Established in 1962 by a young, enthusiastic ex-marine named Charles E. “Cholly” Steen III, Sarco Inc. (short for Steen Armament Research Company), began life on the gun show circuit and has since expanded into what is arguably the largest dealer of surplus military materials in the country. With three generations of Steens now in the mix, Sarco continues its family focus on rare original firearms parts while expanding into complete firearms, commercial firearms, accessories, militaria, and re-enactment accouterments. We have the largest supply of firearms and machine gun parts in the world, as well as one of the best ranges of World War 2 Helmets.

There were type main types of World War 2 Helmets: the M1, worn by US soldiers, as well as a variety of other allies, and the Stahlhelm (German for steel helmet) of which the M35 is the most recognizable.

The M1 was, essentially, two helmets in one. The outer, metal shell was made of non-magnetic Hadfield steel. It was called the “steel pot,” and was primarily designed to protect soldiers from shrapnel. Informal testing of the M1 showed that the helmet’s shell was able to stop pistol fire. Two simple adjusting buckles allowed the M1 to fit any soldier’s head, and a removable liner allowed the steel pot to be used as a bucket in the field. The M1 was used by the US for over forty years. Chrome-plated, or painted, versions of the M1 are still used in ceremonial units.

Here at Sarco Inc., we sell the US M1 style olive drab helmet complete with liner, chinstraps, suspension, and sweatband. Our helmets are in excellent condition, with no major dents, dings, or cracks that you usually find on M1 helmets from the US and Europe. They make a great gift for any veteran, or military enthusiast.

But what about the Stahlhelm?

This steel helmet began its use in 1916, during the First World War. In 1935, there was a series of design changes aimed at reducing the helmet’s production cost and increase its durability, resulting in the M35 model, which quickly became a recognizable feature of Wehrmacht soldiers. The M35 was designed to protect the brain’s frontal and occipital lobes, which control problem-solving, memory, language, motor function, and vision, without sacrificing its soldier’s view of the battlefield. To reduce the helmet’s visibility, soldiers would paint them with gray-green matte paint.

At Sarco Inc, we sell an M35 Stahlhelm with a rolled edge, metal banded liner, and leather chinstrap assembly mounted by the rivets to thick steel shell painted ‘feldgrau’ green. Our helmets fit head sizes from 7 ¼” to 7 ⅝”. Our helmets are new and well-made, perfect for static displays or reenactments.

Currently, we manage our sales through three avenues: the web, phone, and our showroom. Located at 50 Hilton St, in Easton, PA, our 7,000 square foot showroom stocks over 2,000 firearms—products ranging from original militaria to new commercial tactical accessories. We provide retail and wholesale products on both the domestic and international levels. Contact us today at (610) 250-3961 to get started with your Sarco Inc. experience.