Original German WWII M30 3rd Model Gas Mask in Size 2 with Filter and Can – Dated 1943 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a nice condition model M30 G-Maske or Gasschutzmaske (Gas protection mask), complete with an original Filter and Carrying can, all with WWII Dates and markings. This example looks to have been issued to the German Luftschutz, as indicated by markings stamped on the inside above the eyes:

RL1 – 38 / 3
Vertrieb gemäß § 8
Luftschutzgesetz genehmigt
AUER

This indicates the distribution information: Distribution approved according to Section 8 Air protection legislation.
 
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 wearer’s 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 dated 11 1939 under the right side gasket, and has maker mark AUER in between the eyes. This indicates manufacture by Auer-Gesellschaft AG in Berlin, who manufactured many gas masks during the war.

The mask is in good condition, still mostly soft, though the rubber seam seals are starting to degrade. There is also degradation to the suede gasket, which has torn through in several places, showing the inner padding. 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 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 anti-fog 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 anti-fog lenses in this example are great, and are clearly dated 1943.
 
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 a third model, with the M38 style snout, marked with “H” in a circle, a known marking, and dated 39.
 
The included filter is marked with OKT43, along with a nice Waffen inspection stamp, and is also maker marked AUER. There are additional paint markings, but they are unclear.

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 metal inner sleeve. The can is in good original condition, with no repainting. The spare lens compartment still has the original retaining spring with lenses.

Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas mask, issued for air protection during the war. Ready to add to your collection and display!