WH (Heer/Waffen-SS) Combat Y-straps (Koppeltraggestell für Infanterie). The combat Y-straps were developed in April 1939 along with the M39 backpack to replace the earlier M34 backpack with integral shoulder straps. The combat Y-straps were also utilized with other backpacks including the A-Frame Assault pack and were designed to assist in distributing the weight of the equipment carried on the load bearing waist belt to the shoulders. This is a pair of Y-straps which has been constructed of captured British webbing material, the British markings and 1939 date are still clearly visible. The Y-straps are nicely maker marked, the stamp is hard to read but these Y-straps are known to have been produced in the Ghetto of Lodz, called 'Wirtschaftsamt Litzmannstadt'. The Y-straps are in good used and worn condition with normal age and usage toning and light surface spotting and some rust to the steel fittings. Rare original Y-straps in good used condition!