December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 133:
Description
This is a rare and authentic World War II era Imperial Japanese Army ammunition bandolier or magazine pouch vest. The piece is constructed of sturdy, coarse khaki canvas material and is designed with multiple vertical pockets across the front, secured by canvas flap closures and wood or bone toggles. This design was used to carry rifle ammunition clips or magazines, likely for the Type 38 or Type 99 Arisaka rifle. The bandolier features attached canvas shoulder straps to be worn over the torso. Crucially, the reverse of the vest is marked with Japanese characters , stenciled in black, which typically denote the unit, arsenal, or year of manufacture. The overall construction quality, materials, and heavy patina suggest authentic field use during the Pacific War. Original Japanese field equipment, especially those pieces with visible markings, is highly sought after by WWII collectors.
Share this lot:
