🔥 How to Mount Your Fire Helmet Shield (Without Screwing It Up)
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🔥 How to Mount Your Fire Helmet Shield (Without Screwing It Up)
So, you finally got your custom leather shield—now what?
It’s time to mount it right. Whether you’re breaking in a brand-new Phenix lid or throwing it on a battle-worn traditional, here’s how to do it without looking like a probie.
Step 1: Don’t Panic When You See No Holes
Your shield won’t come pre-punched, and that’s not a mistake—it’s on purpose. Every lid is a little different, and we leave it to you (or your quartermaster) to punch it where it fits best.
Why? Because cookie-cutter mounting doesn’t work when your gear’s been bent, melted, or broken in. You’ve got to line it up yourself if you want it looking squared away.
Step 2: Line It Up First—Punch Second
Before you touch a drill or punch, hold the shield on your helmet and figure out where it naturally lines up best. Some guys like it high and tight. Others drop it a little lower. It’s your call—but get the alignment right first.
Once it sits where you want it. Press it firmly into the screw heads or studs. This will be your mark for puching or drilling.
Double check. Then check again.
Crooked shields = roasted at the kitchen table.
Step 3: Punch or Drill Carefully
If you’re mounting to a Phenix First Due, you’ll likely be using Chicago screws or similar fasteners. Other brands like the Cairns N6A will have studs in the helmet. A simple hole punch, leather awl, or drill with a sharp bit works fine.
Pro tip: Do not punch/drill the hole the same size as the head of the screw this will make the hole too big. If drilling use a sharp bit for a much cleaner hole, drill from the back to the front, and place something between the shield and table such as carboard. This will reduce scratching to the front. We also recommend a second person to hold the shield while drilling.
Step 4: Fasten It Up
Line it back up and bolt it down. Tighten until it’s snug—not until the leather cries.
If your hardware didn’t come with your helmet or department, you can grab mounting kits online or at most uniform supply shops.
Step 5: Break It In
Now throw your lid on and own it. First day with a new shield? Expect questions. And by questions, we mean smartass remarks.
Wear it with pride, because that leather says something—and it ain’t quiet.
Need a Shield or Still Debating Your Layout?
Got questions? Hit us up. We’ll walk you through it—or give you grief until you get it mounted straight.