UBB.threads Forums Uniform & Accessories German Military Uniform Forum helmet preservation question

I recently purchesed m35 on craigs list it was green but was painted black Im assuming after the war to make it look like an ss helmet. but Im not sure. should I leave it alone or strip it and restore it?
thanks

I haven't posted in awhile, so I'll answer your question. If it is an obvious postwar repaint over original paint, then you may very well want to remove the overpaint. I used straight acetone once, and it was wayyyy too stong. Use fingernail polish remover, which is a diluted acetone, apply with very gentle circular rubbing motions, use a small amount of polish remover to be safe. It will soon evaporate, apply some more to a clean spot on your soft rag, and keep going gently. Test out an inconspicuous place on the helmet to get started. Be especially careful if there are original decals hiding out under the paint. Chris....