I've got a couple of British wartime motorcyclists helmets here, one dated 1943 and one dated 1945. The 1945 one is smooth khaki green and the 1943 one has sand in the mix, as was usual with the standard British helmet of the day. Both are unmolested and have original paintwork, but does anyone know why there is a difference in texture?

Might be to stop reflection in moonlight etc

& the smooth one for peace time use with no need for sand ? ?

The sandy one is for traction in slippery conditions.

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