I just returned from the MAX, which proved to be a very worthwhile undertaking (I certainly had more success finding things there than at the SOS). I also met up with Jerry Rehr, who had a very nice IR 94 Offizier helmet for sale.
My most exciting find was an Ersatz Eisenblech Tschapka. James, if you kept the photos of the dud which began this thread, it would be interesting to compare them against this:
Although the liner is in a perilously fragile state of repair, the pattern is what I would expect from any legitmate Tschapka; tapered and squared tongues with double holes for the liner cord.
Those familiar with the Eisenblech Pickelhaube, or "kit helmet," know of the wool skullcap acting as a buffer between the liner and tin shell. The Tschapka is fitted with a leather skullcap. Consequently, the interior is virtually identical to that of its all leather brethren.
The profile is contoured over the ear with a rolled edge.
The visor is held in place with rivets. The edge is rolled; therefore, brass visor trim was never intended.
The Wappen is brass, as are the
Knopf 91. The Preußen line eagle was once gilt, traces of which remain. The eagle is attached using conventional M95 loops and leather wedges. The loops pass through both the tin outer skin and skullcap.
A final view of the construction. The slot for the Feldzeichen measures just one centimeter across. I wouldn't be surprised to learn the original badge was likewise made of tin.
The mortar is static and cannot be removed. The four corners incorporate small underside vent holes. The Fangschnurr toggle is missing, but chipping to the paint surrounding the hole indicates the Tschapka was fitted with cords. Finally, as with the chinstrap for the tin Pickelhaube, the leather is riveted rather than sewn.
Chas.
