Warbird Information Exchange

Thinking about getting a helmet for use in jets and T-6/SNJ.

Thinking about an HGU-55 or -68....anyone have a preference between the two?

Any ideas where to find one that is used but serviceable. Prices for new ones seem to be in the $1000-1300 range and since this will likely be for occasional use only, I'd like to find something a little more affordable.

Any recommendations on where to look?

I got mine (HGU-55) from Government Sales, though it was 15 years ago. They still seem to be the cheapest:

http://www.aviationhelmets.com/helmet2.htm

A problem with used is that most have speakers with the wrong impedance for civilian aircraft, not a huge deal, but does require some rework. I would defintely go Kevlar due to weight, not just for comfort but for reducing inertia if you helmet is ever called upon to do its job.

If I was buying today, I would try to get just the Kevlar shell, and then fit the Oregon Aero liner/earcups.

You are talking about protecting your head, so saving a couple hundred bucks should really not be a consideration, in my opinion, especially when compared to the cost of owning/flying a T-6.

P.M. sent

_________________
Expert:
Ex: Former.
Spurt: A drip under pressure.

eBay...

I second that Plenty on Ebay!

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Magister Aviation
It's all in my book

For GA-use, I'd recommend the HGU-84 (helo helmet). Slightly heavier than the HGU-55/68 but already has crushable earcups (side-impact protection) and the mic boom. They're on eBay once in a while and usually running about $100 cheaper than the HGU-55s.

Unless you need a mask, you should be able to pick up a servicable HGU-55 for about $300-400.

Last year, I paid $480 for a new, in-the-box, HGU-55. All in, GA-ready, about $700. I added the following:
- GA compatible 300-ohm speakers (~$40)
- Gentex electret mic ($20 used on eBay)
- Zetaliner ($35 on eBay)
- leather earcups ($40 from FlightSuits.com)
- mic boom and round mount ($10 from eBay)
- new one-piece wiring harness with dual GA plugs (~$85)

Not to put too fine a point on it, but they are all reasonably priced if you put even a passing value on your melon.

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Eric

"I spent most of my money on alcohol, women and skyraiders....and the rest of it I just wasted."