M38 shell opinion

[Beorix]

Hello all, i have the opportunity to buy this shell for about 400 €, is this original ?
i have no better photos for the moment. No markings seen from the seller (rust ?)

[Sergey K.]

No, I wouldn't pay for this one as for original. It's a fake shell..

[Willi Z.]

I agree. The details of the inner rim indicate a fake.

[Beorix]

Thanks for your opinions, it's very rusted ,and the seller told me that it has been found 30 years ago, it's that fooled me ,i suppose..
Should i get better photos of the rim, or no need ?

[Sergey K.]

No need extra pix, sellers very often tell stories ..
as Willi noticed already presented inner rim detail enough to judge.

[Julfrenchie]

I agree with all the previous message, not one i'll buy, the rim isn't good at all.

[Beorix]

ok, thanks for your help, i may have bought this shell, without it..
So, if i understand correctly, ALL versions of M38 helmets, should have this machining trace on the rim ?
What about this one ? a late war helmet (from Ratisbons site) without this rim line ??

[eubank]

It may actually well be there on other parts of the rim , maybe just faint. I think some fakes may have the mid rim mark on too. Best to look at it as a whole - overall shape is key to it also.

[Willi Z.]

It's not just the rim line, or whatever it is called. It is also the way in which the rim was rolled.

There is no simple magic answer. The shell shape, markings, bolt holes an recesses, etc.

The real way to learn is to handle original FJ helmets. Fake are easily dismissed merely by picking them up. From photos you need to see the details, so when those photos are not included, one must be suspicious. Most sellers know what they are selling.

[Beorix]

Hello ,thanks one more time for your points of view.
Of course the seller isnt a specialist of the M38 helmet, but he sent me this photo, i suppose it not would change anything to your opinions

[eubank]

It’s too sharp / acute an angle so - again - not a good one.

[Beorix]

Ok, i forgot it definetely, thanks to all that answered this post.

[kbec37]

sorry it's a fake too !