Instructions > M2 Helmet 'D' Bales Application Instructions

USA M2 Helmet 'D' Bale and M2 Chinstrap Fitting Instructions:


Warning: We have used this technique hundreds of times to fit pre-sewn M2 chinstraps onto reproduction D bale helmets. If you have an original D-Bale M2 Helmet do not even think about removing the D Bales or using the techniques below to fit chinstraps, it will damage the historic helmet. You can however be clever and cut the box stitching, fit the M2 Chinstraps and then glue and/or stitch the chinstrap with thin matching colour thread, so you maintain the look of correct box stitching chinstrap. Sorry no instructions with this technique!

We take no responsibility if you damage your bales, cannot fit the bales, damage the paintwork or cause any other damage to your helmet, bales or chinstrap. We strongly advise against using this technique on any historically relevant helmet including rare swivel bales.

Why use pre-sewn M2 paratrooper chinstraps: Our chin straps have been box stitched using the correct material, colour and pattern. If you try and sewn your chinstraps on it will be instantly recognised as a non-factory fitted chinstrap. So if you intend to replicate a 'D' bale helmet from a M1 swivel bale helmet you can use the technique below. So it makes your helmet much more authentic.

Points to note: Make sure you attach the strap with the hooks to the left side of the helmet when wearing it. Attached the strap with the buckle to the right side of the helmet. Make sure you attach each strap the correct way round on the loop, the DOT popper fasteners should end up facing the inside of the helmet. Check at every stage and DOUBLE check, it's easy to make a mistake as the job seems so simple - trust us!

The final result is a standard M1 swivel bale helmet, converted to an early war M2 fixed bale with correctly stitched chinstraps. The technique detailed below can be completed in about 20 minutes!

You can buy your M2 Chinstraps and Bales  here.

You can buy your M2 Chinstraps and Bales here.