Original Item: Only One Set Available. This is the first time we have offered one of these as a set! This is an excellent condition model M30 G-Maske or Gasschutzmaske (Gas protection mask), complete with an original Filter and Carrying can, all maker marked with early WWII dates.
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. This mask has a maker mark of a “Triangle” under the top gasket, but it is faded and cannot be read. Under the right side gasket it is dated 1940, over 2 for the size. The mask is in good condition, though the rubberized coating on the canvas has be come brittle and started to degrade.
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 on this later issue version are of the green painted non-magnetic metal, and 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, and one is dated 1939, while the other is dated 1940. In 1943, due to material shortages, some gas masks were made with steel fittings, and had blue painted fittings to indicate that they were “magnetical”.
The snout, also made from metal had 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 third model, and is marked H in a circle as well as with date 39. The included filter is marked FE37, along with a date of 1940 and a nice Waffen inspection stamp. There also is maker code crt, which we have not been able to identify.
The included carry case is a Short Model Wehrmacht type, produced from 1936 to 1938. It still has the original original metal inner sleeve, and is in great original condition, with no no repainting we can see. It has some wear and denting, and the red primer coat can be seen where the paint has worn. It is marked 2 / 16 on the side, which matches the marking on the snout of the mask. The spare lens compartment is marker marked JOHN A. G. and dated 1936. The bottom of the case has a Waffenamt inspection stamp as well as a 39 date. Inside the compartment is an intact retaining spring holding two unwrapped lenses dated 1937. Both carrying straps are present, and in very good shape, with no tears.
Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas mask set, all nicely marked and dated. Ready to add to your collection and display!