With the founding of the Bundeswehr (West German army) in 1955, a new style of uniform and individual equipment was needed, one that did not resemble the German army during World War II. Within the individual equipment system, a new style of water bottle was required to be carried with a new style of web equipment.
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The small combat bag, made from cotton canvas, was designed for operations under 24 hours. Issued by the West German army in the 1960s, it replaced a larger “messenger” bag. This compact bag carried a prescribed number of items when soldiers were in the field. After the German army removed the bag it became a popular item in surplus markets.
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The Rucksack is a stone grey canvas pack based on the 42-pattern Bergen and M-41 style rucksacks. It cleverly incorporates a fold-up sleeping mat as a frame. Initially used by the West German army in the ’60s, it can be attached to either web suspenders or a “packboard” frame. The Rucksack features a spacious lid, main compartment, and front/side pouches.
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