Prussian M15

[USN]

This one has sadly not been cared for like the previous pickelhaube I posted although it did come from the same auction I have a replacement liner for it and intend to get it put in as soon as I finish the restoration of my officers pickelhaube

 

[Lars13]

Hi USN,
Is that leather or some Ersatz material? I read "B.A. VIII", 1916 and "F" on the Hinterschirm; "F" possibly for Felddienstbrauchbar, fit for use in the field.
Regards,
Lars

 

[USN]

Its leather just not the greatest shape it looks like something had pooled up in the helmet or it sat in a puddle at one point or something.

 

[aicusv]

Actually the shape is very good, condition leaves a little for want.

 

[USN]

Today I begin the restoration! Wish me luck

 

[aicusv]

Good luck, replacing a liner isn't the easiest job.

 

[Sandmann]

All the best for your project... I have to do the same task and will start to replace a liner soon. So I know how you feel :bravo:

 

[b.loree]

You have to be pretty dedicated to replace a liner, it is a big job as both visors have to be removed. I have done several including making/installing my own repros. Another problem, the M91 side posts will get in the way of stitching a replacement liner in. I have removed them in the past in order to get an "original" replacement installed. One has to realise, the liner was the first thing to be stitched onto the shell so the posts were not installed. Good luck to you both.

 

[Sandmann]

You have to be pretty dedicated to replace a liner, it is a big job as both visors have to be removed. I have done several including making/installing my own repros. Another problem, the M91 side posts will get in the way of stitching a replacement liner in. I have removed them in the past in order to get an "original" replacement installed. One has to realise, the liner was the first thing to be stitched onto the shell so the posts were not installed. Good luck to you both.

Thanks for the warnings, but for my part I already have enough respect for the task, believe me :???:
But restoring the Chinscale was fun for me and I‘m tempted to restore a helmet since I have been following your restoration posts. I hope I may continue to count on your help if this task is beyond my skills :wink:

 

[b.loree]

No problem Sandy, you or anyone else can ask me questions, I am just glad to help out. Obviously you will not run into the M91 post problem as you are dealing with an officer helmet. However, typically, the fold line on a 100 year old sweatband or liner will be the weakest part of any original liner.Unfortunately, this is also the area in which you will be trying to put in new stitches.

 

[USN]

Yes I have already noticed the softest and weakest part is the folded area of the liner. I am finding that slow and steady wins the race on this for sure

 

[b.loree]

Yes, one has to be patient and regard each new stitch as a small victory. Originally of course, the liner leather was brand new, had lots of natural oils in it and was very flexible. The original liner could be pulled tight along the shell rim and tack stitched to the rim. In my experience, they used a heavier thread for liners than visors as obviously, they knew that the liner would be stressed whenever the helmet was put on a head. Anyway, I look forward to seeing pics of the results of your labours!

 

[USN]

Just about done with the liner! Next will be stitching the rear visor back on