Original Item: Only One Available. Excellent genuine World War I M1915 French Army “Adrian” helmet. The helmet retains the original “dark horizon blue” paint and has a plate with large bugle horn insignia and RF to the front. This horn is the insignia of Mountain Infantry called the Chasseurs alpine (alpine hunters). Size is approximately US 7-7/14 (56-58cm). Features a complete original leather liner in fair condition, with remnants of the chin strap Overall condition of the helmet is very good, shell shows some minor dings, scratches and paint chips consistent with age.
Chasseur is the French term for “hunter”, and was originally used to designate light infantry and cavalry units that were trained for rapid action in combat, beginning in 1743. They were considered elite units, and had more specialized tasks than the standard infantry. They could deploy quickly as advance scouts in times of need. By WWI, they were divided into the chasseurs à pied (hunters on foot) and chasseurs alpine (alpine hunters).