Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very scarce original French Model 1905 mounted artillery knapsack / haversack dating to the First World War period. Equipment of this type is considerably harder to find than standard infantry field gear, and this example remains in very good service worn condition.

The bag is constructed from a coarse linen or hemp type fabric and has a large front flap secured by two leather buckle closures. It retains its original combination canvas and leather carry strap, which remains in good condition overall.

A stamped cartouche is present on the right side of the front flap, although it has faded to the point that we are unable to read it with confidence. Additional issue or inspection stamps are visible on the underside of the flap.

Beneath the flap is an interior pocket, now missing its original closure button. This would have been fitted with a standard French military equipment type button, most likely of aluminum or zinc construction.

The interior of the bag is divided into two unequal compartments, reflecting its specialized use as mounted field equipment.

Unlike a conventional infantry haversack worn directly by the soldier, this pattern was intended primarily for use with saddle or carriage horses by mounted artillery personnel, making it an interesting piece of French horse equipment from the period when artillery units still depended heavily on animal transport.

The bag shows honest service wear throughout, with age toning, staining, and wear to the fabric and leather fittings, but remains structurally sound and very displayable.

A page of reference material relating to this pattern is included inside the bag and was taken from 1940 Le Soldat Français, Volume 2, by Olivier Bellec.

A particularly uncommon piece of French WWI mounted artillery equipment, retaining its original carry strap, compartmented interior, surviving period stamps, and strong service used character.