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Posted

Hello all,   wishing to post here this headgear setup I've got recently, meant to complete a last full-size aviator. 

 

Gentex  APH-5 helmet is in quite great condition both inside and external, 100% complete and sporting the 2nd type visor knob w/ smooth sides.  A couple chromed receivers of the 'Hardman Retention System' have been fitted, likely a retro-fitting in my opinion. The two leather tongues supporting the snap buttons for the original mask attachment have been removed, and chinstrap is missing (side holes for it to attach had got covered by bayonet receivers.)  Visor like new, although showing much side play when lowered enough  -   but looks like other APH-5s I had got back then, behaved the same.

The 'golden' finish is in great shape and the same is for interior pads and earcups.  And at last, after so many years (!) got a Navy MS-22001 fitted w/ the rare-to-find, mask-mounted mini regulator of the first variant F-1732 by Firewel, that pioneered this revolutionary system since mid-'50s   -   at best of my research, likely introduced in late 1955 and followed after some time by the slightly larger F-2700. Both meant to meet the Navy Spec. MIL-R-19121 (but Robershaw and Bendix too, were making miniregulators for the USN).

 

Mask is in great shape too, and complete. Somehow surprised the facecup rubber is still supple and w/o defects, including the cheek portions   -   they usually seem being the first to develop those tiny surface crazing and micro-cuts.

Comm. cables and R.E.Dar hose like new as well.  Will go on a F4D Skyray pilot I've set in 1958, rest of needed items is already here.

 

Franco.

 

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Posted

a temporary result, will have it moved to a proper place and in full view

 

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Posted

Thanx cricket,

 

yes I quite like it. I'm adding some finishing touches to the full-size aviator this helmet is on, will have it completed in a couple days.

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