The metal ears and the visor hold the two halves(front and back) and the mandibles in place together and help keep the plastic from moving about.
I removed these items and can easily spread apart the mandibles and would say it is flimsy, but a very solid helmet when put together.
It is indeed a very beautiful helmet, and with the right care im sure it can withstand the rigors of trooping.
Why did you removed the ears?I would only remove the thin visor and put the fiberglass direct in the helmet.
The plastic is thin like the facemask of the PCR Vader.Not a problem for me.The stresslines are not really nice...but you must see the price.
A fiberglasshelmet with lineage and paintjob like this costs the double or more.