Original Item: Only One Available. We've had a few keyboard warrior "experts" post on collectors forums that they think this bandolier is fake. However, please refer to the book “Luftwaffe Uniforms and Insignia Volume 2” by Karl Ries Jr. where an almost identical example can be found.

This is a great late war example of the standard ammunition bandolier issued to German Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger Paratroopers during WWII. As they were often dropped behind enemy lines and far from the supply chain, they were provided with these bandoliers, which have 6 pockets on each side. Some of these pockets are double layered, so the bandolier fully loaded would carry 20 stripper clips of 5 rounds each for the Mauser K98k rifle. The bandolier has some attachment straps on the back to integrate with the standard combat rigging.

This set is a fantastic late war “depot scrap” example made from pieces of several different colored bandoliers, including tan, blue, brown, and orangeish. The snaps are all PRYM marked with heavy wear. This was a known supplier of Luftwaffe snaps during the war. The bandolier measures approximately 51 ½  inches when fully extended, so it was probably for a smaller size individual. It is marked on the rear of one side with:

R.B.Nr. 
0/0050/0189

Condition is very good, with very wear, just some discoloration of the fabric due to age and light exposure. There is however some oxidation on the zinc plating of the snaps, resulting in "white rust" in areas, so they should be opened with care. One of the snaps is broken off of the bandolier and others are very weak, so handle with care. The bandolier does not look to have been issued, so all of the wear is from age and storage. A great chance to pick up a seldom seen accessory from WWII!