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The M1916 Stahlhelm was designed with battlefield realities in mind. It featured a hemispherical shape with an outer rim to deflect shrapnel and debris. Inside, padded liners maintained a snug fit, and the helmet could be fitted with additional protective elements, such as the Stirnpanzer (forehead armor) and, rarely, the Lobster armor — a heavy chestplate weighing approximately 16 kg, primarily used by infantry acting as sentries or in hazardous positions, though its practical use was limited.
Design Features
The helmet's steel construction provided better protection against shrapnel and minor projectiles.
Ventilation was achieved through the eight-millimeter "air holes" on either side.