The helmets of Germany came in a variety of designs. The following is an analysis of one of those helmets. Detailed photographs and terminology are given to provide the enthusiast and collector with a better understanding of this fascinating aspect of militaria.

While the item discussed here may not be available for sale, you can see our inventory of German helmets that are by going to our web store.

One of the most noticeable characteristics of the German Fireman's helmet is the comb. This was an aluminum attachment placed on the top of the dome. It started at the peak of the front and extended all the way to the end of the neckguard. The comb was secured to the helmet via the use of two rivets in the crown area. The helmet displayed here has a chromed finish, indicating taht it is a parade model. The design was identical to that of the working helmet. The German WWII Fireman's helmet came with a leather liner. The sample shown here does not have it. However, some of the hardware used to retain it is still present. Those items are discussed in the following picture. it is interesting to note the rolled rim design. This feature is shared with the M-35 helmet model. However, the fireman's helmet is considerably lighter than the M-35. One of the interesting characteristics of the fire helmet are the ventilation holes placed at each side of the dome. Some of the helmets are stamped with the date in which the item was manufactured. The example shown here has the year 1940 on the side. Helmets were stamped with information such as serial number, date, manufacturing company. etc. The example shown here shows the serial number.

If you have an interest is seeing other American military headgear, you can do so by going to our German helmets identification guide. Where we cover Army, Navy, Luftwaffe and other organizations from various time periods.

This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of MilitaryItems.com , a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.