Original 1941 Dated British 1940 Patten Cavalry Webbing Waterbottle

A scarce original 'Carrier, water bottle, W.E. Patt. '40' which is clearly dated 1941 along with a MK VIII Waterbottle. 

This pattern of water bottle carrier formed part of the 1940 pattern cavalry webbing equipment which was produced in limited quantity at the beginning of the Second World War. The newly formed 1st Cavalry Division was to be sent to Palestine in 1940 and it was decided they should have their own specific cavalry webbing suited to being on horseback. This was designed by Mill's Equipment Company's Chief Designer, Albert Lethern.

The carrier is made from the standard double warp thread used for most webbing equipment produced for the British military during the first half of the 20th Century. It is of a notably different and more complicated design than the standard 1937 pattern. It was designed to be worn on the back rather than slung low to be effective when mounted on a horse. The maker's name of 'MECo' along with the 1941 date and the War Department broad arrow are present to the inside of the carrier. 

The carrier is in excellent condition with no previous signs of wear or use. They display very well and have a clean, fresh appearance. Please study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage item which may have some small flaws commensurate with age. 

The carrier comes complete with an original MK VIII water bottle as introduced into service in 1939. It features a green enamelled bolt with khaki green wool cover and is in good, clean condition.

A scarce piece of WW2 British webbing which is in excellent condition.