Original Item. Only One Available. This is an exceptionally scarce original Japanese WWII canvas carrying case for the Type 89 grenade discharger, commonly known among collectors as the “knee mortar.” Complete cases are considerably less common than the dischargers themselves, making this a useful accessory for restoring or completing a Type 89 display.

The canvas carry case is extremely combat-worn, with the end of the accompanying strap missing some of its rubberized canvas that would have gone under the baseplate. The bottom canvas cap piece appears to have been stitched back on at one point. The tightening leather strap at the open end is intact with its buckle.

The other end of the carry strap is still intact with its rubberized canvas strap still buckled. The other side being broken off is the worst of the damage, though the entire case has some very heavy wear, staining, and weakness.

Despite the extensive wear, the case remains substantially intact and retains enough of its original construction to fit alongside a Type 89 grenade discharger for display.

The Type 89 grenade discharger was adopted by the Imperial Japanese Army as a compact, portable infantry support weapon capable of launching specially designed grenades and other compatible projectiles. Its curved baseplate led Allied troops to apply the misleading nickname “knee mortar,” although the weapon was intended to be fired with its baseplate supported against the ground or another firm surface.

Canvas carrying cases allowed the discharger to be transported while helping protect its tube, trigger mechanism, and baseplate. The attached strap could be adjusted for carrying and secured around the lower portion of the weapon.

The heavy wear, field repairs, missing strap section, and weakened canvas show that this example saw considerable use or prolonged storage under poor conditions. Its retained leather closure, buckles, lower cap, and surviving rubberized strap section nevertheless preserve the principal features of an original Type 89 carrying case. These are impossible to find in any condition, so don’t miss out on this one.