Original German WWII M30 3rd Model Size 2 Gas Mask with Filter & Canister – dated 1939 & 1940 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent condition model M30 G-Maske or Gasschutzmaske (Gas protection mask), complete with an original Filter and Carrying can, all with WWII Dates and markings. Also included are a set of original lens inserts, still in the original wrapping. The mask and accessories are truly in great shape, making this one of the most attractive offerings that we have had.

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 is dated 1939 under the right side gasket, and has a maker mark we do not recognize under the top gasket. There are other markings stamped under the gasket as well. German WWII Gas masks came in 3 sizes, this example is a size 2 (Medium), which is indicated by the 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 lenses are still in very good shape, and easy to see through. Both look to be dated 1939.

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 “N” in a triangle, a known marking, and dated 39. The included model FE37 filter can has all original ink stamps present, with a Waffenamt Eagle Wa. A. 533 stamp, and a 1940 date. It is maker marked with the same marking on the mask.

Condition of the mask really is close to excellent, and it and the filter look to be nearly unissued, with almost no signs of use. The rubber is still supple, and we do not see any cracking or other issues that we often see. The paint is still mostly present on the fittings, and the straps are all in great shape. The suspension straps are in great shape, and show no fraying or breaking of the internal springs.

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 original metal inner sleeve, though the spring and cloth are missing. The can is in very good original condition, and does not look to have had any repainting. The spare lens compartment is marked with an unclear maker code next to 1939. It still has the original retaining spring inside, and contains one 1938 dated insert in the original wrapper. The straps are still present, and in good condition.

Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas mask, complete with the filter and canister. Ready to add to your collection and display!