A 11 Flight Helmet

[Guest Claymore]

I have had this A 11 for several years and have never seen another like it. I would be interested to know if any of you have ever seen one like it or have any ideas why it was made and what it was used for.

 

The Helmet is a typical A 11 made by the shelby Shoe Company with radio receivers in place and a Pl-354 plug. The difference is that the receivers are covered on the outside with lead ear cups sewn to the sides of the helmet.

 

There is a photo of a similar ear cup style made of plastic or rubber on page 258 and 259 of Mick Prodger's book VINTAGE FLYING HELMETS.

 

I am guessing that this helmet was made with the lead earcups to lessen radio interference? What do you think?

 

I appreciate your time and opinions.

 

Thank you, Phil

 

http://i532.photobucket.com/albums/ee329/moonpie97/th_A11withleadreceivercovers5ShelbySho.jpg[/img]%5b/URL%5d"]Photos posted on Photobucket

[jerry_k]

the photo doesn't work:(