WH (Heer) M44 Rucksack
This is a nice original WH (Heer) M44 Model Backpack (Rücksack). During the war the early M34 and M39 Affe backpacks were found to be too expensive and time consuming to produce which resulted in the production of a wide variety of less expensive canvas construction combat rucksacks and backpacks. This is a late war back-pack, intended and developed to replace the 'Sturmgepäck'. It is executed in green coloured, 'heavy-duty' canvas and has a rounded fold-over closing flap. The back shows the four specific hooks (identical as those found on the 'Sturmgepäck') which could be hooked-in on the standard Y-straps, making them handy back-packs. The rucksack has two (50 cms. long) brown leather leather roller-buckle straps attached, intended to affix the shelter-quarter (or 'Zeltbahn') and poles/herrings. There is also an affixed inner-pouch (closed by means of a leather strap), intended to hold some private items, like towels etc. The rucksack is not visible maker marked or dated. Nice original example in very good condition!