Original German WWII Foldable Cable Reel Backpack by Rich. Leppert K.G. with Wire Spool – dated 1939 Original Items

Original Item. Only One Available. During the Second World War, radio was still a relatively new invention, and also was not really the most secure method of communication. Wired communication, either telegraph or telephone, was still very widely used on the for communication behind the front lines, which mean that large distances of wire had to be laid down relatively quickly. To make this easier and faster, the German military developed specialized folding backpacks to be used for laying cable. The design was a relatively simple steel frame, with sides that folded out to hole a large wire spool. Different gauges of wire would be used depending on the intended purpose.

This example is in very good condition, and still comes complete with an original wire spool, wound with relatively thin gauge fabric insulated wire. It still has both of the original heavy leather shoulder straps, which use D-Rings on the bottom to attach to hooks on the frame of the backpack. There is also a cross strap that fastens the two shoulder straps together to prevent them slipping apart. Based on the design the back pack would hang relatively low on the back. there is also another leather strap, which connects to a “brake” on the wire spool, which would keep it from spinning. One side of the wire spool has gears on it and an extended shaft that would be used to quickly wind the spool when removed from the frame.

The back pack measures approximately 13″W x 14″H x 12″, and weighs about 34lbs with the wire spool installed. We have not attempted to remove it, but we assume that the spool can be removed with some work. The right side of the pack frame is marked in a rectangle with the full German maker information:

RICH. LEPPERT K.G.
LIMBACH SA.
1939

We have not been able to find much on Richard Leppert K.G. in Limbach, Saarland, however it does appear to be a known maker of these foldable backpacks. Next to the maker mark is a Waffenamt WaA129.

Overall condition is very good, with a lovely broken in look that shows it saw real use in service. The wire on the spool is definitely degraded, as the fabric insulation has deteriorated over the years. The frame itself is also just a bit bent out of shape. The leather straps are all in good shape, showing some cracking due to age.

A very interesting piece of German WWII military equipment, ready to display!