Is this helmet a keeper?

[Kenny Suit]

Hi folks:

With the large number of fake FJ helmets in the hobby these days, I'd appreciate your opinions on this one.

Is it an original?

I'll post a number of photos including detail shots.

Here's the first. The exterior from a 3/4 angle.

-- Kenny

[Kenny Suit]

A side view.

There have been a number of comments on other threads about a distinctive shape to the "Czech repro" shells. What should I be looking for in an original, versus a fake?

[Kenny Suit]

The rear.

All four bolts are the late-war slotted type.

I've also seen examples of M-38 helmets with two slotted bolts and two slotted/vented bolts. Would this configuration be original?

[Kenny Suit]

Obviously, this one is an SD.

The paint is green-gray, and although it has about 90%+ remaining, most of the exterior paint is smooth from wear. Only on the "valley" of the flared parts does the rough texture remain.

When did this type of slotted bolt begin to be issued? I've heard collectors say that they date from 1942 onwards. Is this correct?

[Kenny Suit]

And the liner.

A tiny size 54.

Should the pads be this color?

[Kenny Suit]

A closeup of the chinstrap snaps.

[Kenny Suit]

And of the chinstrap chamois backing.

Many of the threads have dry-rotted, and so I've separated the two pieces so that you can see the inside.

[Kenny Suit]

A closeup of the rolled edge of the helmet shell with the "ET 66" stamp.

[Kenny Suit]

The exterior edge of the shell, showing the crimping (?) along the edge.

[Kenny Suit]

And finally, the eagle decal.

I would appreciate your comments. I'm concerned about the originality of this helmet, as well as the "right-ness" of this configuration.

Should a single decal helmet have slotted bolts and a maker's stamp on the liner with its address (instead of an RBNr)?

[MGN]

Hey Kenny,
Thats one neat para helmet, definetly a keeper!
Liner, bolts and straps are the correct confirguration.
Nice detailed photos by the way!

Thanks for sharing,
Michael

[Jørn Schmidt]

From what I can see,I like it.

Cheers
J.S

[Gerd W.]

A nice one

[francis006]

agree

[Para82nd]