FAQ
Frequently asked questions
The most common places to search for a flight helmet are eBay, Craigslist, Facebook, military surplus stores, or shows.
The US Air Force and US Navy fly with different helmets. They vary between years, and some crossover is always
possible. This is a general guide to help with search terms, not a comprehensive list; exceptions, sub-models, and other designations exist.
USAF
1960–1985 — HGU-2 or HGU-26
1980–current — HGU-55
US Navy
1950s–mid-60s — APH-5
Mid-60s–1982 — APH-6
Mid-70s–1982 — DH-151 (HGU-33 predecessor)
1982–1995 — HGU-33
1987–1995 — HGU-55
1994–current — HGU-68
If your helmet is fitted with a visor assembly, or the holes are visible, measure them centre to centre. Holes 1.5
inches apart indicate a Large or XL; holes 1.25 inches apart indicate a Medium.
HGU-55s and HGU-68s may have original size stickers on the rear of the shell under the liner or behind the right ear cup. A dual visor assembly has flesh-colored spacers under a white visor track on a Medium. If the white tracks touch the shell and housing, it is a Large.
Yes. Reach out to us for specific information and a quote.
Reflective tape helps Search & Rescue locate a pilot or aircrew member who has gone down in the water. It began being used in the 1950s, and covering the entire Navy helmet in white was mandated starting in 1983–84. Full-color or painted helmets were made in 1984 or earlier, although exceptions can be found.
We only use top-quality 3M tape. Occasionally, custom prints can be done.
This varies depending on the starting condition and our project schedule. It can take anywhere from weeks to months. Taped helmets are completed faster than painted helmets.
Many people fly with an old helmet; however, a newer helmet provides better protection and less weight. A flight helmet can be retrofitted with new parts to make it flyable. Correct communications compatibility is important when ordering parts. Send us photos for an accurate assessment of the work needed.
Yes. This varies greatly depending on the starting condition. Saving family history and heirlooms is why we got into flight helmets. We can build a replica based on old photos or recondition the original you still have. Maintaining originality is very important, and all decisions will be discussed before any work is done.
Yes. Send us a message for a quote.