WW2 German Wehrmacht M40 Stahlhelm M40 STEEL HELMET & LINER REPRODUCTION
The first "modern" steel helmets were introduced by the French army in early 1915. The German army began tests for their own steel helmet at the Kummersdorf Proving Grounds in November, and in the field in December 1915, experimenting with both captured French and British helmets. An acceptable pattern was developed and approved and production began at Eisen-und Hüttenwerke, AG Thale/Harz, in the spring of 1916.
In 1935, the Third Reich developed the smaller, lighter M35 style helmet, and then in an effort to reduce construction time and labor costs, minor modifications were introduced in March 1940 resulting in the M40 helmet. Further construction modifications were undertaken. In August 1942 resulting in the M42 helmet. Made of stamped steel, this M40 Combat Helmet is in EXCELLENT unused condition! It retains 99% of its original paint and finish, but there is some scratches and marks from storage. The liner is the original to this helmet, as is the chinstrap. As this is reproduction, there are no manufacture markings or stamps. PERFECT addition to any collection or display!