M1926 helmet (Spain) facts for kids

The M1926 Helmet was a special steel helmet used by soldiers in Spain. It was also called the M26 or "Con ala" (which means "with brim") because its sides flared out, unlike an older helmet model. Spain started using this helmet in 1930. It was replaced by a newer helmet, the M42, in 1942. You would have seen many of these helmets during the Spanish Civil War, worn by soldiers on both sides of the conflict.

Spanish M26 Helmet, painted black as opposed to its usual pre Civil War grey or Francoist green color.

Profile view, note the hollow center rivet characteristic of pre Civil War production helmets of this type.

Interior of the helmet showing the three pad liner setup as well as the original hue of green paint.

Helmet Design and Changes

The M1926 helmet was an improved version of an earlier helmet called the Model 1921. The main difference was that the M1926 had a wider, flared rim, which is why it got the nickname "with brim." However, it kept the same inner padding (called the liner) and chin strap from the older model.

This helmet was the second one made by the National Arsenal of Artillery at Trubia. This was a special factory in Spain that made military equipment for the Spanish Army.

Changes Over Time

Helmets made before the Spanish Civil War were usually painted grey. They also had hollow rivets (small metal fasteners) on the chin strap.

After 1943, all Spanish helmets were updated. This meant they got new liners and were painted green. When these updates happened, the hollow rivets were replaced with solid, dome-shaped ones. A special bracket was also added to the front of the helmet. This bracket was for attaching special badges or symbols.

The M1926 helmet was still used by the Spanish Army in some places until the 1950s. By then, it was fully replaced by the newer M42 helmet.

See also

In Spanish: Casco M1926 para niños