West German M1A1 helmet with I60 interior

[Sleepwalker]

Hello,

After the new M1A1 helmet with JF60 interior (further called M1A1 I60) was tested and introduced in the Bundeswehr in 1958/1959,

West German M1A1 helmet with JF60 interior

they immediately set about improving this concept.

There had already been considerations to incorporate the tried and tested inner lining I53 of the Federal Border Guard's helmets into the new shells. The company had concerns about this, as they feared the beam would be weakened due to the required screw being welded in.

Nevertheless, there was a test in September 1959. For this purpose, modified I53 interiors developed by the Schuberth company were installed in the M1A1 shell. For this it was necessary to install a screw in the cathedral. The tests led to further changes and improvements. The new interior was also improved accordingly and called I60. There was an attempt to wear it in 1960. From 1961 onwards, the new helmet model was purchased and issued to the troops.

The shells were manufactured by the two German companies VDN (Vereingte Deutsche Nickelwerke, Schwerthe) and PSL (Paul Schulze, Lübeck) from 1961 onwards. In parallel, in order to cover the demand, further shells from Sweden were supplied by Eskilstuna Stalpressnings A.B. imported.

The M1A1 I60 can therefore be found with German and Swedish manufacturer markings from 1961 onwards.

The M1A1 I60 remained unchanged until its final retirement from 1992. As early as 1981, however, it was replaced by the "M1A1 modifiziert für Bodentruppen" / “M1A1 modified for ground troops”. Many of the M1A1s were converted into an “M1A1 modified”.

Variations regarding small things such as manufacturer markings and labels and overhauls can still be found.


The helmets were painted in RAL 6014 and had a sandy texture. The improved interior I60 had a plastic head hood and a rubber pad. A surrounding metal ring was adjustable in size. This interior was easily replaceable. The interior fittings were often replaced with new ones. Usually with a new carrier or with corresponding dirt/damage.

Based on the experience of the M1A1 JF60, an improved chin strap was used. This was replaceable and the brackets were riveted with solid pins.


Below I would like to introduce them to you.

[Sleepwalker]

Here is an early M1A1 I60 from 1961. The shell was manufactured by Eskilstuna Stalpressnings A.B.

This early I60 interior have a paper label that was looped on. These paper labels can only be found in connection with imported shells and therefore only from 1960 to 1962/63. This Label was removed when used and can only be found in preserved depot items. The interior fittings were often replaced with new ones. Usually with a new carrier or with corresponding dirt/damage.

Helmets made entirely in Germany had a sticker on the interior as early as 1961.





































































I60 Interior

[Sleepwalker]

Here is a helmet from 1962. Shell made by Eskilstuna Stalpressnings A.B. There is also a paper label here.

[Sleepwalker]

This is an early production VDN from 1961. The interior has a sticker. The production year 1961 is also written on the leather.

Manufacturer, date and supply number are attached to the side in accordance with German TL regulations.

[Sleepwalker]

Helmets used by the Navy were also painted white.
Here is such a helmet. Manufactured in 1961 by VDN.

[Sleepwalker]

PSL production from 1963.

[Sleepwalker]

Production by VDN from 1974. Since they wanted to rework the helmet at that time and the development of a composite helmet was likely, the last M1A1 were purchased in 1974.

The standard helmet net is on the helmet.

[Sleepwalker]

The M1A1 J60 helmets were continually and extensively overhauled. This also included a new paint job.
The white stamps disappeared. An overhaul can therefore be easily recognized by the missing white stamp.
Even though the procurement of new shells was stopped in 1974, I60 interiors continued to be produced.

This helmet is revised. The interior is from 1977.

[Sleepwalker]

Many M1A1 I60s were converted to "M1A1 modifiziert für Bodentruppen" / "M1A1 Modified for Ground Troops" starting in 1981. This improved the previous helmet and created a bridge to the introduction of composite helmets.

You can recognize these helmets by the closed old rivet holes for the old chin strap holders.

[Jack59]

Thanks again Sleepwalker to shed light on the extended family of M1A1 helmets.
Jack