Original U.S. WWII Navy M1926 D-Day Inflatable Floatation Belt Life Preserver in Original Box
In stock
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Original Item: Only One Available. The M1926 inflatable flotation belt was used as a life preserver by assault troops during amphibious actions and beach landings. The belt was inflated by squeezing two switches located inside the belt, which activated two CO2 bottles. If the CO2 bottles failed, the belt could still be inflated by blowing into the rubber tubes, which have valves on the ends. This example comes in its original box, which measures 18 x 5 x 2½”.
This type of belt is particularly known for use during the D-Day landing on the Normandy beaches on June 6th, 1944.
The metal buckle surrounding the CO2 containers shows a USN marking, and is maker marked SODA KING. The instructions are stamped on the canvas, close to the CO2 slots and indicate: "To inflate squeeze arrows together with a hard quick grip and release".
Condition is very good, and we do not see any repairs or major issues from the exterior. The rubber is still quite supple though we did not test its ability to hold air. The C02 containers are not loaded with any spent cartridges.
The belt measures approximately 55" long and 4.5" wide uninflated. Offered in good condition, this is a solid used example of a hard to find Life Preserver in its original box, one made before the D-Day invasion that made them so famous.
Ready for further research and display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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