Rucksack, M34, Tornister, 1938, Named, Normandy

Genuine pre-WWII German cowhide rucksack M34 Tornister with natural hair. Intended for carrying personal impedimenta: the inside pocket of the flap held the cleaning utensils, a towel, a sewing kit and a shirt. The centre of the main compartment held the cooking pot with bread ration and cutlery inside it, the sides contained the ankle boots with the cleaning items inside them, some pairs of socks filling any gaps. Between the flap and the body of the rucksack could be placed work trousers and high boots if available. The Tornister was simplified as the war progressed and the cowhide cover was eliminated for economical and practical considerations.

This rucksack is in used condition without leather straps, dated 1938. A name has been handwritten at the back. 

The present artifact comes from a significant collection built up by a Norman collector in the last thirty years.