WWII Research and Reference Materials

Collecting WWII military items is a significant investment. Before spending your hard-earned money, the best thing you can do is research your items of interest to ensure they are 100% original.
The following reference books and links are the industry standards for researching and authenticating WWII collectibles. Whether you are studying WWII German helmets or Japanese Arisaka rifles, these resources provide the essential data needed to collect with confidence.

WW2 German Reference

Germany's Combat Helmets
1933 - 1945: A Modern Study
Author: Ken Niewiarowicz

Excellent reference book for the WW2 German helmet enthusiast.  Great close-up photos of original decals, liners, liner bands, and chinstraps.  If you are going to collect German helmets, buy this book first!

The History of the German Steel Helmet, 1916-1945
Author: Ludwig Baer

Once considered the bible of German helmet collecting.  This book is an exhaustive research on German helmet production from WW1 through the end of WW2.  The photos are somewhat dated; however, the material is still top notch.  The book is out of print, so check Ebay and military forums for a copy.

SS-Steel: (Expanded Ed.) Parade & Combat Helmets of Germany's Third Reich Elite
Author: Kelly Hicks

If you are interested in collecting SS / Waffen SS helmets, this is the reference book for you.  Kelly Hicks is considered the authority on SS helmets.  The book contains extensive research and great photos on the subject.  If you are going to spend the big bucks on SS helmets, buy this reference book first!

German Helmets Of The
Second World War
Author: Branislav Radovic

This book is laced with beautiful photos of WW2 German helmets.  The book's value lies within these photographs of original WW2 German helmets.  Actual written research and information is lacking.  The author has two other books focused on camo helmets.

Combat Helmets Of The Third Reich
A Study in Photographs 
Author: Thomas Kibler

This comprehensive paperback book covers a range of combat helmets worn by the Wehrmacht and Waffen SS during WW2. The book contains hundreds of detailed color close-ups of decals, liners, rivets, chinstraps, buckles, interior markings and stamps.  A nice addition to your helmet reference collection.

SS Helmets: The History, Use and Decoration of the Helmets of the
Black Corps
Author: Michael D. Beaver

A nice oversized book, which makes a great companion to Kelly Hick's book on SS helmets.  What this book lacks in information, it makes up for with many large beautiful photos.  The book is well written and is a must for any collector of WW2 German SS helmets.

WW2 Japanese Reference

Uniforms and Equipment of the Imperial Japanese Army in World War 2
Author: Mike Hewitt

This is one of the only reference books in English on WW2 Japanese uniforms and gear.  The book contains sufficient photos of original items and supporting text, although close-up photos would improve this book greatly.  The book is weighted more towards early war items--covering uniforms, field equipment, headgear, personal items, and firearms.

Japanese Rifles of World War II
Author: Duncan O. McCollum

Short and sweet, this book covers the rilfes and carbines that made up Japan's arsenal during WW2.  If you are new to collecting Japanese rifles, this is a great place to start.  The author covers all Japanese rifle manufacturers, arsenal marks, series, and other valuable information.  Also included is a section on Japanese WW2 bayonets.  Get the book while it is still in pring and cheap!

WW2 US Reference

The M-1 Helmet of the World War II GI
Author: Pieter Oosterman

A very nice oversized book packed with fantastic detailed close-up photos of the M1 helmet.  Much attention is given to specific manufacturing details, contract numbers and dates involved in the production of M-1 and M-2 helmets.  One of the best reference books available.  If you collect M1s, you need it!

HELMETS OF ETO: A Historical and Technical Guide
Author: Régis Giard

Helmets of the ETO contains very useful reference material with nice supporting photos.  However, a majority of the book reads like a museum full of unit marked M1 helmets with provenance.  The photos in this oversized book are fantastic.  The book is a must for every M1 collector's coffee table!

The M-1 Helmet: A History of the U.S. M-1 Helmet in World War II
Author: Mark A. Reynosa

This book is packed with information regarding the M1 helmet, including an examination of its development and production.  Containing decent period and reference photos, this book really covers it all and serves a valuable reference for new and advanced collectors.

Steel Pots : The History of America's Steel Combat Helmets, Volume 1
Author: Chris Armold

This book, covering all U.S. combat helmets, is often referenced by WW2 helmet collectors.  Steel Pots is packed with extensive research regarding the various types of U.S. combat helmets and production details.  However, if you are looking for a detailed reference book with close-up photos of the M1, this book it not for you.

WWII Links

Where to Find More Information on WWII Helmets, Antiques, Collectibles, and Items:

http://www.aberdeenbookstore.com/ 
http://advancedpots.proboards.com/ 
http://www.gunboards.com/
http://www.k98kforum.com/ 
http://www.wikipedia.org/