced many different facets of our lives from politics and warfare to even culture and technology. A deeply interesting topic in history, many people know just how important military helmets proved to be during this time. This article will take a look at some of the most iconic military helmets used in WW2 and why they were so important.
Why Were Helmets Important?
Military helmets were viewed as incredibly important since as early as World War 1. It was during this war that soldiers and the militaries around Europe realised that having something sturdy to protect your most important organ, the brain, was a better idea than having nothing at all. They soon entered mass production and joined the military attire that we all know today.
Military helmets only progressed further in development during WW2 and so we saw the invention of new and more capable helmets using stronger materials and more ergonomic features. Military helmets were so important as they could have meant the difference between a completely harmless ricochet, a concussion or instant incapacitation of a soldier. At Shooters Mart, we understand just how vital these helmets were and have made sure to stock up on these historically significant items which you can buy now. We have replicas and genuine WW2 helmets available so come take a look.
Top 4 most iconic helmets used in WW2
German Stahlhelm
Originally made in WW1, the German Stahlhelm has been made in a variety of different models with the latest iteration, the M1A1 being retired as late as 1992. The Stahlhelm became an instantly iconic helmet and was used as propaganda material for both sides of the war. The most iconic version some could argue was the M1935 and its other variant, the Fallschirmjäger version. More than a million copies of this helmet were made in the first two years of its introduction and even more after the changes to its production were made later on with the M1940 and later versions. The Fallschirmjäger were made for the german paratroopers and differed to the main design by removing the projecting visor so that it would lessen the risk of a head injury after a jump. The iconic side profile of this helmet and the dominant use of it in one of the major axis powers easily lends it to be one of, if not the most iconic helmet in use during WW2.
American M1 Helmet
The American M1 Helmet, often referred to as the "steel pot," was a game-changer in WWII. This iconic helmet was based off of the earlier helmet known as the M1917 which was produced during the later part of WW1. The M1917 shell was the basis of the M1 prototype, which they trimmed off the brim and added a visor and other extensions to protect the back and sides of the wearer's head. While most helmets used a system of cradles at the time, the new M1 helmet was given a Riddell liner and suspension system. During testing it was found to be able to resist a .45 ACP pistol bullet fired at point blank range which made it a great contender for mass production which began in 1941. A post war analysis of wartime casualty figures by the US Army Operations Research Office found that up to 54 percent of hits to the M1 helmet failed to penetrate. This resulted in an estimated 70,000 men being saved from death or injury by wearing the M1 helmet. An iconic look that most would associate with an American WW2 troop and even Korean and Vietnam war veterans.
British Brodie Helmet
During World War II, the British Brodie Helmet became an iconic symbol of the UK's military forces. Its distinctive design featured a shallow crown with a wide brim and a protruding crest at the front. This helmet was first introduced in 1915 during WWI but continued to be used by British soldiers throughout WWII. It's simple yet effective design made it a practical choice for soldiers facing combat situations. Several commonwealth countries such as Australia, Canada and South Africa even produced their own local versions of the Brodie which differed slightly to their original counterpart. The helmet's silhouette is instantly recognisable and has been immortalised in countless photographs and films depicting WWII.
Soviet Ssh-40 Helmet
The Soviet Ssh-40 Helmet was the most commonly seen helmet in WW2 in use by the Soviet Union. It is an iconic helmet as the Soviet Union played a vital role in the war with more than 11 million soldiers losing their lives. Designed to provide coverage for the head and neck, the Ssh-40 offered superior protection compared to previous models. Its sloped sides helped deflect incoming projectiles and shrapnel effectively. Despite its practicality, some soldiers found the helmet uncomfortable due to its weight and lack of padding inside. Due to its iconic red insignia and prominence in the war, this is an easily recognisable and iconic helmet.
Where Can I Buy an Iconic Military WW2 Helmet?
Are you a history buff fascinated by military artefacts from World War 2? If so, owning an iconic WW2 helmet could be the perfect addition to your collection. At Shooters Mart, we have a wide range of various significant military helmets used in WW2 and other theatres of war. We have helmets that range from high quality replicas to one of a kind authentic military helmets used in these wars. Shooters Mart are Australia's number one supplier for military helmets and all other firearm accessories, visit our store today and get yourself an authentic or replica military helmet.