Frequently asked questions
Are your helmets real?
The shell of the helmet is guaranteed original. The paint, decal and liner are reproductions of the highest quality.
Can I get real components on my helmet?
It's impossible to source period paint (if it even excists), so I can't paint your helmet with original paint. The paints I use match the ones used origininally in color. I test this every now and then with original helmets I have in my own collection. The paint is especially mixed for me and not for sale in any store.
Although original decals are still for sale, it's not recommended to use them. They are so fragile after 80+ years that they will break after being removed from the backing paper. The decals I use are made according to the original specifications and are the best available. I don't use plastic decals and stickers.
It's possible to have an original liner and chinstrap in your helmet (if you don't intend to wear it) but they are so expensive your helmet would probably cost 2-3 times the price if you don't have a liner and chinstrap laying around.
Why are the helmets so expensive?
Even though millions are made, most of them were melted down or repurposed after the war. It's not easy to find a shell in good condition. There are many rusted relic shells around, but I prefer to use the ones in good shape. To give you an idea: a good shell in size 66 (the most popular size) will cost around 150 euro. Add the liner etc. and you're well over 200. I'm not getting rich off this ;)
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Why are some helmets 200-225 euro and others 275 or even 300?
This has to do with the price of the shells. There are more shells in size 62 and 64 available and most people that intend to wear their helmet (for reenacting) have size 66 or 68. So smaller sizes are less popular and since there are more available, they are cheaper to buy. It's all about availability and demand.
How long does it take to get my helmet?
Usually I can ship within a couple of days for a standard helmet that only needs a decal. Custom orders may take longer, depending on what kind of work needs to be done. And the fact I also have a life too.
Are the helmets you make accurate?
Yes they are. I've done (and continue to do) extensive research on what helmets were used in various configurations. I don't make M42 helmets in double decal SS, just because a customer wants me to. In short, the refurbished helmets I make are true to history. I also don't make pink helmets with Hello Kitty stickers (I really got that question once...)
Where do you source your items?
Most shells come from Germany, The Netherlands and Czech Republic. I source them through various sites and contacts. The other items like paint, rivets, liners and chinstraps are made for me specifically. The decals come from www.dday-1944.com and are the best available. Generally speaking, I do not sell loose items.
How do I know what size helmet I need?
It's easy. Measure the circumference of your head above the ears. This will give you a number. Since Germans use the metric system this number should be in cm. The circumference of your head is the size of the liner you need (i.e. 58 cm.). The measurements of the liner are always listed in the 'Helmets for sale' section. Or you can ask me if you're not sure.
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Do you ship everywhere?
Yes I do. As long as you have an address I can ship there.
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Do you accept other payment methods than Paypal?
I can also accept payment via bank account if we agree on that in our contact. Unfortunately no Western Union, Moneygram, couriers and diamonds from a Nigerian prince.
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Are you a Nazi?
Not really... I refurbish German steel helmets for the love of their design and because they're part of history wich I like to preserve. My customers are collectors, musea and reenactors. I can't check everyones background, but I'm pretty sure there are no Nazi's in my client list either.
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