Heer M31 Zeltbahn 

The splinter pattern camouflage was developed in the early 1930’s and was first adopted for use with the M31 Zeltbahn in late 1931. Further developments in 1943 modified the original splinter pattern by softly blurring the distinct geometric pattern and slightly altering the coloration. This modified camouflage pattern was designated the Tan/water camouflage pattern. Further camouflage pattern development continued through-out the war and additional subtly different patterns were created with the intent to equip all personnel with the same camouflage pattern but this was never achieved. The M31 Zeltbahn was a standard issue item for all EM/NCO personnel and besides it’s basic use as a protective rain poncho it came accompanied with tenting accessories that consisted of the M1892 tent rope, the three piece M1901 breakdown tent pole, and two M1929 tent pegs enabling the individual to utilize his Quarter shelter with others to form assorted sized tents.

This is a standard issue, water resistant, cotton drill construction, quarter shelter/poncho with the printed, geometric, splinter camouflage pattern in shades of tans, brown and green. The camouflage pattern has a slightly lighter, spring coloration to one side, and a slightly darker, autumn coloration to the other side. All original zinc – dish buttons appear to be in place as well as some tie strings. The colors shows some age fading and there is a couple of minor (hardly visable) holes. All in all considering the nature of this item, a well preserved Zeltbahn in good condition.

Getting harder and harder to find well preserved Zeltbahn’s like this one!!