British-Made 5 Cell Thompson Pouch

[med-dept]

Some of you may have seen this item on eBay a while ago. It wasn't listed too brilliantly, but I decided to take a shot at it, but I wasn't convinced since I've never seen another one.

 

However, when it arrived, I have no questions at all that this is an original 5-cell Thompson Magazine Pouch produced under the Reverse Lend-Lease programme. I've prepared a few photographs, and have also compared it to original US-produced examples in my collection, and offer them here for reference.

 

The cut-out section on the back of the pouch looks to be where a European leather clip has been removed, since there is a great deal of British-Made equipment which has French leather buckles and D-rings attached from post-WW2 service.

 

Since this was manufactured by Mills Equipment Co (M. E. Co.), I've also compared it to the British-Made M. E. Co. BAR Belt that I also have.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks,

Ben.

[med-dept]

Here it is compared to a US-produced example. You can clearly see the difference in construction, and materials. The fasteners on this British-Made example are "Lift The Dot", which is always a good sign for British-Made gear.

 

 

 

 

Cheers,

Ben.

[med-dept]

Finally, here it is compared next to a British-Made BAR Belt:

 

 

 

 

Thanks,

Ben.

[jgawne]

I will admit that it certainly looks like one (lucky bastard), but of course, that is without tasting it.

[med-dept]

Thanks Jon, have to say, I've never seen another

 

Cheers,

Ben.

[Sabrejet]

Looks like you hit pay-dirt there Ben!

[David D]

That's nice, great find

 

-Dave

[Acadien359]

Guys,

 

I've always been a nut for British Made gear for over 30 years [it was one of those unissued first aid pouches that got me hooked back then!] I have the Brit Made Thompson drum pouch, but had never heard of, much less seen, the stick mag pouch. Also, I knew there was a Brit Made BAR belt but this is the first photo I've seen of that belt as well. Thanks for sharing and now I have two more pieces of Brit Made gear to look for.

 

Alan

[Johan Willaert]

Alan,

 

You may want to get this:

 

http://overlord-publishing.com/products/wd-british-made-us-army-clothing-and-equipment

[med-dept]

Thanks, Johan

 

Regards,

Ben.

[Costa]

BEN, LUCKY DAY--- FOR SURE A REARITY AMONG BRIT MADE U.S. ITEMS. GOOD CATCH BEN.