Original Item: Only One Available. This is a great example of the standard ammunition bandolier issued to German Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger Paratroopers during WWII. As they were often dropped behind enemy lines and far from the supply chain, they were provided with these bandoliers, which have 6 pockets on each side. Some of these pockets are double layered, so the bandolier fully loaded would carry 20 stripper clips of 5 rounds each for the Mauser K98k rifle. The bandolier has some attachment straps on the back to integrate with the standard combat rigging.

These were produced in "field blue" earlier in the war, which is the color this example is in. Later on they were changed to "tan", which is more of a green color. The snaps are the correct blue Luftwaffe color, and all appear to be marked PRYM 6. This was a known supplier of Luftwaffe snaps during the war. The bandolier measures approximately 56 inches when fully extended, so it was probably for a regular size individual. It is marked on the rear of one side with the original maker information:

Karl Lotz
Lederwaren - Fabrik
Mühlheim a. Main

Condition is very good, with very little wear, just some discoloration of the fabric due to age and light exposure. There is however some oxidation on the zinc plating of the snaps, resulting in "white rust" in areas, so they should be opened with care. However, we tested every snap on every flap and they all function perfectly and solidly. There is no tearing of the fabric around the snaps themselves and the fabric remains supple. The bandolier does not look to have been issued, so all of the wear is from age and storage. A great chance to pick up a seldom seen accessory from WWII!