Were aluminum liner bands ever used in the M1942 helmet?
Yes, but not very often. The M1942 combat helmet typically utilized the “second pattern” liner band introduced in 1940. Theoretically, it is possible that some M1942 helmets utilized the earlier pattern helmet liner. This hypothesis is based on the fact that at least one producer of aluminum liner bands (the original patent holder) manufactured this type until 1943. Only a handful of original, untouched examples of M1942 helmets with early model “first pattern” aluminum liner bands have surfaced. All have been dated 1942 or 1943 and are factory produced helmets, not field reworks or surplus refinished helmets.
