As noted, the Swiss M18 helmet is an authentic piece of Swiss military surplus. Originally designed for and issued to members of the Swiss land forces, these helmets remain in excellent condition and ready for reenactment, display or just about anything else.
The early years of WWI proved devastating as casualty rates soared. The introduction of trench warfare and advances in technology such as barbed wire, artillery, and machine guns played a big role in this trend. Less responsible, though glaring, was the disadvantage of leather helmets. The first year of WWI passed without a single nation offering their troops steel helmets. However, 1915 saw the introduction of the M1915 Adrian helmet by the French, closely followed by the British Brodie helmet and the M1916 stahlhelm, German for “steel helmet.” Many other nations began manufacturing and issuing helmets based on the stahlhelm design, including Switzerland, who introduced the Swiss M18 helmet in 1918. The M18 was very unique, however, sporting a lower, rounder crown with a skirt that was designed to protect the troops from the harsh elements associated with the Swiss region.
Seeing service in both WWI and World War II, the Swiss M18 helmet is the first steel helmet issued to Swiss troops during WWI and marked a great advancement in military headgear. Originally painted olive, these steel-structured helmets were recalled and modified in 1944. The new black paint included a mixture of sawdust, giving the helmet its unique texture that also prevents glare. Each helmet is in excellent condition and comes complete with the original liner alongside an adjustable chinstrap. As with our other Swiss products, you can expect outstanding craftsmanship on a product that is built to last.
As if you needed another reason to purchase the Swiss M18 helmet, it served alongside the German stahlhelm as major inspiration for the helmet worn by Darth Vader in the original "Star Wars" trilogy and "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith," and would make an exceptional addition to any fan’s collection. It was also featured in the recent grind house film "Hobo with a Shotgun," worn by the Plague. Consider this helmet for:
- Collections
- Reenactments
- Paintball and airsoft
- Movie production
- Much more…
Grab yours today for just $39.95.
Did you know?
By order of the Swiss militia system, Swiss soldiers are required to store all military issued equipment, including their personal service weapons, in their homes. As such, many of our Swiss M18 helmets include personal service tags that identify the soldier of issue by name. Talk about surplus items with storied histories!
