British P-1944 Turtle MK IV Steel Helmet

The British P-1944 Turtle Mark IV helmet is a British combat helmet introduced at the end of World War II. This type of helmet is known for its distinctive deep shape (hence the nickname "turtle").

Key Features

• The "Lift-the-Dot" System: The Mark IV differs significantly from its predecessor (the Mk III) due to the introduction of this quick-release system. Instead of a fixed bolt in the crown, there is a press-stud (grommet) in the center of the helmet shell. This allows the soldier to unclip the liner in a single movement. The major advantage in the field was that the detached steel shell could be used as a water bucket or washbasin.
• FFL Marking: The letters FFL stand for Fisher Foil Ltd, a well-known British manufacturer that produced the fabric/artificial leather (Rexine) liners for these helmets during and shortly after World War II.
• Dating: Although the design dates back to 1944 (hence P-1944), this type of helmet with the FFL liner continued production well into the 1950s. They were widely used during the Korean War and the Suez Crisis.