WW2 German Army Tornnister Pony pack dated 1939 Gebirgsjäger Soldier Named
$300.00 CAD
WW2 German Tornnister “Pony” pack dated 1939 with a Gebirgsjäger (mountain troops) Edelweiss Badge
Very nice example, original straps and marked buckles. Period attached Edelweiss Badge. Soldiers last name and trooper number is present. Maker marked.
The Pony Fur – “horse or cow hide” is in good condition. Inside mess pocket still present. Good condition throughout, none of the leather straps are ripped, still wearable today.
The M39 Tornister, often referred to as the “Affe” (which means “monkey” in German, due to its resemblance to a monkey’s back when worn), was a type of backpack used by the German Wehrmacht (military) during World War II. The “M39” indicates the model year, 1939, when this version was standardized.
Key Features:
- Materials:
- Pony Hair: One of the most distinctive features of the M39 Tornister was its outer covering made from cowhide or horsehide, often with the fur (hair) left on. This was typically referred to as “pony hair” and gave the pack a unique, rugged appearance.
- Canvas and Leather: The pack’s structure was supported by a combination of canvas and leather straps. The interior was typically lined with canvas.
- Design:
- The pack was relatively small, designed to carry basic essentials like rations, personal items, and small tools.
- It had a flap with leather straps and metal buckles to secure the contents.
- The pack was usually carried on the back, suspended by leather shoulder straps, and sometimes had additional loops and straps for attaching extra gear or for a bedroll.
- Usage:
- The M39 Tornister was part of the standard issue for German soldiers, especially in the early years of World War II.
- As the war progressed and the need for more practical and larger field gear became evident, the Tornister was gradually replaced by other types of rucksacks that offered more space and functionality.
- Historical Significance:
- The M39 Tornister is a recognizable piece of Wehrmacht equipment and is often seen in period photographs of German soldiers.
- Today, it is a sought-after collectible item for military historians and enthusiasts, especially those interested in World War II memorabilia.
The use of pony hair in the construction of the M39 Tornister was not only for durability but also for its water-resistant properties. However, the reliance on natural materials also meant that these packs could vary slightly in appearance depending on the specific hide used.
The Gebirgsjäger were specialized mountain troops in the German Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS during World War II. These elite soldiers were trained and equipped for combat in mountainous and rough terrain, making them crucial in operations in alpine regions and other challenging environments.
Overview of the Gebirgsjäger:
- Formation and Structure:
- The Gebirgsjäger units were part of the broader German infantry but were specially trained for mountain warfare.
- The first Gebirgsjäger division was formed in 1935, and more divisions were created as the war progressed. Notable divisions included the 1st Gebirgs Division and the 6th Gebirgs Division.
- Training and Skills:
- Gebirgsjäger soldiers underwent rigorous training in mountain climbing, skiing, survival, and the use of specialized equipment like crampons and ice axes.
- Their training emphasized endurance, self-reliance, and the ability to operate in harsh, isolated environments.
- Uniform and Equipment:
- Edelweiss Insignia: One of the most distinctive features of the Gebirgsjäger uniform was the Edelweiss insignia, worn on the right side of the Bergmütze (mountain cap) and the left sleeve of the uniform. The Edelweiss is a symbol of mountain troops, signifying their connection to alpine warfare.
- Boots: They wore specialized mountain boots with hobnails for better grip on rocky and icy terrain.
- Weapons: They were equipped similarly to regular infantry but also had access to mountain-specific gear like light mortars, pack animals (mules) for transporting heavy equipment, and occasionally, mountain artillery.
- Tornister Packs: Like other Wehrmacht troops, Gebirgsjäger used packs, including the M39 Tornister, to carry their gear, though they often modified their load to suit the demands of mountain warfare.
- Notable Campaigns:
- Norway (1940): Gebirgsjäger played a significant role in the German invasion of Norway, where their skills were crucial in the rugged Scandinavian terrain.
- Eastern Front: They fought in the Caucasus Mountains, where their ability to operate in high-altitude and difficult terrain was tested to the limit.
- Italy and the Balkans: The Gebirgsjäger were involved in several campaigns in Italy and the Balkans, where mountainous terrain dominated the battlefield.
- Reputation and Legacy:
- The Gebirgsjäger earned a reputation for toughness and effectiveness in challenging conditions. Their ability to operate in extreme environments made them a formidable force.
- They were respected by both their allies and enemies for their specialized skills and endurance.
- Post-War:
- After World War II, the tradition of mountain troops continued in the German Bundeswehr (modern German military), where Gebirgsjäger units still exist and are trained in similar skills as their WWII predecessors.
Key Challenges:
- Despite their specialized training, the Gebirgsjäger faced significant challenges, especially during the harsh winters on the Eastern Front and the logistical difficulties of operating in remote, mountainous areas.
Today, the Gebirgsjäger are remembered as one of the most distinctive and skilled branches of the Wehrmacht, with their legacy still influencing modern mountain warfare tactics and training.