Code: H26485
Stores reference 22c/1253128, size small. Manufactured with a moulded glass fibre resinate shell with integral internal foam backed leather padding, nylon webbing suspension harness and avionics. The Mk.2 & 2A helmet features a unique visor system operated via a large sprung loaded 'pull-down' bar at the forehead which never comes into view of the wearer. The retractable 'rose' tinted anti-glare visor can be locked in the lowered position via a separate lever on the right side of the helmet. Vacuum formed plastic covers protect the visor pivot mechanism on each side and early helmets had a further cover along the front edge of the helmet, designed to protect the visor when raised. In practice this central cover caused problems in the cockpit with taller aircrews struggling for headspace and during ejection when it acted as an air scoop. Initially, the cover was attached via three pan head screws but these were changed to less permanent plastic rivets designed to fail if caught in ejection situations. Later variants lack this cover and some earlier helmets had them removed.
The helmet shell is in its original white finish and in very good overall condition. There are scratches and small chips but only minor cracking around the oxygen mask plug attachment point. The visor mechanism is in excellent working condition and retains undamaged side cover and central covers. It has a good visor with a distinctive oxygen mask 'cut-out' and rose tint. Fitted with adjustable hooknuts for an oxygen mask. The internal padding is foam-backed beige leather with a stitched green coloured edging. As usual the foam-backing has deteriorated and much has either hardened or been shed over the years. Some 'dust' continues to fall but is easily removed. The nylon suspension harness is a little soiled and the purple satin lining material is also soiled and somewhat faded. Fitted with good ear capsules and a standard short pigtail loom and NATO plug (rubber cover is shedding).
The helmet comes in its original storage/transit case, stores reference 22c/2405. 'Cases, Stowage (for Helmets, Protective, Mk2 and 2A'). This brown fibre case has a hinged lid, twin locking clasps and single carry handle. Part lined with sponge rubber to protect the helmet in transit. Two bungee cords secured the helmet in place. The inside of the lid has a clear pocket for a modification record card and a bag to contain user maintenance instructions etc. Reasonably good overall condition but there is damage to the corner of the lid as shown, some degradation of the rubber lining, one of the lid 'stays' needs repairing and the studs have pulled through the documents storage bag in the lid.
The Mk.2 & 2A flying helmets superceded the MK.1A that was used in conjuction with a cloth type-G inner helmet. It was the first protective helmet to incorporate avionics and a retractable visor within one unit. A good '+' example of this now rare 'bonedome'. A great display piece. Stock code H26485.
