Germany entered WWII with the M-35 helmet as standard issue (M-16 and M-18 helmets were still in use too). Due to wartime demands in 1942 the M-42 design was put into production. The rolled edge of the M-35 on the shell was eliminated, creating an unfinished edge along the rim. This edge slightly flared out, along the base of the skirt. The elimination of the rolled edge expedited the manufacturing process and reduced the amount of metal used in each helmet, without sacrificing protection.