Here’s another piece from my Warsaw Pact sub-collection;

An M73 Para helmet in very good condition.

It is very similar in general appearance to the Polish WZ-63 but does seem to be of less “robust” quality.

The shell is similar to the standard M73/80 as if it could be a truncated version of the same profile.

The liner is of very soft and thin (much thinner than the Polish version) black leather which is very comfortable but I doubt it would take very much punishment.

The rimless shell is of a thinner guage than most steel helmets and I am suspicious of the level of ballistic protection provided.

The net which is permanantly attached during assembly (it is fitted between the shell and liner) is quite delicate and would rip very easily in use.

Inside the shell and under the liner is a worsted wool “crown” which can only serve as an insulating layer.

All in all an interesting piece and I am sure the troops wearing it felt they “cut a dash” in the looking cool elite forces stakes at home but from a soldiers viewpoint I wouldn’t thank you for it as a combat helmet!:rolleyes:

Regards

Mark

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