Original German WWII M30 2nd Model Size 2 Gas Mask with Fe 41 Filter, Canister, Spare Lenses and Decon Kit – dated 1938 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent condition model M30 G-Maske or Gasschutzmaske (Gas protection mask), complete with an original Filter and Carrying can, all with WWII dates and markings. Also included are some very nice spare lenses, still in their original wrappers and even the decon kit. The mask, filter, and can are truly in great shape, making this one of the most attractive offerings that we have had recently.

The model M30 was first issued to troops in 1930, and the mask was produced from rubberized canvas with a soft suede leather frame which fitted around the wearer’s face. The elasticized straps fit over the head and were tightened by means of sliding the web straps through metal buckles until the mask was as tight as the user could stand it – ensuring a good air tight seal. Another strap would be placed around the user’s neck and if the mask was not in use it would rest on the chest should they need it in a hurry.

Markings on these gas masks were usually stamped under the suede frame, which makes them somewhat hard to see. This mask is dated 1938 under the right side gasket with a multitude of other numbers. German WWII Gas masks came in 3 sizes, this example is a size 2 (medium), which is indicated by a number stamped on the front between the eyepieces. The large size masks were designated with “1” and the small size is “3”, which is a bit counter intuitive.

The metal alloy eye socket frames and snout on this early issue m30 are painted green, and are the correct early issue non-magnetic type (confirmed with a magnet). Circa 1943, due to material shortages, many gas masks were made with steel fittings, and had blue painted fittings to indicate that they were “magnetical”. The eye frames house the Celluloid anti-fog eye pieces, which could easy be replaced should they become damaged in any way. Replacement lenses were carried in the top of the gas mask carrying tin. The anti-fog inserts are still in very good shape, and easy to see through.

The snout, also made from non-magnetic metal, has a screw thread, into which the filter was inserted, and beneath that the discharge valve could also be found. The M30 went through three different types of snouts, the last of which was introduced in 1938, and was identical to the snout on the M-38 Rubber gas mask.

The included model FE41 filter can has all original ink & paint stamps present. There is also 1941 date, and what looks to be an inspection or issue stamp. There is an impressed “FE41” on this can.

Condition of the mask is good, and it and the filter looks as if it saw moderate use. The rubber is still supple but there is cracking throughout. The paint is still mostly present on the fittings, and the straps are all in great shape. The suspension straps are in great shape, and show no fraying or breaking of the internal springs but a clip is broken.

The included carry case is a long Model Wehrmacht type, which replaced the short type in 1938. The can is in very good original condition, and does not look to have had any repainting. The is minor deformities in the shape of the can and the metal sleeve is no longer present. The spare lens insert compartment still has the original retaining spring, and contains 4 pairs of original 1938 dated inserts, still in their original wrapper. The straps are still present though stained but in solid condition. Also included are the original bottle of weapon decontamination fluid and the stick of skin decon. Both still retain their original contents and the containers are not compromised.

Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas mask, complete with filter and canister in excellent condition. Ready to add to your collection and display!