M-1 Liner Suspension System “Neck Band I”

Big Red here with another question from "Mort Walker"...

So, TAKE FIVE!

Mort asks,

"Big Red, if the strap that is attached to the liner is the Neck Band Support, then why is the strap that snaps to it called a Nape Strap?"

Good question Mort,

For the same reason a helmet’s loops are called bales or bails...

Because collectors invented names to describe the component parts of the M-1 helmet without the benefit of the reference materials available today.

Neck Bands were variable length straps cut from the same fabric webbing used to make the suspension assemblies. They were intended to help stabilize the helmet on a wearer's head by resting against the nape of the neck.

Each band was cut to length with pinking shears and had the cut ends dipped in rubber cement to prevent fraying.

Each band also had two pairs of male snap fasteners positioned 5/8-inch in from the cut edges and separated from each other according to the size band desired.

The size of the finished band was identified with a number stamped on the band in black ink.

The Neck Band was an insert issued to the wearer who then used the male snap fasteners to attach the Neck Band to the female fasteners on the Neck Band Support.

Big Red Says!

FIVE'S OVER  -  MOVE OUT!