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 as well as post war Danish Civil Defense 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 with an unclear maker mark and dated “40”. The can is dated 1940 on the spare lens compartment.

German WWII Gas masks came in 3 sizes, this example is a size 2 (medium), 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. The included model FE41 filter can some ink stamps present but too faded to read.

Condition of the mask really is excellent, and it and the filter look to be nearly unissued, with signs of light honest use. The rubber is still supple, and we do not see any major cracking or other issues that we often see. The lenses and 1940 dated lens inserts have become somewhat yellowed over time, but are still transparent, with no major cloudiness. The suspension straps are in great shape, and show no fraying or breaking of the internal springs though they appear to be Danish replacements.

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, but is missing both the Reinigungslappen (Cleaning Rag) and Lappenhalter (Rag Holder) spring. The can is in very good original condition, and does not look to have had any repainting. The spare lens insert compartment still has the original retaining spring, and contains a pair of original 1944 dated inserts, still in their original wrapper. The straps are still present though are replacements.

Overall, a really nice military issue German WWII Gas mask which continued life after the war. Ready to add to your collection and display!