Here is a look at what we can best determine to be a Peruvian M-1. Really struggled to find any concrete information on the identification of Peruvian helmets other than what has already been posted in this thread. The only thing we really have to add is that Peru went to the US M-1 sometime in the 1950 and used them on into the early 1990’s where they then switch to the US PASGT composite helmet. From what I have read it appears that Peru received several lots of US M-1 so it can be assumed that you could come across a Peruvian M-1 from WWII, Korean War or VN ear.
Now, for what we know about this particular helmet. From the very small piece of rim that remains on the helmet shell it does indicate that this is a front seam making it an earlier WWII lid, assuming that is a US shell which it most likely is if it is in fact Peruvian. It has fixed bales and although they both have been re-welded, the shell does not appear to have ever had the swivel bale fixtures welded to it so it is reasonable to assume this was also an earlier fixed bale helmet. The bales also look to be of McCormick style. There are several layers of paint, one of which appears to be the shade common with the Peruvian helmets. The color shows better on the inside where it still holds some of its gloss. There is also a nice shade of gray indicating that this was once a Peruvian Marine helmet maybe or possibly a US Navy surplus? The Peruvian Civil Defense also used US M-1s but I think they were a different color. And as you can see, there have been several weld repairs made to this helmet over its lifetime.
The chin strap is an odd bird and certainly not in issued form. The large rivets are similar to those used on the Peruvian liners. The chinstrap material is a thinner nylon than I would not expect to be on a chin strap, certainly not on a US helmet however the buckle is clearly stamped “US”, I just have not taken the time yet to determine what helmet or gear the buckle came from.
The liner is an early Vietnam period Westinghouse model stamped “US 32” with the nape strap cradles removed and has been re-fitted with a Peruvian manufactured liner system. Who knows when it was mated with the helmet shell but they both look as though they have been around the block once or twice.
All in all, we are pretty happy with the new acquisition and hope we can better ascertain that it is in fact a Peruvian M-1 helmet.
I posted a mess of pictures and of course they are in no particular order, we hope you enjoy,
Russ & Son
THE END
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