M42 Y-Straps, LONG

Description

Standard combat suspenders worn by German troops in WWII. Although introduced in 1939, the Koppeltragegestell für Infanterie” didn’t become commonplace until 1941. Although the design remained the same, there were several minor design changes implemented during the course of the War. Early straps had aluminum hardware which was switched to steel during 1940. Sometime in 1942-43 the adjustment method for auxiliary straps was changed from a stud to a slide, and the rivet cover stitching was simplified. There were also a number of manufacturer differences in the size and type of D-rings and hooks used.

The “M42” Y-straps are the latter style. “M42” is NOT a WWII German designation- we created it simply to easily identify this style, and 1942 is the earliest date I have encountered on originals of this type. These are readily identifiable in original photos by the exposed stitching on either side of the front rivets. They never entirely replaced the earlier style, and it was unlikely that they were meant to. These changes were just to speed up production.

Our Y-straps are made directly from originals, and every aspect is correctly duplicated.

Size: Longs are appropriate for people over 6′ 2″ in height.