Farewell to the Wobble Pot?

Generations of G.I.s have learned to use the bowl-shaped M1 combat helmet as a hammer for tent stakes, a shaving basin and a stew pot --as well as, of course, a means of protection. But the old "wobble pot" is also literally a pain in the neck. It comes in only one size (with adjustable liner), feels like a ton (actual weight: 3 Ibs. 4 oz.) and a soldier has to hold it on when he runs. At last, relief is in sight. The U.S. Army Research and Development Command at Natick, Mass., is field-testing a new design. Made of a high-strength organic fiber, it features a flattened top and "skirts" that come down over the ears and nape of the neck; it looks unnervingly like the German model of World War II, but offers 30% more protection against shrapnel than the old Ml. The weight is about the same but it comes in three sizes, and soldiers who have tested it say it feels lighter, mainly because the wobble is eliminated.

If the Defense Department decides the new helmet is worth close to $50 v. $15 for the Ml, the old pot could soon go the way of Willie and Joe and the draft.

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