Policy and overview on equipment and field gear.
The same policy on authenticity as described in the uniform section applies to equipment and field gear and is intended to provide some guidance to members obtaining the correct items for their impression. Again, the emphasis should be to initially obtain mid to late war kit.
By the mid 1930s the Red Army was the largest army in the world and was just as well equipped as any other army of the day. At the outbreak of the Great Patriotic War in June 1941, the land forces approximately made up 85 % of the total manpower,of which 75% consisted of Rifle (Infantry) units, the VVS (Air Force) 11% and the VMF (Navy) 4%.
A total of 34 476 700 Soviet citizens from all the states of the USSR served in the armed forces during the course of the war years.
The first year of the war was disastrous for the Soviet Union, as by the end of December 1941 had resulted in the loss of over five million men killed, captured or missing, as well as vast amounts of weapons, equipment and materiel lost. Due to the rapid advances made by the Germans, most of the Soviet Unions industrial and manufacturing capacities in the west were over run or had to be transferred east to the Urals, so as to continue production. Therefore 1942 was an austere period for the Soviets and the quality and quantity of the soldiers equipment became quite rudimentary and basic. Also, there was an increased use of synthetic and replacement materials. Often as a consequence soldiers were infrequently issued with a full compliment of equipment and field gear. As the war progressed there was some improvement, particularly in Guards units, who generally tended to be better manned and equipped than other line Rifle units.
As seen in photographic archives of Red Army soldiers during the war, there was a vast array of appearances in both uniform and equipment. This was due to the fact that it was being manufactured in factories and workshops all across the Soviet Union and that local interpretation and materials available resulted in some variations on the same patterns of uniform and equipment being produced.
By the mid 1930s the Red Army was the largest army in the world and was just as well equipped as any other army of the day. At the outbreak of the Great Patriotic War in June 1941, the land forces approximately made up 85 % of the total manpower,of which 75% consisted of Rifle (Infantry) units, the VVS (Air Force) 11% and the VMF (Navy) 4%.
A total of 34 476 700 Soviet citizens from all the states of the USSR served in the armed forces during the course of the war years.
The first year of the war was disastrous for the Soviet Union, as by the end of December 1941 had resulted in the loss of over five million men killed, captured or missing, as well as vast amounts of weapons, equipment and materiel lost. Due to the rapid advances made by the Germans, most of the Soviet Unions industrial and manufacturing capacities in the west were over run or had to be transferred east to the Urals, so as to continue production. Therefore 1942 was an austere period for the Soviets and the quality and quantity of the soldiers equipment became quite rudimentary and basic. Also, there was an increased use of synthetic and replacement materials. Often as a consequence soldiers were infrequently issued with a full compliment of equipment and field gear. As the war progressed there was some improvement, particularly in Guards units, who generally tended to be better manned and equipped than other line Rifle units.
As seen in photographic archives of Red Army soldiers during the war, there was a vast array of appearances in both uniform and equipment. This was due to the fact that it was being manufactured in factories and workshops all across the Soviet Union and that local interpretation and materials available resulted in some variations on the same patterns of uniform and equipment being produced.
Obr 1936 field equipment.
At the outbreak of the war the Obr 1936 field equipment was still quite evident in the field. It was largely made from leather, ie the belt, pouches, straps etc. The rucksack "Ranyets Rioksak", which was similar in appearance to the German "Tornister", but made from canvas on a wooden frame,leather reinforced straps and with a green coloured synthetic leather outer flap. This pattern of equipment quickly disappeared from the field during the early months of the war.
Image. Soldiers on parade wearing Obr 1935 greatcoats,with the Obr 1936 pattern Kaska helmets and field equipment.The canvas strap for the gas mask bag is visible worn over the right shoulder. Although not fully discernable in the image, they appear to be armed with either AVS 36 or SVT 38 self loading rifles. This is evident by the apparent length of the bayonets and bayonet frogs seen being worn, which were somewhat longer than that of the later SVT 40 bayonet.
On the right is an officer, distinguished by the buttons on his greatcoat and gold coloured piping on the collar patch and is wearing the Obr 1932 officers pattern leather field belt equipment, from which the side arm and map case was suspended. Note, in a small pouch with lanyard is a whistle worn on the left shoulder, used to convey orders on the battlefield.
Image. Soldiers on parade wearing Obr 1935 greatcoats,with the Obr 1936 pattern Kaska helmets and field equipment.The canvas strap for the gas mask bag is visible worn over the right shoulder. Although not fully discernable in the image, they appear to be armed with either AVS 36 or SVT 38 self loading rifles. This is evident by the apparent length of the bayonets and bayonet frogs seen being worn, which were somewhat longer than that of the later SVT 40 bayonet.
On the right is an officer, distinguished by the buttons on his greatcoat and gold coloured piping on the collar patch and is wearing the Obr 1932 officers pattern leather field belt equipment, from which the side arm and map case was suspended. Note, in a small pouch with lanyard is a whistle worn on the left shoulder, used to convey orders on the battlefield.
Ranyets Rioksak Obr 1936 or rucksack. An original example of an EM's Obr 1936 rucksack.
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An excellent example of a modern day reproduction of an EM's Obr 1936 backpack.
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The Obr 1936 rucksack.
The loops on the outer flap were used to secure the mess tin in it's canvas cover to the pack. The shoulder straps attached
to the D rings on the ammunition pouches on the front of the wearers belt and the bottom corners of the pack by hooks.
There was also an officers version of the pack, distinguished by the lack of any loops on the outer flap.
The loops on the outer flap were used to secure the mess tin in it's canvas cover to the pack. The shoulder straps attached
to the D rings on the ammunition pouches on the front of the wearers belt and the bottom corners of the pack by hooks.
There was also an officers version of the pack, distinguished by the lack of any loops on the outer flap.
Obr 1938 field equipment.
In 1938 a new pattern of field equipment was authorised and was introduced the following year. There was an increase in the use of canvas and webbing material. The canvas back pack (Ranyets rioksak) had two external pockets with some leather reinforcing and straps and the back and shoulder straps were padded for comfort.
In 1941 a simplified all canvas version with only two leather pocket straps briefly appeared. The great coat could be carried "horse shoe" style over the top of the pack. A small bag for the cape/shelter poles, rope and pegs was strapped underneath the pack.
The water canteen in this image has the type of carrier with the long strap and worn over the left shoulder.
On the waist belt under the pack was carried a small canvas ration bag. The equipment worn on the belt was supported by webbing Y straps worn across the shoulders.
Shown below the right leather ammunition pouch in this image is a canvas pouch, which held an auxillary ammo supply of thirty rounds.
By early 1942 this pattern had all but disappeared from use in the field as it was too costly to manufacture under wartime production conditions.
In 1941 a simplified all canvas version with only two leather pocket straps briefly appeared. The great coat could be carried "horse shoe" style over the top of the pack. A small bag for the cape/shelter poles, rope and pegs was strapped underneath the pack.
The water canteen in this image has the type of carrier with the long strap and worn over the left shoulder.
On the waist belt under the pack was carried a small canvas ration bag. The equipment worn on the belt was supported by webbing Y straps worn across the shoulders.
Shown below the right leather ammunition pouch in this image is a canvas pouch, which held an auxillary ammo supply of thirty rounds.
By early 1942 this pattern had all but disappeared from use in the field as it was too costly to manufacture under wartime production conditions.
Ranyets rioksak Obr 1938.
View of the Obr 1938 rucksack.
The plasch palatka cape/shelter is rolled across the rucksack. When the greatcoat was not worn it was carried in the same fashion on the rucksack, either wrapped inside or with the plasch Palatka strapped on top of the coat. On the wearers left hip is a BN gas mask bag. Under the rucksack is the ration bag and on the right hip is the canteen worn over the entrenching shovel.
Each shoulder strap at the front was adjustable and had a hook on it, which attached to a D ring on to the ammunition pouches at the front of the wearers belt. The other ends of the shoulder straps were attached to the bottom corners of the pack, the left one with a D ring and the right one with a hook fitting. This was so that the wearer could put the pack on unassisted. An additional strap and hook on the bottom of the pack could be attached to the back of wearers waist belt, however it was commonly removed by the soldiers in the field. A small pouch, which held the tent/shelter poles, pegs and rope could be attached to the bottom of the pack by straps.
The plasch palatka cape/shelter is rolled across the rucksack. When the greatcoat was not worn it was carried in the same fashion on the rucksack, either wrapped inside or with the plasch Palatka strapped on top of the coat. On the wearers left hip is a BN gas mask bag. Under the rucksack is the ration bag and on the right hip is the canteen worn over the entrenching shovel.
Each shoulder strap at the front was adjustable and had a hook on it, which attached to a D ring on to the ammunition pouches at the front of the wearers belt. The other ends of the shoulder straps were attached to the bottom corners of the pack, the left one with a D ring and the right one with a hook fitting. This was so that the wearer could put the pack on unassisted. An additional strap and hook on the bottom of the pack could be attached to the back of wearers waist belt, however it was commonly removed by the soldiers in the field. A small pouch, which held the tent/shelter poles, pegs and rope could be attached to the bottom of the pack by straps.
Obr 1938 rucksack.The external pouches contained the soldiers weapon cleaning kit and personal hygene items. Internally, spare foot wraps,underwear, clothing, mess tin and field rations were stored. Detachable straps were used to secure the greatcoat or rain cape to the outside of the pack.
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Another view of Obr 1938 rucksack, showing the padded shoulder straps and back padding. The hook to secure the pack to the wearers belt is visible at the bottom of the pack. This was often removed by soldiers in the field.
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Obr 1938 field gear. Early war.
Obr 1938 field equipment. Top: Obr 1936 kaska(helmet), Obr 1938 rioksak, plashch palatka, tent poles, rope and pegs in small pouch attached to bottom of rioksak. Bottom: L to R, BN gas mask bag, leather belt, web 'Y 'straps, Obr 1937 leather ammo pouch, bayonet & frog, RGD 33 grenade pouch, ration bag, water canteen, infantry shovel, leather ammo pouch and canvas reserve ammo pouch. Note: The anti-gas cape and salopettes would have been strapped to the top of the rioksak on top of the rain cape. Also, the bayonet frog was not a common issue item. It was usual for the bayonet to be permanently attached to the rifle. Note; due to losses of materiel and some reduction in manufacturing during late 1941 early 1942, not all the above items would have been issued to troops, who had to make do with whatever was available at that time.
Ranyets rioksak Obr 1941.
Obr 1941 rucksack. Is very similar to the Obr 1938 version, except the leather work is further reduced. The securing straps for attaching the greatcoat or rain cape/tent shelter were permanently fixed to the pack. The small pouch strapped to the bottom of the pack contains the tent poles, pegs and rope.
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Another view of the Obr 1941 pack showing the back padding and straps. It was in use for a very short time as it was too expensive to produce under wartime conditions.
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As the war progressed the equipment became simplified and easier to manufacture, often incorporating replacement and sometimes synthetic materials.
Veschevoi myeshok or simple back pack.
The origins of the vesh-meshok date back to the late 1860's which was later re-introduced in 1923 with the Red Army. It was originally referred to as the "Turkestan" or "Sidor" bag. It was a simple canvas sack like bag with a draw string at the top, with a canvas strap attached to the bottom of each corner. The strap could be looped around the neck of the bag to form the shoulder straps. A chest strap was fitted with either an adjustable buckle, wooden toggle or tie string arrangement.
Earlier patterns had a toggle attachment so that one end of the strap could be attached/detached to bottom of the pack. The myeshok introduced in 1941 had both ends of the shoulder strap sewn to the bottom of the pack.
(Go to the More section above, Misc. pages on how to tie the pack)
Earlier patterns had a toggle attachment so that one end of the strap could be attached/detached to bottom of the pack. The myeshok introduced in 1941 had both ends of the shoulder strap sewn to the bottom of the pack.
(Go to the More section above, Misc. pages on how to tie the pack)
Podsoomoki dlya patronii or ammo pouches.
Ammo pouches for the Mosin Nagant rifle. Top: Pre and early war Obr 37 leather pouches. Bottom: Post war synthetic "Rexine" pouch, which is not suitable for war time period. Each compartment could hold 15 rounds in clips or about 20 loose rounds. |
German post war reparation pouches are a good alternative to original Soviet pouches.
 A canvas economy ammo pouch. It was issued in lieu of leather pouch. |
Podsoomoki dlya pistolyet pulyomyeta, CBT, granata ee patronii.
Pouches for submachine guns, SVT rifle, hand grenades and ammunition.
A selection of pouches for use with the PPSh or PPS submachine guns, including the 71 round drum and 35 round curved magazines. The 35 round curved magazines for the PPSh & PPS were not interchangable.
From Top left: 35 round pouch, PPS and PPSh magazines, 35 round pouch with small pouch attached for the magazine loader.
Bottom: PPSh drum magazine pouches. The centre one is an early war type which has a web loop on the back for the Y strap to attach through.
Below: a magazine pouch for the SVT 40 self loading rifle. The pouch held two magazines. An economy canvas pouch was also produced.
 SVT magazine pouch |
 Economy canvas SVT pouch. |
Below: An ecomony made ammunition bandolier which was worn over a shoulder and across the chest. It could hold 70 rounds in clips of the standard 7.62 x 54 R ammunition. A canvas auxiliary pouch was worn on the waist belt below the right ammo pouch and was for spare ammunition , ie up to 30 rounds in clips or about 40 in loose rounds.
 Economy made ammunition bandolier. When issued, the 7.63mm ammunition may have come in cardboard boxes containing three clips of 5 rounds each or 15 loose rounds in a paper packet. Both the boxes and packets were tied with string. |
 Auxillary ammo pouch.It could hold up to 30 rounds in clips or paper packets. The fastening loop could be made of cloth or string. |
A paper packet of 15 loose rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
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7.62mm clipped ammunition in 15 round cardboard boxes.The boxes could fit inside the standard Mosin ammo pouches
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Below:
Right is a pouch for the F1 grenade. Wartime pouches held three grenades and were initially issued for use with tank and AFV personnel/crews and were later seen being worn in the field by infantry troops.
Left is a pouch for the RGD 33 stick grenade. It held two grenades and there is a small internal pocket to hold fuses. In practice it was used to carry F1 grenades also. In use was a simplified economy RGD 33 pouch using less material and did not have the outer flap cover. The two inverted grenade heads were held in smaller individual tubular pockets and the uppermost handles were secured in place with two tie tapes.
Right is a pouch for the F1 grenade. Wartime pouches held three grenades and were initially issued for use with tank and AFV personnel/crews and were later seen being worn in the field by infantry troops.
Left is a pouch for the RGD 33 stick grenade. It held two grenades and there is a small internal pocket to hold fuses. In practice it was used to carry F1 grenades also. In use was a simplified economy RGD 33 pouch using less material and did not have the outer flap cover. The two inverted grenade heads were held in smaller individual tubular pockets and the uppermost handles were secured in place with two tie tapes.
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Flyaga or water canteen.
War time canteens are clearly distinguishable from late post war variants. War time examples were unpainted aluminium, ovate in shape (longitude egg shaped in appearance). The screw top threading grooves appeared finer and had milling around the top edge and was connected to the canteen bottle by a small metal chain.
Early post war examples were very similar in appearance, whereas 1970's onwards aluminium examples appear more of a lozenge shape and were generally painted olive green.The screw tops are also more rounded and the threading grooves are thicker in appearance, which was also connected to the canteen bottle with a small metal chain. The capacity of the standard canteen was 750ml and field medics carried a larger 1 litre capacity canteen, usually in canvas carrier with a long strap which was worn over the shoulder.
Canteens were worn in a canvas condensation carrier, which was attached to the waist belt and near the entrenching tool on the right hip. In an effort to reduce the use of aluminium, which was essential to other wartime manufacture, ie aircraft production, a glass canteen was also produced.
Some pre and early war time canteen carriers (chekhlom) were also evident, ie one which looked similar in appearance to the German canteen carrier and another type had long straps so it could be worn over the shoulder. See below. Original wartime canteens can be expensive at between £50-£90 depending on condition. Post war East German war reparation patterns are the best substitute and are more accurate than late post war Soviet examples.
Early post war examples were very similar in appearance, whereas 1970's onwards aluminium examples appear more of a lozenge shape and were generally painted olive green.The screw tops are also more rounded and the threading grooves are thicker in appearance, which was also connected to the canteen bottle with a small metal chain. The capacity of the standard canteen was 750ml and field medics carried a larger 1 litre capacity canteen, usually in canvas carrier with a long strap which was worn over the shoulder.
Canteens were worn in a canvas condensation carrier, which was attached to the waist belt and near the entrenching tool on the right hip. In an effort to reduce the use of aluminium, which was essential to other wartime manufacture, ie aircraft production, a glass canteen was also produced.
Some pre and early war time canteen carriers (chekhlom) were also evident, ie one which looked similar in appearance to the German canteen carrier and another type had long straps so it could be worn over the shoulder. See below. Original wartime canteens can be expensive at between £50-£90 depending on condition. Post war East German war reparation patterns are the best substitute and are more accurate than late post war Soviet examples.
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Malaya Pekhotnaya Lopata-50 or Small Infantry Shovel-50.
Left: Prewar square blade shovel. Right: late war shovel, both with canvas carriers.
The MPL-50 original shovel was of Danish design in 1869 and adopted by the Russian Imperial Army in 1870 and followed by other European armies and changed little in appearance throughout its respective use in the armies of Imperial Russia and the Soviet Union.
Pre and early war infantry entrenching shovels were manufactured in three metal pieces and were riveted together and were similar in appearance to the German shovel.The blade mount has 5 rivets, the handle fitted in a socket mount of 9.5cm (3.75 in) and is secured by 1 rivet and metal collar ring. They came in both pentagonal pointed and square blade ends. Later pattern wartime shovels were crudely manufactured and made from two metal pieces welded together and were made with a pointed blade only. The handle was mounted in a socket of 9.5cm (3.75 in) and was secured by a single rivet.
Both types had wooden unpainted roughened handles, which were fire singed which created a non slip surface in the hand and protruded 23cm (9 in) out of the socket. The total length of the shovel was 50 cm (20 in),the steel blade is 15 cm (5.9 in) wide and 18 cm (7.1 in) long and it is sharpened on its working edge. As well as for entrenching it had a number of uses i.e. it was often sharpened on one side for use as an axe or the flat of the blade as a hammer or as a work surface, it could serve as an oar for use with improvised rafts, as a frying pan for cooking food over a fire and as a means of measuring, as its length and width are standardized sizes and also as a close quarter fighting weapon!
The pre and early war carriers were made in leather, similar in appearance to the German pattern, for both square and pentagonal shovels. Later carriers were made from canvas with either buckle, button or toggle fasteners, as above images. Economy examples further reduced materials used to manufacture and even a combined shovel carrier and grenade pouch configuration was produced, which could hold two RGD 33 or four F1 grenades.The shovel was worn on the belt on the right hip. A folding handle designed shovel was never approved or adopted by the Soviets during the war as was by the German and by US armies for example.
Pre and early war infantry entrenching shovels were manufactured in three metal pieces and were riveted together and were similar in appearance to the German shovel.The blade mount has 5 rivets, the handle fitted in a socket mount of 9.5cm (3.75 in) and is secured by 1 rivet and metal collar ring. They came in both pentagonal pointed and square blade ends. Later pattern wartime shovels were crudely manufactured and made from two metal pieces welded together and were made with a pointed blade only. The handle was mounted in a socket of 9.5cm (3.75 in) and was secured by a single rivet.
Both types had wooden unpainted roughened handles, which were fire singed which created a non slip surface in the hand and protruded 23cm (9 in) out of the socket. The total length of the shovel was 50 cm (20 in),the steel blade is 15 cm (5.9 in) wide and 18 cm (7.1 in) long and it is sharpened on its working edge. As well as for entrenching it had a number of uses i.e. it was often sharpened on one side for use as an axe or the flat of the blade as a hammer or as a work surface, it could serve as an oar for use with improvised rafts, as a frying pan for cooking food over a fire and as a means of measuring, as its length and width are standardized sizes and also as a close quarter fighting weapon!
The pre and early war carriers were made in leather, similar in appearance to the German pattern, for both square and pentagonal shovels. Later carriers were made from canvas with either buckle, button or toggle fasteners, as above images. Economy examples further reduced materials used to manufacture and even a combined shovel carrier and grenade pouch configuration was produced, which could hold two RGD 33 or four F1 grenades.The shovel was worn on the belt on the right hip. A folding handle designed shovel was never approved or adopted by the Soviets during the war as was by the German and by US armies for example.
Prewar pentagonal pointed shovel.
Wartime pentagonal pointed shovel
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1941 combined shovel and RGD 33 grenade pouch carrier.
Above L-R. A pair of pre war leather carriers for both pentagonal and square shovels. A late war variant canvas economy carrier for a pentagonal shovel.Note: material is kept to the minimum, sufficient to cover only half the shovel blade, which combines both the belt loops and shovel handle securing straps and is held by a single metal button. Image of a Soviet soldier wearing a combined shovel and RGD 33 grenade pouch carrier, which was introduced in 1941 intending to reduce the number of pouches worn on the waist belt. Note the handle of a RGD 33 grenade protruding from the top of the carrier.
These variants appeared to have been less frequently issued.
Soomki dlya protivogaznaya or gas mask bag.
There were a number of patterns of gas masks,filters and accompanying bags in use by the RKKA and in general there were three types of gas mask filters in use during the course of the war.
The T-4 filter, which replaced the earlier T-5 model, was in use from the mid 1930's with the the Mod 0-8 mask during the opening months of the war. Due to losses of men and equipment during that period it was not commonly seen after 1941.
The MT-4 filter was in use from 1938 up to 1944 and was the standard issue for the RKKA during the 1941-43 period and was used with both the Mod O-8 and ShM-1 masks.
The MO-2 filter was produced from 1943 until the mid 1950's and was slightly smaller and lighter than the other filters. During the war it was used with the ShM-1 mask.
Also seen during the very early war period was the M1928 gas mask bag, which was smaller in size to the other bags and was similar in appearance to the British SBR WW1 gas mask bag i.e. the bag closing flap had the corners cut off and was closed with two brass press studs.
The bag distinguished by its two small external pouches on the sides M1936, which held the individual decontamination kit and demisting wax, was associated with the pre and early war T-5 and T-4/Mod 0-8 variants and was the largest of the wartime issue bags. It is often referred by the post war misnomer of the BN gas mask bag. Bags for the MT-4 and MO-2 filters and ShM-1 masks, the M1940 variants were without any external side pouches.
Internally, the bags were generally divided into three distinctive smaller compartments in which to store the various components i.e. mask, hose, filter and also a small pocket for spare mask lens and demisting wax. In the bottom of the compartment for the filter, a metal concertina coil spring was fixed to prevent fouling of the filter intake when in use inside the bag.The original issue patterns for these gas masks bags were of good construction and quality. During 1942 simplified economy gas mask bags were introduced and were made from various inferior materials, fastenings, buttons,toggles and wooden blocks replacing the internal metal spring etc and gradually replaced stocks of previous issues.
During the war gas masks were largely withdrawn from service or discarded and the bags were used to carry personal items, ammo or rations etc. For this reason the gas masks are not covered here in the equipment section. The bag was worn over the right shoulder and hung on the left hip.
Note: The often used terms BN and BS gas masks are not a reference of the model/type of filter or the mask it was used with, but define whether the variant was obsolete and not on issue(BN) or was in current issue(BS)with the RKKA and again is a post war misnomer. Also, there were other specialist filters in use issued to tank and air crews respectively.
The T-4 filter, which replaced the earlier T-5 model, was in use from the mid 1930's with the the Mod 0-8 mask during the opening months of the war. Due to losses of men and equipment during that period it was not commonly seen after 1941.
The MT-4 filter was in use from 1938 up to 1944 and was the standard issue for the RKKA during the 1941-43 period and was used with both the Mod O-8 and ShM-1 masks.
The MO-2 filter was produced from 1943 until the mid 1950's and was slightly smaller and lighter than the other filters. During the war it was used with the ShM-1 mask.
Also seen during the very early war period was the M1928 gas mask bag, which was smaller in size to the other bags and was similar in appearance to the British SBR WW1 gas mask bag i.e. the bag closing flap had the corners cut off and was closed with two brass press studs.
The bag distinguished by its two small external pouches on the sides M1936, which held the individual decontamination kit and demisting wax, was associated with the pre and early war T-5 and T-4/Mod 0-8 variants and was the largest of the wartime issue bags. It is often referred by the post war misnomer of the BN gas mask bag. Bags for the MT-4 and MO-2 filters and ShM-1 masks, the M1940 variants were without any external side pouches.
Internally, the bags were generally divided into three distinctive smaller compartments in which to store the various components i.e. mask, hose, filter and also a small pocket for spare mask lens and demisting wax. In the bottom of the compartment for the filter, a metal concertina coil spring was fixed to prevent fouling of the filter intake when in use inside the bag.The original issue patterns for these gas masks bags were of good construction and quality. During 1942 simplified economy gas mask bags were introduced and were made from various inferior materials, fastenings, buttons,toggles and wooden blocks replacing the internal metal spring etc and gradually replaced stocks of previous issues.
During the war gas masks were largely withdrawn from service or discarded and the bags were used to carry personal items, ammo or rations etc. For this reason the gas masks are not covered here in the equipment section. The bag was worn over the right shoulder and hung on the left hip.
Note: The often used terms BN and BS gas masks are not a reference of the model/type of filter or the mask it was used with, but define whether the variant was obsolete and not on issue(BN) or was in current issue(BS)with the RKKA and again is a post war misnomer. Also, there were other specialist filters in use issued to tank and air crews respectively.
Plashch palatka or rain cape/shelter.
Cape, rope, poles, stakes and 1938 manual
An important and versatile item of equipment, which offered rudimentary protection from the elements to the Red Army soldier.
It was a square in shape, measuring some 180x180 cm and made from a canvas water proof duck material with draw strings incorporated into one corner. The strings could be used to tie the cape across the shoulders and also to form a hood. Small toggles and holes along the front edges were used to fasten the cape up and an arm vent was incorporated into the right front. Each corner also had a leather grommet.
When issued, the cape came with a 4.5 metre length of rope, two 37 cm long tapered inter connectable metal reinforced wooden tent poles, one wooden and one metal stake, and when combined with other capes it could be made into a basic 2, 4 or 6 man tent shelter. 12 capes could be combined to form a square shaped shelter to accommodate a section of soldiers. Due to wear and loss the tents were more than often erected using sticks and branches cut in situ locally.
Late post war capes can be identified by the use of brass grommets, metal dished buttons instead of wooden toggles and with two small straps sewn onto one corner, used to attach cape to the modern backpack. With a little effort post war capes can be converted to look like a wartime one. When not being worn the capes were often carried rolled "horse shoe" fashion over the left shoulder.
It was a square in shape, measuring some 180x180 cm and made from a canvas water proof duck material with draw strings incorporated into one corner. The strings could be used to tie the cape across the shoulders and also to form a hood. Small toggles and holes along the front edges were used to fasten the cape up and an arm vent was incorporated into the right front. Each corner also had a leather grommet.
When issued, the cape came with a 4.5 metre length of rope, two 37 cm long tapered inter connectable metal reinforced wooden tent poles, one wooden and one metal stake, and when combined with other capes it could be made into a basic 2, 4 or 6 man tent shelter. 12 capes could be combined to form a square shaped shelter to accommodate a section of soldiers. Due to wear and loss the tents were more than often erected using sticks and branches cut in situ locally.
Late post war capes can be identified by the use of brass grommets, metal dished buttons instead of wooden toggles and with two small straps sewn onto one corner, used to attach cape to the modern backpack. With a little effort post war capes can be converted to look like a wartime one. When not being worn the capes were often carried rolled "horse shoe" fashion over the left shoulder.
Below is an extract from the 1938 instruction manual, showing images of the combination of the plashch palatkas to make a variety of shelters and it being worn as a simple rain cape.
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FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE PLASHCH PALATKA IS INCLUDED IN THE MISCELLANEOUS SECTION.
Basic mid to late war belt equipment.
This image shows the basic layout for the rifleman's belt equipment mid to late war period i.e. an EM pattern leather belt, two pairs of ammo pouches, a grenade pouch, a water canteen, economy made gas mask bag, shovel, rain cape, simple backpack, mess tin and Obr 1940 steel helmet.
​Due to losses and shortages of equipment during the war not all equipment would have been available to all troops, who had to make do with whatever was available. However, Guards rifle units tended to be better supplied and equipped than standard rifle units during the war.
These are the items which new members should acquire for the initial field gear impression.
Shinel or greatcoat.
Obr 1941 pattern greatcoat.
During the war period two patterns of the шинель, Shinel the Russian word for military greatcoat, would have been encountered, namely the Obr 1935 and Obr 1941.
Obr 1935 patterns appeared to be a lighter coloured beige/greyish material and the cuff turn ups were pointed at the top at the back of the cuff and the collar appeared larger.The collar could be turned up and the sleeve cuffs could be turned down in inclement weather. They are considered a better quality than Obr 1941 pattern. Inside the left cuff was a concealed pocket for a field dressing, which was not present on the Obr 1941 coat.
The Obr 1941 pattern were made of a brownish mixed wool material and appeared of a somewhat rough and shoddy appearance. The following features were common to both pattern greatcoats i.e a four "hook and eyelet" fastening down the front right side of the coat, a large collar which could be turned up in cold weather conditions,a half belt
(hylastic) held with two 22mm buttons on the small of the back, a vent in the rear coat skirt and with a vertical pocket slit was on each coat hip. The Obr 1941 coat had
horizontal cut false turn ups on the sleeve cuffs which could not be folded down. The rear of the waist belt was to be worn above the half belt. Often when issued, the soldier was required to cut the bottom edge to a length appropriate to the wearers height.
The rank and branch insignia were worn on the collar gorget patches on the Obr 1935 and Obr 1941 coats. When the Obr 1943 pattern rank and branch insignia was introduced, a cloth loop and button was worn on each shoulder where the pogonii were attached to the greatcoat. Also, pitlitsii collar patches in branch of service colours with a single 22mm button was attached on each collar point.The shoulder boards were afixed using 18mm buttons.
Officers coats were of a better quality and finish and were distinguished from EM patterns by the buttons on the coat front. The Obr 1935 pattern had two rows of four buttons, horizontal hip pockets with flap covers and pointed cuff turn ups. The Obr 1941 pattern had two rows of five buttons down the front, horizontal pockets at the hips with flap covers and horizontal cut turn ups on the sleeve cuffs.
When not worn they were carried over the left shoulder, often wrapped inside the cape for protection in a bedroll fashion and was known as a "Skatka". Not just a winter item, greatcoats were carried all year round and were used in conjunction with the rain cape, whereby the soldier would use it as a blanket for sleeping in, as blankets were not issued for field use.
SEE MISCELLANEOUS SECTION ON HOW TO ROLL A GREATCOAT "SKATKA" .
Obr 1935 patterns appeared to be a lighter coloured beige/greyish material and the cuff turn ups were pointed at the top at the back of the cuff and the collar appeared larger.The collar could be turned up and the sleeve cuffs could be turned down in inclement weather. They are considered a better quality than Obr 1941 pattern. Inside the left cuff was a concealed pocket for a field dressing, which was not present on the Obr 1941 coat.
The Obr 1941 pattern were made of a brownish mixed wool material and appeared of a somewhat rough and shoddy appearance. The following features were common to both pattern greatcoats i.e a four "hook and eyelet" fastening down the front right side of the coat, a large collar which could be turned up in cold weather conditions,a half belt
(hylastic) held with two 22mm buttons on the small of the back, a vent in the rear coat skirt and with a vertical pocket slit was on each coat hip. The Obr 1941 coat had
horizontal cut false turn ups on the sleeve cuffs which could not be folded down. The rear of the waist belt was to be worn above the half belt. Often when issued, the soldier was required to cut the bottom edge to a length appropriate to the wearers height.
The rank and branch insignia were worn on the collar gorget patches on the Obr 1935 and Obr 1941 coats. When the Obr 1943 pattern rank and branch insignia was introduced, a cloth loop and button was worn on each shoulder where the pogonii were attached to the greatcoat. Also, pitlitsii collar patches in branch of service colours with a single 22mm button was attached on each collar point.The shoulder boards were afixed using 18mm buttons.
Officers coats were of a better quality and finish and were distinguished from EM patterns by the buttons on the coat front. The Obr 1935 pattern had two rows of four buttons, horizontal hip pockets with flap covers and pointed cuff turn ups. The Obr 1941 pattern had two rows of five buttons down the front, horizontal pockets at the hips with flap covers and horizontal cut turn ups on the sleeve cuffs.
When not worn they were carried over the left shoulder, often wrapped inside the cape for protection in a bedroll fashion and was known as a "Skatka". Not just a winter item, greatcoats were carried all year round and were used in conjunction with the rain cape, whereby the soldier would use it as a blanket for sleeping in, as blankets were not issued for field use.
SEE MISCELLANEOUS SECTION ON HOW TO ROLL A GREATCOAT "SKATKA" .
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 Post war "Brezhnevka" greatcoat showing period stitched on collar tabs and shoulder boards.
There are a number of reputable sources that supply good quality reproduction Obr 1935 and Obr 1941 greatcoats. Refer to our recommended suppliers page for further information. However, they tend to be quite expensive and may be prohibitive to those on a restricted budget. An option would be to obtain a post war coat made between mid 1960's and early 1980's, often referred to as "Brezhnevka's". Post war coats are cut slightly different from wartime patterns. However, with some basic adjustment they can be converted to be a close resemblance to a Obr 1941 coat worn with Obr 1943 shoulder boards.
Generally, "Brezhnevka's" have stitched on green/khaki drab shoulder boards and collar tabs which have to be carefully removed. Some later coats may also have a row of five buttons on the front. These are decorative only without any actual button holes and can be carefully removed. Retain the the shoulder boards and collar tabs for future use. You will require in the appropriate branch of service colours for your impression, a pair of Obr 1943 pitlitsii collar tabs each with a period green painted 22mm flat backed button together with a pair of pogonii shoulder boards each with a period 18mm button, either brass or green painted. To attach the collar tabs. It will necessary to make a small incision along the front seam of each collar point, roughly along where the narrow bottom edge of the green tabs corresponded. Open out the seam and tuck in the unfinished end of the Obr 1943 tab. Before stitching in place ensure when folded flat that each tab is per the above image i.e. the button at the top, the longer edge of the tab is uppermost and the shorter edge is lowermost which follows the upper edge of the collar edge stitching. Hand stitch the tab into the seam and fold the tab on the collar as described, and stitch on either by hand or machine. To attach the pogonii. Use the material from the removed post war shoulder boards to make loops for the Obr 1943 boards. Cut a length of the material approx 6-7cm long and 5.5 cm wide. Fold the long side over so the material is 6-7 cm and 2.75 cm wide.Stitch along the cut long end and turn it inside out to form a tube and then iron flat. When attaching to the coat, turn each short end over 1-1.5 cm and stitch on, leaving approx a 4 cm loop. Note: the loop and the 18mm button should be placed just in front of the shoulder seam and that the loop is close to the top of the sleeve seam, so that when attached the end of the shoulder board is even with the sleeve seam, similar to that on the gimnastiorka. To convert the half belt and rear skirt vent. Post war coats have 22mm white metal "staybrite" buttons, which need to be replaced with period 22mm brass or painted green ones. The three 14mm white metal "staybrite" buttons on the rear skirt vent are a post war addition and were not evident on wartime coats and therefore they need to be removed altogether. Note: Retain the removed green collar tabs as they can be adapted for use on Obr 1935 gimnastiorka tunics as Obr 1941 subdued pitlitsii collar tabs, which were usually machine stitched on. Kotelok or mess tin.
Two patterns of mess tins were generally in use during the course of the war.
Right: The Obr 1936 type was similar in appearance to the German mess tin i.e, a two piece kidney shaped aluminium container with lid and a pail handle. Left: The Obr 1926 type was a simple cook pot, 12 cm tall and 16 cm wide with a pail handle. It was made both in aluminium and in steel. Generally in the field enlisted men did not possess a full set of cutlery, utilizing a spoon only. The spoon (lojkha) was often seen tucked into the top of the soldiers boot or puttees. An aluminium or enamelled metal drinking mug (kroozhka) would have been in use. The enamelled mugs were seen in various colours, including white, green, light blue and yellow enamel. A cloth drawstring bag to store the mess tin was issued with pre-war and early war period field equipment and became less evident thereafter as the war progressed. |
Personal hygiene.
Clockwise from top left: safety razor, shaving brush and enamel cups, soap and soap dish, mirror, handkerchief, spare collar liner, comb, tooth powder and brush and a towel.
Neezhnye byelye or underwear.
A 1935 pattern summer undershirt, black undershorts and portyanki footwraps.
In summer a light cotton undershirt was worn.
In winter a warm cotton flannel version of the undershirt was issued together with "long john" under trousers and was
known as Bumazeynogo neezhnyego byelye.
It was also common for soldiers to wear civilian clothing under the uniform, particulary during the winter.
The enlisted man received the following issue of underwear per annum:
Undershirts - summer x 2, winter warm x1.
Undershorts - summer x 3, winter warm x1.
Portyanki - summer x 3, winter warm x2.
The underwear was supposedly exchanged every ten days for a clean set. Invariably, the soldier often got someone else's
underwear back from the laundry!
In summer the portyanki footwraps were made of linen material and in winter made from warm cotton flannel and wool mix material.
In winter a warm cotton flannel version of the undershirt was issued together with "long john" under trousers and was
known as Bumazeynogo neezhnyego byelye.
It was also common for soldiers to wear civilian clothing under the uniform, particulary during the winter.
The enlisted man received the following issue of underwear per annum:
Undershirts - summer x 2, winter warm x1.
Undershorts - summer x 3, winter warm x1.
Portyanki - summer x 3, winter warm x2.
The underwear was supposedly exchanged every ten days for a clean set. Invariably, the soldier often got someone else's
underwear back from the laundry!
In summer the portyanki footwraps were made of linen material and in winter made from warm cotton flannel and wool mix material.
Personal items.
Clockwise from top left: Tobacco pouch,cigarette papers and "Makhorka" cigarettes, playing cards, torch, "Belomorkanal" papierossi cigarettes, small pouch containing sunflower seeds, trouser belt, pocket knife, field postcard, Army book, Bakelite tube with paper roll with ID details, personal letter and photos, wallet, State Bank currency notes and coins, notebook and pencil.
THIS CONCLUDES THE GUIDANCE SECTIONS ON THE BASIC UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT PAGES. ITEMS SUCH AS WINTER UNIFORMS AND CAMOUFLAGE CLOTHING, TOGETHER WITH OTHER ARTICLES OF INTEREST HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THE MISCELLANEOUS SECTION, UNDER THE "MORE" HEADER AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE.