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LKpN101

 

Type LKpN101 net flying helmet, first pattern

 

Netzkopfhaube Gr. ?

Baumuster L Kp N 101

Gerät-Nr 124-452A-2

Werk Nr -/-

Anf. Z. Lr 26670

Hersteller hdc

 

The Type LKpN101 net or mesh flying helmet was designed for comfort and proved immediately popular among pilots in any type of aircraft and in any theater of war.

It was manufactured of lightweight cotton mesh, coming in various shades from light tan to medium and dark brown, with reinforcements made of cotton webbing over the top around the back and chamois lined leather across the brow. The leather earphone cups with integrated goggle retaining straps were either lined with fleece or fur. They came in various colors ranging from dark brown over light brown to light tan. Also the leather trim came in various shades.

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The first version depicted here had provisions to attach all types of oxygen masks, be it a two-strap mask by means of two lateral stud fastenings, be it a three-strap mask by means of two side mounted flat hooks and a concealed adjustable central strap and eylet on the forehead.

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The secret of the LkpN101's wearing comfort lies, besides its lightweight construction, in the absence of a chin strap. In fact, the already well-fitting helmet was firmly held in place by the straps of the attached oxygen mask. This was adhanced by additional short adjustment tabs and buttons to the rear of each side of the helmet.

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Voice transmissions were enabled by the fitting of two Type Mi4b oval brown bakelit carbon  laryngophones Ln 26779-2 ending in a short loom with GBz Brechkupplung FL 27560.

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The laryngophone closure consisted in this case of a snap fastening and a friction release buckle.

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This short loom arrangement, completed by an extension cord fixed to the aircraft, was normally fitted to helmets used by fighter pilots, but could also be used in larger aircraft.

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This specimen is marked "M" under goggle retaining straps and wears a manually embossed arrow (Blitz) on the left earphone cover.

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Dräger Model 6702-1A oxygen mask

 

This specimen has the mask body moulded with the designation 6702-1A, the manufacturer’s code « byd » which stands for the Dräger Werke in Lübeck, and the size Gr.1

 

It represents the final model of the 10-67 family and combines the lighter construction of the 6701, normally with leather anti-frostbite shield and the efficient three strap harness of the 10-67. Nevertheless, this example had the shield removed and a more recent double-strap harness fitted.

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Splitterschutzbrille third pattern

 

While the German term actually means « splinter protection goggles », these goggles are sometimes referred to as « splinter proof goggles » or even more incorrectly « shatter proof goggles ». The latter being the most misleading term as a collector might definitely not want to find out by himself.

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This Nitsche & Günther design was intended to protect the wearer's eyes from small particles, splinters, and other debris. Dirt, small pebbles and other nasty bits finding their way into the cockpit by means of dirty flying boots may become extremely undesired accessories during combat maneuvers or aerobatics. That's why aircrew were always invited to wear eye protection during flight.

The Splitterschutzbrille combined light construction and wearing comfort with enough lens curvature to deflect such debris and fit closely to the wearer's face while not distorting vision.

 

The first version was designed shortly before the outbreak of WWII and came in sunglasses form. Produced with rigid plastic frames holding the curved tinted Ultrasin lenses it featured folding spectacle arms.

 

The second version appeared in 1940 and retained the same lenses (tinted Ultrasin for sun protection or now also clear glass) like its predecessor in rigid frames. The main difference is the ribbed elastic strap which replaced the folding arms.

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The third version featured here became available in 1944 and was produced with a three piece hinged frame which increased wearing comfort as it better adapted to te wearer´s face. The ribbed elastic strap and choice of clear or tinted lenses were retained from the second version.

 

This specimen features Ultrasin tinted lenses for sun protection.

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                                                                                                                                                                bcn2020-05-19