Rare Original British Army 1937 Pattern MK1 Basic Pouch

A scarce original British made MK1 1937 Pattern Universal Pouch dating from the very early part of the Second World War. 

This MK 1 example is the first pattern of pouch produced as part of the 1937 pattern webbing set. It came into issue in 1938 before being replaced by the MKII variant in the summer of 1940, following the evacuation from Dunkirk. This timeframe means that this pattern is the only acceptable pattern of universal pouch for a British Expeditionary Force web set from 1939 or 1940. 

The pouch is made from the standard webbing material and features a brass press stud to close the front, a brass twig buckle to the top and brass belt hangers to the rear. These belt hangers are noticeably higher than on the MKII and mean that the pouch sits very differently when on the waist belt. 

The pouch is in very good condition as can be seen in the pictures. It has a washed out appearance which is consistent with the majority of webbing found in France which was left by the BEF. There is no date marked inside the pouch but this pattern was only made prior to June 1940 which dates it to before that period. It was also found in France so is most likely a BEF used example.

A rare pouch in good condition. A must have for the serious early war collector!  

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'