Original German WWII Heer Army M31 Breadbag in Olive Green Canvas Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a wonderful example of an M31 Haversack, also known as the “breadbag”. The bag itself does appear to be complete and has all original buttons, clips and leather securing tabs retained. The canvas body still has a lovely color to it and is similar in appearance to the tropical breadbags but has leather straps instead of the iconic webbing. These were brought out later in the war circa 1943-1944.

It is in very good condition, though the leather on it does show some deterioration and stretching. The leather around the belt straps is particularly dried out. There are the traces of markings on the strap for the central clip, but they are illegible.

A lovely example presented with some great condition original canvas. Comes more than ready for further research and display.

Several items of field gear were carried over from the First World War by the German military. One of the most well-known is the breadbag. This was a small bag which fastened to the belt and was used as a general purpose carry all bag for the most basic needs of a soldier. The same basic design was used for nearly 100 years by the German military, police and political organizations.

During WWII, the standard pattern bag was known as the “M31”. This featured minor changes from its WWI predecessor. The SA, HJ and a plethora of political and government organizations also had their own models but those will not be dealt with here. Most varied only in color and the number of loops on the flap from the standard M31.

Breadbags came in a variety of colors and fabrics. Generally, early and pre-War bags are made from cotton canvas which tends toward a gray or fieldgray color. 1940-42 dated bags are often more of a khaki-olive. At the same time, cotton shortages led to the introduction of a coarser linen or hemp canvas. This fabric is usually olive green, though shades of khaki and brown exist.

In 1940, an all-cloth bag was issued for use in hot climates. The bag was the same as the standard M31 except that the leather straps and tabs were replaced with cotton webbing pieces.

Late in the War, the M44 Breadbag was introduced. It was simplified for faster production and a small pocket was added to hold the rifle cleaning kit. Finally, a Volksturm model was made in 1944-45.