Item Description
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 wonderful accessories including spare lenses, a cleaning cloth, and internal retaining spring. 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 1939 under the right side gasket with a multitude of other numbers. It is stamped with D in a triangle under the top gasket, which most likely represents Draeger, a known maker of masks. 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 green, and are the correct early issue non-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 non-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 39 in a circle, with an H in a Triangle 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 fcc for Nier, Hermann, Metallwarenfabrik, Beierfeld in Sachsen, and also has a 1942 date on the side, as well as on the top. The Waffenamt inspection mark on the top looks to read WaA 739.
Condition of the mask is very good to excellent, with great rubber and all parts intact. The 1940 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, as well as both the Reinigungslappen (Cleaning Rag) and Lappenhalter (Rag Holder) spring, something we rarely see! The can is in very good original condition, and does not look to have had any repainting. The spare lens compartment has a maker mark and is dated 39 along with an inspection stamp. It also has an original label named to the officer it was issued to:
Leutnant Günther
Christian
Landesschützen Bataillon
Nr. 84o / 4. Kompagnie
Marktredwit[z]
This looks to be a local defense unit, and we found the following website with information on this unit, translated below: Landesschützen-Bataillon 840
The Landesschützen Battalion 840 was set up on June 1, 1940 in military district XIII. The battalion was formed into 6 companies to guard prisoners of war. After the formation, the battalion of the division z.b.V. 413 subordinated. It was stationed in Marktredtwitz, also in Military District XIII. It was used by the commander of prisoners of war XIII. On May 22, 1941, the battalion gave up the 6th company to set up the Landesschützen Battalion 842 and was divided into only 5 companies. On July 21, 1941, the battalion then handed over its 4th company as the 4th company to the Landesschützen-Bataillon 828. The 5th company was renamed the 4th company and the battalion was divided into only 4 companies.
The Landesschützen-Ersatz-Bataillon 13 was responsible for providing the battalion with a replacement.
The spare lens insert compartment still has the original retaining spring, and contains two pairs of original 1940 dated 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!
- This product is available for international shipping. Shipping not available to: Australia, France, or Germany
- Due to legal restrictions this item cannot be shipped to Australia, France or Germany. This is not a comprehensive list and other countries may be added in the future.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon