Romanian M73 Steel Helmet, Surplus

A Romanian steel helmet from the golden years of Communism. The Romanian army introduced the M73 helmet in 1973, and its beautiful shape is based on the previous M38 helmet. A stylish piece of Romanian military history from the Cold War era.

The steel of this helmet is pretty much the best Romania could produce at the time. The aggressively sloping shape also increased its ballistic protection. The original lining was padded with horsehair or felt. However, our helmet pathologists weren’t allowed to cut these open so there could be pretty much anything inside these. The helmets feature a four-point chinstrap.

Sizing

The weight on the average c. 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs). The size and weight can vary a bit. We won't pick and choose. There are markings underneath the leather lining indicating e.g. the serial number, size, and year of manufacturing. These helmets seem to have been made primarily in the 80s

Condition

Used Romanian military surplus. So, these can have scratches, dents, worn-off paint, surface rust, and other normal signs of use. The helmet lining and straps have most likely been replaced, so they may differ in style and materials. Leather might also have gotten stiff with age and it may have some patina and wear. There shouldn’t be any bullet holes though.

Sold for collecting, not for protecting your noggin’. If you ride your fixed gear bike in a ditch wearing one of these, the stitching is on you.