German M35 steel helmet (Stahlhelm Model 1935)

German M35 steel helmet (Stahlhelm Model 1935), officially introduced in 1935 as an evolution of earlier First World War designs. The M35 is considered one of the most refined versions of the German steel helmet and was widely used during the early years of the Second World War.

Manufactured from pressed steel, the helmet features a contoured shell with a rolled edge, a distinctive characteristic that enhances structural strength and finish quality. The ventilation holes are fitted with separate metal bushings, a defining feature that differentiates the M35 from later simplified models such as the M40 and M42.

Inside, the helmet is equipped with an adjustable leather liner, mounted on a metal band, designed to provide both comfort and a secure fit. A chin strap completes the system, ensuring stability during movement.

The M35 was issued across all branches of the German armed forces, including Heer, Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine, and remains one of the most iconic items of WWII military equipment.

It represents a balance of protection, ergonomics, and manufacturing quality, characteristic of early wartime production.