Original German WWII Early M30 2nd Model Size 3 Gas Mask with Filter & 1936 Dated Can Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent condition model M3) G-Maske or Gasschutzmaske (Gas protection mask), complete with an original Filter and Carrying can, with WWII Dates and markings.

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. We looked under the gasket of this mask, but unfortunately there are no legible markings except for a WaffenAmt mark. The mask is in very good condition, however the rubberized coating on the inside has started to degrade and flake off in places. Also the rubber seam seals are quite brittle. German WWII Gas masks came in 3 sizes, however there is no legible size marking on this mask.

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 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 good shape, though they are a bit cloudy, bearing identical maker marks and the date 1938.

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. This example is a second model, which is essentially the same as the first model, with an additional cover over the exhaust valve and is maker marked A2B, seen on fittings for Gas masks made throughout the war. The included filter is marked with FE41, along with a nice Waffen inspection stamp, and is maker marked and dated crt 44 / 5. This indicates manufacture in May 1944 by Clora Atemschutzgeräte (Respirator) Schleich & Co. in Schwäbisch Gmünd.

The included carry case is an Early Wehrmacht Short Model case, which is about 10 inches tall, and is the type made from 1935-1936. Unlike the later models, it has a standard lever closing latch, not a spring loaded one. It still has the original original metal inner sleeve, though the rag and retainer are gone. The can is in very good original condition, with very nice paint. The spare lens compartment marked G.F.N. 1936, for a maker we have not been able to identify. There is also a Waffenamt Wa.A.193 marking, under a Weimar Eagle. The compartment opens well, and still has the original retaining spring, with a spare lens packet inside. Inside the packet are two 1939 dated lenses with their cardboard supports. Both of the carry straps are present, and are made of a very thick canvas, much more sturdy than later models. The opening strap is present as well.

Overall, a really nice military issue German Early WWII Gas mask set with great markings. Ready to add to your collection and display!