Code: H27525
Introduced in 1916, the cowl or hood type flying helmet was almost like a shoulder length leather balaclava with a single face aperture, adjustable with small buckled straps. Although popular they were frequently modified in the field to make them easier to wear and use. This example retains its original form and is constructed from medium tan coloured soft leather with adjustable buckled forehead straps, press-studded earflaps and cylindrical padded leather wind deflectors. It also retains the drawstring, strap and buckle used to adjust/tighten the facial aperture. The helmet is lined with soft chamois leather in the crown, a band of animal fur around the central part and chamois below this. Condition is generally very good, the chromed leather is a bit soiled and creased but undamaged and remains very supple. Both straps and leather covered buckle are in place and in good order. The chamois lining is remarkably good in the crown but the lower section is soiled and does have a few small holes. The fur section has some damage/small splits to the chamois beneath, there is loss of fur and some is a little loose but the majority remains in place. Named to 'Howe' and with very faint ink stamped War Department (?) markings. A good '+' example of a scarce unmodified Royal Flying Corps helmet. Stock code H21956.
