WH (Heer) A-Frame Combat Assault Pack or 'Gefechtsgepäck' (Sturmgepäck). The combat assault A-frame packs were introduced in 1939 and designed for wear with the Y-straps and were utilized by assault troops to lighten their load and still carry necessary items into battle. The assault packs were issued with a separate, small, removable bag (Beutel) that would be strapped to the frame and was designed to carry the K98 rifle cleaning kit, necessary underclothing and toiletries, rations and eating utensils. The assault pack was also designed to have the mess kit and Zeltbahn 31 or a Blanket strapped to the frame giving personnel the capability to carry all the basic necessities into battle. Khaki/tan canvas web strap construction with original riveted leather straps. The straps are in very good supple condition and attached with aluminum rivets. The A-frame is nicely maker marked, the A-frame is an early one with a mix from metal and aluminum parts and probably dates around 1939/1940. The A-frame is showing traces of usage and a nice patina. Hard to find original early war A-Frame in clearly used condition!