Original German WWII M38 Gas Mask in Size 1 with Filter & Canister – dated 1944 – Magnetic Fittings Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent condition model M38 G-Maske or Gasschutzmaske (Gas protection mask), complete with an original Filter and Carrying can, all with WWII Dates and markings.

The model M38 was first issued to troops in 1938, replacing the earlier M30, made of rubberized canvas and rubber. The 38 body is made completely of rubber, ensuring a great seal, and less issues with degradation in service. The spring-loaded 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 masks were put into the mold for the rubber body, with this example marked on the filter attachment “btc” and dated “44”. The filter has a 1942 Date. The can is dated 1943 and is maker marked with hhu on the spare lens compartment for manufacture by H.A. Erbe AG, Schmalkalden in Thueringen.

German WWII Gas masks came in 3 sizes, this example is a size 1 (large), 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 later issue m30 are painted blue, and are the later magnetic type (confirmed with a magnet). Circa 1943, due to material shortages, gas masks were made with steel fittings, and had blue painted fittings to indicate that they were “magnetical”. The eye frames house the Celluloid eye pieces, which could easily be replaced should they become damaged in any way. Replacement lenses were carried in the top of the gas mask carrying tin and 1943 dated ones are present in this one. The installed lenses are in good shape and dated 1943.

The snout, also made from magnetic 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. The included filter is stamped with FE41 A, along with a date of 1942 and a nice Waffen inspection stamp.

The included carry case is a Long Model 1938 Wehrmacht type, which was introduced to house the stiffer M38 gas masks. It has the original metal inner sleeve, but not both of the Reinigungslappen (Cleaning Rag) and Lappenhalter (Rag Holder) spring. The can is in very good original condition, and does appear to have had at least 1 field repaint done. The spare lens insert compartment still has the original retaining spring. The straps are no longer present.

Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas mask, still retaining the original issued accessories. Ready to add to your collection and display!