Wehrmacht Combat Helmets 1933–45

Osprey Elite #106

by Brian Bell, Kevin Lyles (Illustrator)

The German Stahlhelm is perhaps the most recognizable image of World War II (1939-1945). Manufactured in its millions, it was used or copied by many countries. It is still one of the most collected relics of the war; but despite its relative availability, prices have reached levels that challenge collectors to protect themselves by acquiring in-depth knowledge. This book, by a collector of 30 years' standing, offers a detailed masterclass in the patterns, component parts and finishes of the combat helmets used by the German Army, Navy and Air Force. It is illustrated with a superb selection of rare period photos, colour photos of collected examples, and striking colour paintings.

64 pages, Paperback

First published June 24, 2004

Reviews

[Martin Koenigsberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everybody knows about the German "coal Scuttle" helmet. Big success in WWI, they made it slightly smaller in WWII. But it is of course, so much more complicated than that. This is a great book to take on the subject, as a larger work would probably make my head swim. Another good little book in the Osprey tradition.

You get history- and minutiae. The renewal of interest in 1933, with the conversion of the 1918 version for more modern war. Revisions and developments in the thirties, with a M1937 and a M1940 version. Various painted versions for the three services. Camo covers of all kinds, and liners as well- its exhaustive. By the end, you'll feel ready to become a collector, or for a more worldly title. My interest was sated.

This is a great book for the enthusiastic junior reader. No complexities, just information. Gamers/Modellers/Military Enthusiasts will be in heaven. This is all background, as there are no anecdotes/war stories to use for dioramas/scenarios, but the information is crucial to good modelling so all these groups will treasure this work.

[Surfing Moose · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading this, I'll have to model zimmerit on my 15mm late war FOW minis. Need to stop the research.