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 complete with all strap and spare lenses! The set features all WWII Dates and markings. The mask and accessories are truly in great shape, making this one of the most attractive offerings that we have had. In addition, the Gasmask is named to the soldier it was issued “Gebhart, H.”.

The Model M38 was first issued to troops in 1938, replacing the earlier M30, made of rubberized canvas and rubber. The M-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 “bmw” on the mouthpiece which attached the filter canister, for Aluminiumwerke Nuernberg GmbH, Nuernberg, a known producer of WWII gas masks. The mask is dated “41”. The Filter is dated October 1942 (“Okt.42”) and features a black stamped Waffenamt WaA 713 stamp under the right side gasket.

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 on this early issue M38 are painted green, and are the early non-magnetic type. In 1943, due to material shortages, 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.

Condition of the mask really is 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 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. The can is in very good original condition, and does not look to have had any repainting. The spare lens compartment is marked “bvc 42” for maker Zimmermann, G., Metallwarenfabrik, Zirndorf/Nuernberg. The spare lens insert compartment still has the original retaining spring, and contains two pairs of lenses. The exterior of the can features thick textured camouflage paint, which was period applied, with soldier number, “570” painted on the side of the can.

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