Die Bricke Wochenschau: How to create a German M56 Helmet

The East German M56 helmet is one of the most distinctive military helmets of the Cold War and I need them for a MOC I'm planning however there are no available LEGO-compatible M56 helmets to buy. Luckily a BrickArms Japanese WWII helmet can be modified to create a surprisingly decent alternative. In this guide I will show the process I used to convert a Japanese helmet into an M56 using only basic tools and paint. Please consider this is a prototype. When I do more they will look better. I used ChatGPT to organize all the steps.

Left picture source: https://hessenantique.com/east-german-m56-steel-helmet-refurbished/

Tools and Materials

BrickArms Japanese WWII helmet
Nail file
Fine sanding tool or sandpaper (not used for this prototype but helpful if you want a better result)
Small paintbrush
Grey paint (I used an acrylic one)
Varnish

Original Japanese Helmet from BrickArms

Step 1 – Remove the Rim

The first step is to file away the raised rim that runs around the entire helmet.

The goal is to create a smooth, flat edge all the way around. Take your time and remove material gradually to avoid uneven spots.

Step 2 – Shape the M56 Profile

The original Japanese helmet has a rounded and symmetrical shape that will help us. It lacks some frontal slope but it is okay.

To replicate the M56 choose the front half of the helmet and carefully file a stepped transition into the profile. The rear section should sit slightly lower than the front, creating the characteristic silhouette of the East German helmet.

Check the shape frequently from the side.

Move it up and down the nail file until you create the desired step. If you apply more effort you will get it fast so be careful you don't cut too much plastic. This applies to every time you use the nail file.

Step 3 – Remove Mold Lines and Imperfections

Once the basic shape is complete remove any plastic filaments and rough edges or filing marks.

Use progressively finer sanding to round off sharp corners and achieve a smooth finish.

If you remove too much plastic or make scratches you can apply some plastic putty over it and sand it to repair the helmet surface. It isn't easy but it is worth the try. I will use in the rest of the helmets I create.

Step 4 – Painting

After cleaning the part with water and dried it apply a thin coat of grey paint.

Several thin coats usually produce a better result than one thick coat.

Now let it dry. A couple hours should be more than enough.

Step 5 – Varnish

Once the paint has fully cured apply a clear varnish to protect the finish and improve durability during handling. I use mate varnish. Sometimes I use normal one to protect more and then mate varnish over it. I'm no expert I don't know how effective it is but I like to do it.

Final Result

The finished piece captures the distinctive shape of the East German M56 while using a readily available BrickArms Japanese WWII helmet as the base. It's a simple conversion that requires only basic tools and a little patience. The final result is a 8/10 for me if you don't mess up during the process. A proper 3D printed one will look better but oh well this is cheaper at least for me. I hope it is useful!