Description
British WWII ‘ turtle shell’ military helmet (L:28cm x W:24cm)
The British WWII “turtle shell” helmet is commonly known as the Mark II helmet, or the “Brodie” helmet. It was the standard-issue combat helmet for British and Commonwealth forces during both World War I and World War II, though it saw most of its usage during WWII.
Key Features:
-
Design and Shape: The Brodie helmet is often referred to as a “turtle shell” because of its distinctive, rounded shape. It has a broad, deep brim around the edge, which provided some protection for the neck and shoulders. This design was influenced by earlier helmets from World War I and was intended to protect the wearer from shrapnel and other battlefield hazards.
-
Material: The shell was made from mild steel, which offered a good balance of durability and weight. The interior featured a leather or canvas liner that included a webbing suspension system. This helped distribute the weight of the helmet evenly on the wearer’s head and also provided some shock absorption.
-
Color: The helmet was typically painted in a dull green or olive drab color, which helped with camouflage. The exact shade could vary depending on the manufacturer and the time period.
-
Chin Strap: A chin strap was attached to the helmet to keep it securely on the soldier’s head. The strap was made of leather and could be adjusted for a snug fit.
Evolution and Usage:
-
The Mark II Brodie helmet was introduced in 1939, replacing the earlier Mark I helmet, which had been used in World War I. Although the design was initially developed in WWI, it was used extensively during WWII due to its effectiveness in protecting soldiers from shrapnel, debris, and low-velocity projectiles.
-
The helmet was used by British forces as well as by many of the Commonwealth nations, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. During WWII, it was one of the most iconic and recognizable military helmets worldwide.
-
Over time, the Brodie helmet was replaced by more modern designs, such as the British Mk.3 “Vinegar” helmet (introduced after WWII) and eventually the PASGT helmet in the 1980s.
s.
