With the devastating power of machine guns and modern rifles, trench warfare became the prevailing method used in WWI. Both sides dug in to trenches surrounded by sand-bags and barbed wire allowing them to indefinitely defend themselves against enemy fire and advancement. To break the line, new weapons were needed to inflict high casualties on the hidden enemy, but from a safe distance. One of these weapons was poisonous gas, releasing poisonous gas on the enemy would hopefully end the stalemate.

The Germans first released jets of chlorine gas on the French on April 22, 1915. The French scattered in fear of this unknown assailant. Gas warfare had begun. Many forms of gas were developed with millions of soldiers dying from toxic fumes and chemical burns. Scientists quickly began to work on ways to neutralize the gas and protective masks were developed.

By the end of the war, gas masks and the bags in which they were carried became standard equipment for men in the trenches. The canvas bag, to be carried at all times, had an adjustable strap allowing it to hang directly below the neck for optimum efficiency in the event of a gas attack.

This authentic messenger style reproduction is constructed of treated cotton “duck” canvas and features two internal compartments with front flap and double snap closures. Comfortable cotton canvas shoulder strap has authentic hardware and measures 42” long. Bag comes with a full color tri-fold historical booklet developed in partnership with Osprey Publishing.

Product Specifications:

Product Overview: Approximate bag dimensions: 9 3/4” wide x 9” tall x 2 1/4” deep.