Mk1 Brodie Barn Find

**Tommywal** · 03-13-2016, 06:51 PM

Good Evening All,

I'd like to share with you what I picked up at a farm auction this weekend, it's what I believe to be a mk1 Brodie helmet in pretty poor condition but fairly complete.

I'm in two minds what to do with it, either leave it as it is or restore it with a new liner and a coat of paint but I'd like to hear your thoughts on it.

Thanks.

Tom.

**CBH** · 03-13-2016, 06:54 PM

Nice find , I think it wouldn't need new paint once it's cleaned . IMHO

**SteveR** · 03-14-2016, 02:24 AM

Clean the helmet and wipe the oil cloth liner with a damp rag. You will be amazed how it will improve the looks.

**reneblacky** · 03-14-2016, 02:29 AM

give it a clean up, if you restore it, it's history will be lost

**earlymb** · 03-14-2016, 12:35 PM

I would just start with a gentle vacuum, with the brush-attachment and go from there to see what more is needed to clean it. Probably just a damp rag indeed.

**Tommywal** · 03-14-2016, 07:18 PM

Thanks guys, I will try just that. At the auction they stuck the lot number to the top of the helmet with grease, I've got most of it off but would I be safe to try and clean it up with white spirit or some other type of degreaser?

**Mark Holden** · 03-15-2016, 03:32 PM

Leave as is. As previously stated wipe the liner, hoover out the dust(making sure you don't loose any liner parts!) Give the shell a gentle wash. With advice you may want to consider a stabilising wax to prevent further rusting. Nice to see things like this turning up at odd auctions

**Spitace41** · 03-15-2016, 03:38 PM

I agree with leaving as it is. Personally I would not dampen any part of it with water. I have had good results with Renaissance Wax. I would get a pot of Ren Wax and use it on the liner and the shell, use a soft cloth and it should lift up the dirt and bits of loose rust and protect the helmet from further deterioration as well. Cheers.

**Tommywal** · 03-17-2016, 07:40 PM

Thanks guys, I did as you recommended and it looks 100% better. I'll try some of this ren wax and post some pictures this weekend.

Many thanks.

**Tommywal** · 03-21-2016, 07:00 PM

Whilst cleaning it up I could just make out the stamp F8 95 which I guess is relevant to the maker?

I must say acquiring helmets this way is very satisfying!