Code: H26119
United States Navy Helmet, Protective, Type APH-6B flying helmet. By Gentex. The APH-6 series was introduced in the early 1960s as a protective helmet with a hard foam-lined fibreglass shell and a single visor that could be retracted beneath a plastic housing via a central track. By the late 60's an improved model, the APH-6B, was issued with retractable double 'rams-horn' visors featuring twin nylon visor tracks. Helmets produced by Gentex have three section rams horn visor/covers whilst those produced by Sierra have a one-piece rams horn visor/cover. This example was probably produced in white but has been refinished in gloss yellow whilst retaining the white central visor cover. It has a black rubber edge-roll and a polystyrene-type lining with foam-backed leather padding to the forehead, crown and back areas. Inner earpads/receiver carriers are attached via external screws and the helmet shell has 'cut-outs' with integral mounts for 'butterfly' oxygen mask retention systems. Simple adjustable nylon chinstrap with velvet backed pad. Wired with loom and plug but no receivers are fitted. The helmet shell is marked and chipped but appears to be free of serious damage. The visor cover sections are good, both clear and tinted visors move and lock correctly and are in good condition with light scratches/scuffs only. The plastic disc 'washers' on the outside of the helmet shell are cracked/broken (need repair/replacing) and the lining is soiled and has some loss at the left brow area as shown. No markings/label nut named to 'Steve Tan'.
The APH-6B was used by U.S.N. and U.S.M.C. pilots in various jet fighter and bomber aircraft from the mid 60s through to the late 1970s. A good looking helmet. Stock code H26119.
