WW2 German M38 paratrooper Fallschrimjager helmet, re-built.

Description: This is a reproduction M38 helmet shell. This shell is an example of mid war configuration that I purchased new and then just rebuilt using new material. If you are tired of trying to find a M38 Germen Paratrooper shell that has the original features of that time period, this may be what you are looking for. It is extremely hard to find a reproduction shell that has the dip in the brow, the line etching in the rolled rim, markings, and correct paint. This was me when I have been trying to find the right type of helmet that would accurately reflect that period. Needless to say, there is not a lot out there. So, I attempted to recreate it in a shell that is easy to obtain from overseas manufactures. The shell is close to an original but still has some differences. After many helmet purchases, I have now concluded the following helmet is the best representation as a reproduction from myself. I have refined my rebuild process, focus is on the rim areas, to include the front brow area that includes the dip, and the rim is newly rolled. With these shells, a lot of modifications still has to be made. Since they are close in shape from the manufacturer, I still have to set the correct height, take the extra flare out of the skirt area, re-roll the rims, and add the crease line on the inner rolled rim. The process is meticulous, as I try to get it right. Stampings of ckl71, and a lot number 4707 at the rear of the helmet shell inner rim. After the modifications, the shell is media blasted to bare metal. Painted with oil-based paint with hardener, so that it remains durable. Aluminum oxide texture is added to the painting process for the outside of the shell, while no texture is added for the inside. This is extremely close to wartime color of feldgrau. The paint is not a spray can application as it is not durable at all and to soft. I mix this paint with a catalyst hardener. The liner is totally re-done. The liner band is media blasted, to take out the aluminum shine and to dull it, so that it takes on grime. New open cell rubberized foam pads are added to keep it comfortable with the right thickness depending on the size of liner that goes with it. I made the liner out of correct weight goat leather, which is then wet formed, and finally sewn together. The top dome area is cross stitched by hand. Finally, it is stitched into the liner band system. Leather is very soft, not thick, and made into size 60 as seen in the pictures. Finally, a larger size for others needs and is much better than the other junk that came with it. There are not too many places that you can find a leather liner to just install to look correct. I left it natural color, and with break in, it will show weathering and just plain all-around use to give it a worn look or dye it to fit your needs. Chinstrap retaining strap is also integrated into the liner system. I recommend wetting the leather and wear it to complete its final shape conforming to a head and final stretch as it dries. A closed cell foam spider is also included and is sized to fit the foam pads on the liner and dome of the helmet. It is a tight fit, and I did not use adhesive to attach the spider to the foam pads. Every request I have is many want to remove it anyway or do not want it attached. Choice is yours if you want to remove it or go ahead and glue it on the liner band. The liner is set deep within the shell like a helmet should fit on the head, and not just sit on top of the head like a top hat with most reproduction liners. Since the base color is now established on the helmet, it is ready for your weathering, camo paint, wire, decal, or whichever route you may want to go. The paint will wear like it should on a military style helmet. The chinstraps are what came with the helmet when bought new, which they are still brand new, but not the best out there. I have added Prym grommets to replace the junk ones, added an eyelet grommet to the pull tab on the buckle, and realigned the nape strap on one side so that the chinstrap system is even, yes it was offset in inches. If you can source some quality chinstraps, you will be golden. New helmet steel spanner bolts are added and look fantastic for a mid-war issue. Prym snaps are also added to the chinstrap and sliders since they are the most durable out there. The sliders are stitched tight and stay in place to where you need them. Nearly each part of the helmet system is redone by hand and the leather liner takes multiple steps to complete. I strive to make each helmet I rebuild even better than the last. I do reference my shells from written documentation, and from an original shell as to keep the design as close as possible. Also added a picture of an original painted helmet side by side view of a new painted paratrooper helmet so you can see the color in sunlight as a comparison. Again, this listing is for the M38 helmet only. Shipping is either done same day, or next business day.

Price: 160 USD

Location: Timpson, Texas

End Time: 2025-02-01T04:45:22.000Z

Shipping Cost: 13 USD