Original German WWII M38 Gas Mask With FE 41 Filter and Canister with Gas Cape Bag – Dated 1942 & 1944 Original Items

Original Item. Only One Available. This is a phenomenal M38 German Gas Mask manufactured by bwz, or Auer-Gesellschaft AG, Werk Oranienburg, as can be seen on the side of the mask’s mouthpiece. This example is complete with an original filter still with its metal and plastic cap, its original canister with the straps retained, a bottle of Skin Detoxification ointment, and an original gas cape bag. This is a really phenomenal gas mask set with several accessories.

The Model M38 was first issued to troops in 1938, replacing the earlier M30, made of rubberized canvas and rubber. The M-38 body is made completely of rubber, ensuring a great seal, and less issues with degradation in service. The spring-loaded 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.

The mask itself is a Size 2, as marked at the top of the mask under the small green rubber tab. There is a red stamp with a crown over C.F. in a circle on the right cheek, indicating that this mask was used post-war by Denmark. On the interior, you can read 42 bwz on the mouthpiece, indicating the maker, Auer-Gesellschaft AG, Werk Oranienburg, and the date of manufacture, 1942.

Condition of the mask is very good to excellent, with great rubber and all parts intact. 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.

The filter still has its metal cap on the top, and the small plastic cap on the bottom. It’s stamped FE 41 Fe and is ink-stamped crt44. This indicates the maker, Clora Atemschutzgeräte (Respirator) Schleich & Co. in Schwäbisch Gmünd, and the manufacture date, 1944.

The bottle of ointment has a (41) after the title, likely meaning a date of 1941.

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 extending latch and the original straps with the leather insert. There are still spare lenses housed under the lid, and there is some padding at the bottom of the canister for the filter.

The gas cape bag is empty but the snaps are still present although heavily oxidized. There is also a small hole in the bottom of the bag. This is a very rare piece to find with an original mask, and besides some minor staining it’s a great addition.

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