Development of the Bag Carrying Ammunition
Object 74-B-54-30, known as "Bag Carrying Ammunition" and more commonly as "General Purpose Bag" or Musette GP, was adopted in 1941 with the purpose main purpose was the transport of ammunition to supply combat units. Its practical design made it possible to carry it over the shoulder using a strap (Strap, Carrying, Bag, Canvas, Field, OD, M-1936), or hang it to the Belt M-1936 belt. This bag is made from three sewn fabric elements – the front, the back going up to the closing flap, and a strip securing the sides and the bottom. The unassembled parts are hemmed to prevent fraying. A strap is sewn on all outer faces and is equipped with hooks of the type M-1910, making the bag robust even under heavy loads.
The soldier on the right in the foreground is wearing this bag around his neck.
Using the Ammunition Carrying Bag
The bag is closed with a spun cotton strap with M-1910 type ladder tightening buckles . The loops vary depending on the availability of raw materials. Among the variants found between 1941 and 1945, we distinguishes buckles molded in bronzed brass, stamped in parkerized steel, or molded in painted zamak. The strap closure also has variations in the metal material used for the sheaths placed at its end.
The soldier sitting on the chair in the background also wears the satchel around his neck.
Evolution of Bag Carrying Ammunition
The bag was declined in two main types, each characterized by distinct metal accessories at the strap termination. The Type I , the original model, was produced with M-1910 hooks, in a tint Olive Drab No. 3 from 1941 to mid-1944. Many variations emerged, mixing the two colors used during the war. Type II , adopted from September 1944, replaces one of the hooks with a half-ring (D-ring) For allow more versatile use.
The soldier walking behind the jeep carries the General Ammunition Bag on his back.
An additional model, under the designation ETO (European Theater of Operations) , was produced in England between 1944 and 1945, in order to reduce dependence on supplies from the United States. This model British used typical metal elements, while retaining the design of American models.
Each variation provided for the marking of the manufacturer and the year on the inside of the flap. Companies such as that AMERICAN FABRICS Co., VICTORY CANVAS Co., and many others participated in production during the periods respective.
| Manufacturer | Year of Production |
|---|---|
| AMER FABRICS Co. | 1943-1944 |
| AMERICAN FABRICS Co. | 1945 |
| ANCHOR CANVAS | 1943 |
| AVERY | 1944-1945 |
| BBS Co (BAUER BROTHERS SHOE Co) | 1944 |
| BOYT (BOYT HARNESS Co) | 1943 |
| CANVAS PROD OF KC | 1944-1945 |
| CHALFANT A. & S. Co. | 1944 |
| CLEVE. CANVAS | 1945 |
| GOLDS Co | 1944 |
| G. & R. Co (GREGORY & READ Co) | 1943 |
| HAMLIN CANVAS | 1944 |
| HARIAN | 1942-1945 |
| HAV.STCH. Co | 1945 |
| JEFF.QMD | 1942-1944 |
| KADIN | 1942-1943 |
| LAIRD SCHOBER | 1944 |
| LEITCHFIELD Mfg. Co. | 1943-1945 |
| MANAFFEY BROS. TENT & AWNING Co. | 1945 |
| MYRNA SHOE Inc | 1944 |
| MORROW & DOUGLAS | 1943-1945 |
| S. FROEHLICH Co. Inc. NYC | 1943 |
| SCHOLL GOODS. Co. Inc. | 1944 |
| SCOTT Mfg. Co | 1943 |
| S.FROEHLICH. Co. Inc. | 1943 |
| TWEEDIE | 1944 |
| VICTORY CANVAS Co. | 1943-1945 |
| WALTER C. ROESSIG & Co. | 1943 |
| ZL & TI | 1941 |
| Manufacturer ETO | Year of Production |
| AC | 1944 |
| BH & G. | 1945 |
| ME CO (Mills Equipment Co) | 1944 |
| MW & S. LTD | 1944 |
Conclusion on Bag Carrying Ammunition
In conclusion, the 74-B-54-30 bag, also known as the "Bag Carrying Ammunition", remains an example emblematic of World War II military ingenuity. Initially adopted in 1941 , this bag has proven its usefulness in the field thanks to its robust and adaptable design, which allowed for secure transport of ammunition. Its ability to be worn over the shoulder or attached to a belt was a testament to its flexibility. for use by soldiers in operations.
The soldier walking behind the jeep carries the General Ammunition Bag on his back.
The diversity of materials and elements used in its manufacture, as well as the variations introduced over time years, illustrate the logistical challenges and adjustments that had to be made in response to the constraints of production and the war effort. The two main types of this bag, with their variations, show how Each model was designed to meet the specific needs of the time, while taking into account the resources available.
The production of the ETO model in England underlines the ingenuity of the Allies in reducing their dependence on transatlantic expeditions, adapting crucial equipment locally. This freed up transport capacities for other priority needs, such as foodstuffs and metals, without compromise the effectiveness of military operations.
In short, the 74-B-54-30 bag stands out not only for its functionality , but also for its contribution historical contribution to the Allied war effort. Its thoughtful design, adaptability and production in response to changing needs of the battlefield make it a fascinating piece of military equipment to study and collect. Through its various variations and manufacturing processes, the bag illustrates the complexities and innovations of military supply during World War II.
