The Australian M-1956 Load Bearing Equipment was an adaptation of the U.S. M1956 system, modified to suit local operational needs and environments. Combining American design with Australian experience, it provided improved load-carrying capacity and durability for combat operations from the late 1950s through to the 1980s.
Read More »
Introduced in 1974, the pouch used the Large Ammunition Pouch as its design base and could hold two 30-round magazines. Instead of belt clips, it used belt loops with press studs, while steel D rings on the back allowed for attaching other items. These pouches saw limited use due to the short service life of the L4A4.
Read More »
When Australia realized that the US M1956 load-carrying equipment was inadequate for their style of soldiering, they set about modifying the system. One issue was the Canadian 51-Pattern holster.
With the introduction of the new web system in the mid-1960s, Australia adapted the 51-pattern holster design, making it slightly smaller and tighter to better fit the Browning Hi-Power pistol.
Read More »
The Field Pack, Combat, or the Butt Pack, was originally designed as part of the M-1956 system for the Australian Defense Force in the 1960s. It could also be worn separately with the aid of a shoulder strap . Made of olive drab cotton webbing and later cotton and polyester blended canvas, it has a single compartment with a lid secured by webbing straps and metal buckles, with additional attachment options on the sides and lid.
Read More »
The Pouch, Ammunition, Large was a vital component of the Australian Army’s M-1956 Web Equipment, serving as a reliable way to hold a substantial amount of ammunition during patrolling. This pouch remained in use until roughly 1988.
Read More »
