Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/958224
were attempts to remove that disadvantage by using a wider sweatband, but the service of the two-point chinstrap in a modern army was coming to an end. The helmet was also incompatible with the new IBA (Interceptor Body Armor). In 2002, US Army adopt- ed the ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet). In 2004, the USMC started the process of replacing the PASGT with LWH (Lightweight Helmet) which had a similar shape, but provided better protection with less weight. LWH also received a brand-new suspension. Nevertheless, the PASGT helmet had been used still long after 2010. It was still used by the army for Basic Training. Current- ly, PASGT helmets are still used by the USAF and some units of the US Navy. The helmets that we can find nowadays for sale usually have been through a long service and have a long history. They have had no specific service time and one helmet has been usually used by many soldiers. There was nothing strange in finding a helmet produced in the 1980s during the OIF in 2003. The suspension, sweatbands, chin- straps, not even mentioning the covers and elastic drawstrings have been changed many times. Some elements, such as the impact liner, were even considered as single-use accessories. The 1990s also experienced a major gap in production of all sizes except for the Medium, which resulted from a large stock. I hope that the above description will make it eas- ier for you to determine the age of those helmets and their parts or add one of such helmets to expand your collection. End note from editor: It is a common mistake, multiplied in different sources, about the popu- lar nickname of the helmet. Sometimes, mostly in Europe and some medias, the PASGT helmets are called "Fritz". When you will ask US soldiers about Fritz helmet, most probably they won't know what you're talking about. PASGT helmets was commonly called K-pot (Steel Pot was M1) or just Kevlar, but never Fritz. Early cover on the left, late (post 1997) on the right. New covers were issued together with upgraded suspensions systems as the new suspension required longer attachment bands. equipment