WW2 German Army Gas Mask Post-War Used by BGS (Bundesgrenzschutz)! No Filter

  

WW2 German Army Gas Mask - Post-War Used by BGS (Bundesgrenzschutz)?? This unique item is a fascinating piece of history, featuring a WW2 German Army gas mask used post-war by the Bundesgrenzschutz (BGS), the former Federal Border Police of Germany. The mask itself is in a worn condition, with the rubber having hardened over time and lost its elasticity. Despite its age, it retains the original wartime maker's spare eye lenses, dated 1943, offering an authentic touch to any collection or display. The gas mask's canister closely resembles the wartime versions but has a modified lid for the spare lens compartment, dated 1957, with a NATO number marking.

Inside this compartment, you will find a packet containing spare lenses, which are also dated 1943, further adding to the authenticity of the set. This gas mask and canister combination is an ideal find for reenactors or collectors looking for a visually identical representation of a complete wartime set. It's especially rare to come across such a combination that retains key elements of the original German military gear, paired with post-war modifications used by the BGS during the Cold War. The final image in the listing showcases BGS troopers in their M38 gas masks and wartime German helmets, following NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) warfare training exercises. During the Cold War, the possibility of chemical and nuclear conflict between NATO and the Warsaw Pact was highly anticipated, and the BGS was tasked with protecting the West German border.

As a result, the BGS troopers were often exposed to the threat of chemical warfare and fallout, making the use of these gas masks essential for their survival. In the 1950s and 1960s, BGS forces used these ex-Wehrmacht M38 gas masks because they were familiar with the design, having been trained with them during WWII.

The masks were also compatible with the M35 Stahlhelm, the standard German military helmet. The gas mask canisters, like the one included here, were often reused or modified to serve the BGS, providing a direct link between WWII and the post-war era. This item offers a rare and tangible connection to both WWII and Cold War history, perfect for collectors, reenactors, or history enthusiasts. Very nice collectible item, rare and in very nice condition.

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