Original Item: Only One Set Available. This is the first time we have offered one of these as a set! This is an excellent condition model M30 G-Maske or Gasschutzmaske (Gas protection mask), complete with an original Filter and Carrying can, as well as a Gasplane mit Tasche (Gas Cape and Pouch), all fully maker marked with early WWII dates. WWII German order (H.M. 210), dated March 15, 1939, introduced the gas cape as an additional protective measure against the vesicant effects of some gas, and it was carried in a case that slipped nicely around the Gas Mask Can Carrying bag. We’ve seen some of the Pouches before, but the capes are exceedingly rare, usually only available as reproductions.
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 wearers 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 maker marked RAECKL(?) under the top suede, and with date 10 1939 under the right hand side. Under the left side there is a Waffenamt inspection mark, and there are other numerical markings on the inside.
German WWII Gas masks came in 3 sizes, this example is a size 2 (Medium), which was usually indicated by a number printed on the front of the mask between the eye pieces. 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 on this later issue version are of the cheaper grey Ferrous metal, and house the Celluloid 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 installed lenses are in great shape, and are both dated 1940.
The snout, also made from metal had 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. This example is a third model, and is marked E in a circle as well as with date 39. There is also a paint stencil marking of 0499 on the front of the nose, which is also on the lid of the can. The included model FE37 filter can has all original ink stamps present, with a Waffen Eagle stamp, and 1939 date.
The included carry case is a Long Model 1938 Wehrmacht type, which was introduced to house the stiffer M38 gas masks. It still has the original original metal inner sleeve, and is in great original condition, with no repainting. The spare lens compartment is marker marked H.A.E. / S. (unknown) and dated 1940, and also has a Waffen inspection stamp. The smaller carrying strap is missing, however the longer one is still present, though it has a significant tear through it. It is looped through the Gas Cape pouch.
The pouch itself is made of supple dark blue rubberized canvas, and is marked with the batch number, maker, and date: 83 TAIFUN 40. There is also a Waffen inspection stamp, but it is hard to read. The snaps all work correctly, and the pouch really is in good shape. The gas cape inside is dated April 1941 / 42 on a paper label. The cape itself is somewhat delicate, and we have not unfolded it. They tend to degrade over time, and we do not recommend opening the cape.
Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas protection set, all nicely marked and dated. Ready to add to your collection and display!