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 Named Carrying can, all with WWII dates and markings. Also included are spare lenses in the compartment. 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 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 1943 under the right side gasket with a multitude of other numbers. It is stamped with the 3 letter code bwz, which is for manufacture by Auer-Gesellschaft AG, Werk Oranienburg. German WWII Gas masks came in 3 sizes, this example is a size 2 (medium), which is indicated by a number stamped on the front between the eyepieces. 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 m30 are painted blue, and are the correct late issue 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 inserts are still in very good shape, and easy to see through.

The snout, also made from 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 has the correct 3rd Model snout, dated 44 in a circle, with a bmw marking, a known marking on these masks.

The included model FE 41 filter can has all original ink & paint stamps present. It is maker marked gnh for Auer Gesellschaft AG, Danzig, and also has a 1943 date on the side, as well as on the top. The Waffenamt inspection mark on the top looks to read WaA 867.

Condition of the mask is very good to excellent, with great rubber and all parts intact. The 1944 dated lens inserts show minimal deterioration, and the maker names can still be read. 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. This is really a great example of an M30 Mask!

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 only. The can is in very good original condition, and does not look to have had any post war repainting. The spare lens compartment has a name label for a Grenadier.

The spare lens insert compartment still has the original retaining spring, and contains four pairs of original inserts, still in their original wrapper. The straps are still present, showing wear consistent with age and use.

Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas mask in excellent condition, complete with filter, named canister and other accessories. Ready to add to your collection, research, and display!