The ONTC Forum

Jared Gentner · Joined: 03 Oct 2006 Posts: 13 Location: Adrian, MI

Please correct me if im wrong but im looking for a WWII US Paratrooper Backpack [Dont know the real tech. term] that was used at Normandy, Id like a new repro one but I cant find one on most of the stores and online shops Ive been too. Any help is appreciated.

Ken Osen · Guest

Hi There...You are looking for the M-36 field bag...or in the period quartermasters catalog, Bag,Canvas,Field,OD,M-1936. This bag came with a shoulder strap with D rings that could be attached to the short adjustable web straps with snap hooks attached to the top. It could also be attached to the D rings on the M-1936 combat suspenders.
Most of these appear in the light OD color and some are in the heavier water resistant fabric. Reproductions of various qualities are available and excellent ones were made for the movie 'Saving Private Ryan' and the HBO mini series 'Band of Brothers' these have been for sale from time to time at relic shows. There are several suppliers that handle these and I will get a name or two soon. be aware that on some WWII items a good reproduction can cost almost as much as an original. You can usually find a servicable M36 bag for about $50.00.
Hope this helps, Ken

Jared Gentner · Joined: 03 Oct 2006 Posts: 13 Location: Adrian, MI

Ken,
Thanks, yes this helps. I thats what I was looking for.I was going to get a vintage 1936 bag for a dollar on ebay but when I emailed the guy at the end of the action telling him Id give him 50 for it[Action ended and he wasnt going to repost it] He does repost it for 75. And I just planed to use it for Hunting and that.