Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube Flying Helmet

this classic mesh flying helmet which has become synonymous with Luftwaffe fighter pilots in WWII. This example has a manufacturers label coded bxo indicating it was made by Deutsche Telphonwerke und Kabelindustrie AG, Berlin SO 36. The size stamp is 57 and hand written inside the crown is the name Hans Schmidt as well as D.F.L. which could be the initials of another owner. The helmet is in well used condition with a crack in the leather receiver housing on the left side whilst the netting is generally in very good shape. This example features tan leather receiver cups and provision for the Luftwaffe two point oxygen mask and is therefore an early pattern. This is reconfirmed by the throat microphones which are also marked bxo and Ln 26779-3 and are the earlier issue round type. The helmet carries the short communication cord favoured by fighter pilots but is interestingly fitted with what we believe to be a Russian issue 4 point communication plug and lead. This has clearly been retro fitted but can not establish if it was perhaps captured and subsequently used by a Russian airman or if the plug and cord has been replaced at a later date. We speculate this helmet may have been wreck recovered which would explain the damage mentioned and might explain the fitment of the Russian plug. We have seen cleaner helmets but this example still displays very well and is on offer at an entry level price.