The M1 helmet was first introduced in 1941 as a replacement for the M1917A1 “dishpan” helmet used in World War I and the M1918 Trench helmet.
During World War II, the M1 helmet was used by all branches of the United States military and proved to be highly effective in protecting soldiers from shrapnel and fragmentation. The helmet was also used in the Korean War and the Vietnam War. In the Vietnam War, it was used in conjunction with a camouflage cover to help soldiers blend in with the jungle environment.
In the 1980s, the M1 helmet was replaced by the PASGT helmet (Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops) which is made of a lightweight material, and provided greater protection against bullets and shrapnel. Today, the M1 helmet is considered a collector’s item and is still used by reenactors and in some ceremonial units.
Specifications of WW2 M1 Helmet
The M1 helmet was made of a manganese steel alloy and featured a suspension system consisting of a webbed liner and a chin strap. The helmet had a distinctive “pot” shape, which provided more head coverage than previous helmets. The helmet also had a brim that ran around the helmet to provide additional protection for the face and neck. The helmet weighed about 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg) and had a thickness of 0.064 inches (1.63 mm)
The M1 steel helmet was designed to protect the wearer from fragmentation and shrapnel. The helmet shell was made of manganese steel alloy, a material that was both strong and lightweight. The helmet featured a suspension system made of a webbed liner and a chin strap. This suspension system was designed to keep the helmet securely on the head and distribute its weight evenly across the head. The helmet was also designed to protect the wearer’s ears and neck from shrapnel and debris.
The M1 helmet was painted with a variety of colors, including olive drab, navy blue, and khaki. The helmet also featured decals and markings, including the soldier’s name, unit, and rank. The helmet was also used in conjunction with a camouflage cover in the Vietnam War to help soldiers blend in with the jungle environment.
The helmet was also used with a liner system which was worn inside the helmet to provide additional cushioning and support to the wearer’s head. The liner system also had a system of pads that could be adjusted to fit the wearer’s head snugly.
Overall the M1 helmets were designed to be lightweight and provide maximum coverage to the head and neck while providing protection against fragmentation and shrapnel.
The production of the M1 helmet was done by a number of companies, including McCord Radiator and Manufacturing Company, Schlueter Manufacturing Company, and Inland Manufacturing Division of General Motors.