tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67942648835092811262024-03-13T03:03:18.516-07:00Four BeesSharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.comBlogger647125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-74907481787906096772023-05-02T13:25:00.009-07:002023-05-02T16:03:36.490-07:00Veteran's Fire Helmet, Custom Morning Pride HB2-Plus, Butte County Fire Department, North Chico Volunteer Fire Department Company 42, BCFD - NCVFD<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EkA1FiRsz0O_udyuPflCesHGtjC7afhuIL1aif1xl1odvgTJxDCSOl2zfcYtpGpOLe6pKRR0xR3Ljqw8uB8i3jVGK9h4DuAkJ6lLXO0cq6RCjAXjNcMpuPozEdWkAl6uskWDKmeqZcAdLf-gHNu9ud9vm3yoa0CkyrNntQesKdrW3CTovVB__sC7_w/s2592/DSC01943.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EkA1FiRsz0O_udyuPflCesHGtjC7afhuIL1aif1xl1odvgTJxDCSOl2zfcYtpGpOLe6pKRR0xR3Ljqw8uB8i3jVGK9h4DuAkJ6lLXO0cq6RCjAXjNcMpuPozEdWkAl6uskWDKmeqZcAdLf-gHNu9ud9vm3yoa0CkyrNntQesKdrW3CTovVB__sC7_w/w480-h640/DSC01943.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Well, after over a year, I'm back to the blog! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">It's been "one of those years" +. I've been working on some serious research and artifact display - cataloging projects. All of that, and "real life". Did I say it's been one of those years?....................... With all that said, and more not said, I figured I'd get back to the blog with something "simple". So here it is.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I was a firefighter back in the early 1980's, with Butte County Fire Department, and the North Chico Volunteer Fire Department Company 42. I worked out of Station 42 in Chico, California. I filled two positions. Station firefighter as my full time job, and volunteer with Company 42 when I was off duty. </span><br /></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezA1EvTQlEF_rKa5MEibFHEQdU-bc9MJQZlS9kl48HeIREV041x_802kbyESQsnw0ZIClIyJTgI_ZQnTMUhLqAsLXFOmty1QHYQdeN0MetpGcRggbOUo-VtRnKnpADPpo-eiiDtKZaGocS5RuNKu_zPxLUjYQR8i_v8kxy7ebXPdqPlXhij__ZEpgqg/s1178/Picture%20006.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1178" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezA1EvTQlEF_rKa5MEibFHEQdU-bc9MJQZlS9kl48HeIREV041x_802kbyESQsnw0ZIClIyJTgI_ZQnTMUhLqAsLXFOmty1QHYQdeN0MetpGcRggbOUo-VtRnKnpADPpo-eiiDtKZaGocS5RuNKu_zPxLUjYQR8i_v8kxy7ebXPdqPlXhij__ZEpgqg/w400-h271/Picture%20006.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">At the time I started in 1982, I was issued some of the OLD, black turnouts along with a "modern" helmet. We later received the "modern" tan turnouts. The issue helmet was the Cairns Brothers helmet of the day. But, what I really dreamed of was a more traditional helmet. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEphHTxM2UKBtPVn4pVIWx4JAclzu_DExwqb0V0lCT8WeX0ae3sXfxbkhFRRnBtVRpG0LdREVk91Jp0omqlAneyFjFyirTNUGL2w4nQoeiojRXro0jENi9qJgg8P-Sag1AdBEp6Kav3vwiLBlbj_2y_Pivpxu8XoepnBB9S6U1NeCkCvrOJ3jLbHIFQ/s912/BCFD%20Municipal.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="752" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEphHTxM2UKBtPVn4pVIWx4JAclzu_DExwqb0V0lCT8WeX0ae3sXfxbkhFRRnBtVRpG0LdREVk91Jp0omqlAneyFjFyirTNUGL2w4nQoeiojRXro0jENi9qJgg8P-Sag1AdBEp6Kav3vwiLBlbj_2y_Pivpxu8XoepnBB9S6U1NeCkCvrOJ3jLbHIFQ/w330-h400/BCFD%20Municipal.jpg" width="330" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I never ended up with a "traditional" helmet during my fire service time, but I did pick one up several years ago and decided to do a "Veteran's Commemorative Helmet" as a tribute to my time as a firefighter</span>.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I found a new, never issued, Morning Pride, HB2-Plus helmet at a local thrift shop, the helmet was complete, but lacking the front name shield. The price was LOW, and it was the perfect candidate for my envisioned project. It was even the correct color! (Manufacture date of 2001).</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The first task was to design the front shield. I have been working with riveted brass and steel for many years, for restorations and replica creations, so I decided to go with a Detroit Style, metal front shield. Detroit has used metal, as opposed to leather, for many, many years. I did quite a bit of "helmet browsing" online and finally settled on a shield shape and size. Out came the pencil and paper and some trial and error design sketches. When I finally settled on the design layout, I made small patterns of the banners, numbers and shield.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Off to the shop. I cut the pieces out of sheet brass, filed the edges to crisp angles and a finished, rounded edge. The main shield was painted with several coats of exterior "fire engine red" spray paint, and allowed to cure for a few weeks. When the red shield was ready, I drilled and hand rived the banners and numbers to the shield. Since the act of riveting involves "hammer work", I decided to paint the banners and numbers after they were attached. (I think I'd paint first, and touch up after riveting next time!). I carefully masked around the banners and numbers and gave them a few coats of spray paint. When everything was dry and cured, it was time for the lettering.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I lightly penciled on the lettering, and then hand painted the wording with a small brush and black oil-enamel. After everything was dry, I clear-coated it all with clear lacquer, to protect the paint. Since this is basically a display helmet, I wasn't worried about "heat damage", so the painted shield was a good choice.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The finished shield turned out exactly as I had hoped, and even a little better.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y1JF-WICPU9N_UW-5EsTmmsOWIXEM2vTWQaSK1GZWfUSD6R2OlyrDpDffDrWEbhzmOD_Kk1mRmLaLK-hJenXoVIBDOmyH2KdHscVJhexoSZ0E_T0fW7BAEvh1xAzCcI44axHrBp1qQfGNuKwIR7_gU1ogbcqEOn32o4aV7EYQi-SpcLC46Bo53REsA/s2592/DSC01958.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y1JF-WICPU9N_UW-5EsTmmsOWIXEM2vTWQaSK1GZWfUSD6R2OlyrDpDffDrWEbhzmOD_Kk1mRmLaLK-hJenXoVIBDOmyH2KdHscVJhexoSZ0E_T0fW7BAEvh1xAzCcI44axHrBp1qQfGNuKwIR7_gU1ogbcqEOn32o4aV7EYQi-SpcLC46Bo53REsA/w300-h400/DSC01958.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">After the shield was done, I turned my attention to the chinstrap. The "from-the-factory" chinstrap was made from a fire resistant synthetic webbing. I decided to go with a more traditional leather chin strap. I pulled out some spare harness leather I had in the shop, then cut and riveted up a new strap, using the original hardware. The leather chinstrap really completes the look!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHTQXdm3VHUOY5ve4gVSmFEF4Dqay-ItQ0k7RyMpXdkklH2kRqzYS9lACfKf90k6x3z9tQ-esK5CeTIIKx8oteWNxNI5n9A_9Z-qrUmyw5vnbcDtFmX0tPSs3NOKq9PYCGx_QgiyoQ7X9viK6_RZmVwF85azmwI2Pgeof9RCoHNz1F7q2OYPO7HG_Xg/s2592/DSC01951.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHTQXdm3VHUOY5ve4gVSmFEF4Dqay-ItQ0k7RyMpXdkklH2kRqzYS9lACfKf90k6x3z9tQ-esK5CeTIIKx8oteWNxNI5n9A_9Z-qrUmyw5vnbcDtFmX0tPSs3NOKq9PYCGx_QgiyoQ7X9viK6_RZmVwF85azmwI2Pgeof9RCoHNz1F7q2OYPO7HG_Xg/w300-h400/DSC01951.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This helmet was originally designed to use a face visor. It had larger "lugs" in the top of the brim where the chinstrap bolted on, for a pivoting visor to attach. I removed the lugs, altered the mounts with a custom shim, and shorter brass machine screws. The resulting "sleek profile" really finished things off.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I still have my original helmet and turnouts, so this "Veteran Helmet" is a great addition, giving me that "before and after" display. A helmet like this is a great way to show your service, and is a long-lasting bit of memorabilia that can be passed down through the family.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">So, let's not delay. Here are some photos of the finished helmet and a few of the 1980's original.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix72Q-qPIKXue1iBikkgsDv6TIEM8IQvI6w89lA9XqcSMjV-4bmdfI3U8Nk_WnLYcw7uA7fr-h4gMKkh8T23otD9l1Up19KBgUUa8EpicHWaWf8O_sG-JsgmWA8p8kf6b28XnTPBkWkG5H4Ew7spegrNFG9U3v_RuzI5OLnckBHV1mOH8adq_A2d4M1A/s2592/DSC01941.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix72Q-qPIKXue1iBikkgsDv6TIEM8IQvI6w89lA9XqcSMjV-4bmdfI3U8Nk_WnLYcw7uA7fr-h4gMKkh8T23otD9l1Up19KBgUUa8EpicHWaWf8O_sG-JsgmWA8p8kf6b28XnTPBkWkG5H4Ew7spegrNFG9U3v_RuzI5OLnckBHV1mOH8adq_A2d4M1A/w300-h400/DSC01941.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvoJ9awN4n4-t8RSPVPrWxoBYEZj0kXini_j-Fdc48wvb_MIFyLoQbhNc3D-fmrnCcVUcZLUQHuJCIG4bs-trF5taqCkLaQBt6SbHBqOfDJC-FqFZK-8uaLJhp_PuT3f8ZyIVQsstqbX9lye2-Y3DT94BJQQox6GtCRlv6cQiEvzaEDNUh2GQ8NkFPQ/s2592/DSC01947.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvoJ9awN4n4-t8RSPVPrWxoBYEZj0kXini_j-Fdc48wvb_MIFyLoQbhNc3D-fmrnCcVUcZLUQHuJCIG4bs-trF5taqCkLaQBt6SbHBqOfDJC-FqFZK-8uaLJhp_PuT3f8ZyIVQsstqbX9lye2-Y3DT94BJQQox6GtCRlv6cQiEvzaEDNUh2GQ8NkFPQ/w300-h400/DSC01947.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2tEXkAJMaVAjtGUJEuphQckItqZV9rTwd0MLgNak88H2SEUoJ7gFYzUA2c4-xMC-mHiCf9-t1jJoszIS9mdPQB_6c1Nm6pubV-sAOj4PWHNC-LZOnHBhC1ryFn7B62DdBLZnxYw6aHCrG-FOLK-D0819OOUuS-GZmV_oomqODPyxCfX36ojPeNT6AMg/s2592/DSC01944.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFdX6_8UwvSC6ay3YtCuviWAPrT1Nid4l9eMRPsjj6ZfxjIKFzkgaW-zhKbT5n0eTUs6-eNVUoNXUNNxbFoT1guBvkPpx240oMeA7WeJTgzpM4TuLM35J7lZwLgiNT5Gv2Gba_isGGzq9Eh__GVLg4HJuiGHCi-6z9R9LPDQhk4tosBHXChSorC9FKg/s2592/DSC01958.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFdX6_8UwvSC6ay3YtCuviWAPrT1Nid4l9eMRPsjj6ZfxjIKFzkgaW-zhKbT5n0eTUs6-eNVUoNXUNNxbFoT1guBvkPpx240oMeA7WeJTgzpM4TuLM35J7lZwLgiNT5Gv2Gba_isGGzq9Eh__GVLg4HJuiGHCi-6z9R9LPDQhk4tosBHXChSorC9FKg/w300-h400/DSC01958.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uCO-7MDbHjSdGMuWI5yVdgdztlKB6NJFkpLJ3Ur6kFDQxc5Y-soRN8jGlqlS9psDZEdyv0ZZXh99Lu_4EZIxrsOpSB9tDyIq4dnE13OZ-IBdfzzf6ooSJUiYiu6UgJkRczjhO16NasYVCeUBzRZ68h46BDbPFHY-OK-LqjviutAM93JPr7MlupgDQQ/s2592/DSC01950.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uCO-7MDbHjSdGMuWI5yVdgdztlKB6NJFkpLJ3Ur6kFDQxc5Y-soRN8jGlqlS9psDZEdyv0ZZXh99Lu_4EZIxrsOpSB9tDyIq4dnE13OZ-IBdfzzf6ooSJUiYiu6UgJkRczjhO16NasYVCeUBzRZ68h46BDbPFHY-OK-LqjviutAM93JPr7MlupgDQQ/w400-h300/DSC01950.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfop-xOgavZa4-GaAlujUMFn1JEHFX3a4mlR5Klvw1Bshd162tUuy1KFiG7kx7o0_bT88q9gi6HfWn_QXjTx48QcmZ6I_fW4DhrcScJoFOzKVliML2RS6Zq4CcPN_a5pNk7J9ZMx1jTKS2EhaNU4os-L7934uoruFryF-IOstXECdh_MnXIediAefZw/s2592/DSC01951.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfop-xOgavZa4-GaAlujUMFn1JEHFX3a4mlR5Klvw1Bshd162tUuy1KFiG7kx7o0_bT88q9gi6HfWn_QXjTx48QcmZ6I_fW4DhrcScJoFOzKVliML2RS6Zq4CcPN_a5pNk7J9ZMx1jTKS2EhaNU4os-L7934uoruFryF-IOstXECdh_MnXIediAefZw/w300-h400/DSC01951.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMb-2tGzP0KJj-RY68iRPE9ee2JRJLO3PA1aKrrDvj-a47w3H8z_-OYcgeKNA2D-Nmg1VehFDf9Kr1JtuIPcnTwZUiAXV89X7LaEh8dX16_ZZ9v8OgLdvo1YR6O79tkA9IwOc2BKU21OQaGRHlv0iv5Hw3YBVVMEpX_NXGWdDOuza8IL4-VdBGcmvdA/s2592/DSC01959.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMb-2tGzP0KJj-RY68iRPE9ee2JRJLO3PA1aKrrDvj-a47w3H8z_-OYcgeKNA2D-Nmg1VehFDf9Kr1JtuIPcnTwZUiAXV89X7LaEh8dX16_ZZ9v8OgLdvo1YR6O79tkA9IwOc2BKU21OQaGRHlv0iv5Hw3YBVVMEpX_NXGWdDOuza8IL4-VdBGcmvdA/w300-h400/DSC01959.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vBTfOOAUJK24VK2kX0QnGNe1ir1RVJ6GhDDJHN6MTCI6ILQaNrlwwuh4QbBvf6JgUgaOClDm-dhYCPwOIAFgCPFOQmCh0Bfwly2FUsMc3iJpZvMRNdJMBg13iyVPLRgFSkiN4y8llVlag46hDcrPrEOr5zbVi1T1m1TyCmEdBgOny1ZbGFhS0wVcTw/s2592/DSC01961.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vBTfOOAUJK24VK2kX0QnGNe1ir1RVJ6GhDDJHN6MTCI6ILQaNrlwwuh4QbBvf6JgUgaOClDm-dhYCPwOIAFgCPFOQmCh0Bfwly2FUsMc3iJpZvMRNdJMBg13iyVPLRgFSkiN4y8llVlag46hDcrPrEOr5zbVi1T1m1TyCmEdBgOny1ZbGFhS0wVcTw/w300-h400/DSC01961.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Here are a few photos of both helmets, the "Old" and the "New". The first shot is a side-by-side of the two. Original on the left and the "Veteran" on the right.</b></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1s3vdfaAvK-4TAn__0GOHf2LoPQNAiDwGKaerN3Dxc9cW0cJ1HtBtnqAPHRbGGhSiitH9ak18RnbGZ41HMhXklUxRi1WCjNzEQtUtL2MIlkMulwJRL2inpmnZnEeiB9wa597Q0R1E0aR6Q9UAaO-NfV5W3UASfHZd7tHHrbzrDoChg9ov3jkkJ8EEWQ/s2592/DSC01963.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1s3vdfaAvK-4TAn__0GOHf2LoPQNAiDwGKaerN3Dxc9cW0cJ1HtBtnqAPHRbGGhSiitH9ak18RnbGZ41HMhXklUxRi1WCjNzEQtUtL2MIlkMulwJRL2inpmnZnEeiB9wa597Q0R1E0aR6Q9UAaO-NfV5W3UASfHZd7tHHrbzrDoChg9ov3jkkJ8EEWQ/w400-h300/DSC01963.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wF6JNlIZIls1nINLPdW1EtMjl98elE9hyZYjaTqLvvgrD_E2redeNfPSUOZFEP3bOPMOjnFL0WoHZb4QeZM1YfwplSkplKcFxHEf_UJ61ocv1cXp3dU00TuY6GlfuPKOW9MsNdr4tU9SK8uEDmVv3yHEZmH57_7qoD5z5a9lbjdBhSlQDI58bA0t7A/s2592/DSC01939.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wF6JNlIZIls1nINLPdW1EtMjl98elE9hyZYjaTqLvvgrD_E2redeNfPSUOZFEP3bOPMOjnFL0WoHZb4QeZM1YfwplSkplKcFxHEf_UJ61ocv1cXp3dU00TuY6GlfuPKOW9MsNdr4tU9SK8uEDmVv3yHEZmH57_7qoD5z5a9lbjdBhSlQDI58bA0t7A/w400-h300/DSC01939.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjvxgvuyx9jNv3xYFAz8wlaZ49y1JVrskhqtjAG6Jpu7uNt9eQHw_eEbsfw5kHO299zTcIcJPS8mEWzmVXOdjIe-ocMVk8utaLRldGb8Dpt714F6Vj9pSSZls5-_x8GyzaVwbTxGoV_t0OEBmQdpReNIHUy81rz0JNfL0BwU5V9LHyGVtt0mMvS3ldQ/s2592/DSC01953.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjvxgvuyx9jNv3xYFAz8wlaZ49y1JVrskhqtjAG6Jpu7uNt9eQHw_eEbsfw5kHO299zTcIcJPS8mEWzmVXOdjIe-ocMVk8utaLRldGb8Dpt714F6Vj9pSSZls5-_x8GyzaVwbTxGoV_t0OEBmQdpReNIHUy81rz0JNfL0BwU5V9LHyGVtt0mMvS3ldQ/w400-h300/DSC01953.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-88979069902296433112021-09-12T14:13:00.007-07:002022-03-20T07:59:50.459-07:00Glock Entrenching Tool, Danish Army M96, Denmark Model 1996, Danmark M/96, Austria, Feltspade<p><span style="font-size: large;">I have been working on filling the various holes in the "Modern Shovels" section of the collection, and I have had one VERY difficult shovel to find (at least here in the US). I have needed a Glock folding shovel. Not just any Glock shovel, but one that was actually issued to the Danish Army.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TJe7seCq_-M/YT5fe5sDZ5I/AAAAAAAAPGA/e1HuyGJKVr8hBsuk8ONWwIjsAmHGwmkPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00428.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TJe7seCq_-M/YT5fe5sDZ5I/AAAAAAAAPGA/e1HuyGJKVr8hBsuk8ONWwIjsAmHGwmkPgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00428.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Well I finally found one! I noticed that one of my favorite surplus sources in Finland had a batch of Glock shovels that were all surplus, and carried the official markings of the Danish Army. Just what I had been looking for!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cmjrkW_gohA/YT5f0htkI0I/AAAAAAAAPGI/F4auJ_cL1zEY4a-lWWI-hzXG6F6xWj_ywCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00416.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cmjrkW_gohA/YT5f0htkI0I/AAAAAAAAPGI/F4auJ_cL1zEY4a-lWWI-hzXG6F6xWj_ywCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00416.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Glock has been making and selling their version of the "military grade" folding shovel for 25 years. They are widely available in sporting goods stores, in nearly every country. 99.9% of these shovels are "Civilian" models, and carry no military markings. There are a few ex-military Glock shovels out there, but they are quite hard to find these days.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In 1996, The Danish Army adopted the Glock shovel as their official issue entrenching tool. They were given the classification of <i><b>Feltspade M/96</b></i>. The shovels that Glock supplied to Denmark were the same as their civilian shovels, with only one difference. They were stamped with "<i><b>Danmark M/96</b></i>" on the blade, below the civilian markings. Aside from that detail, the civilian shovels are exactly the same.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qowGnnTxvHM/YT5ijVq6LhI/AAAAAAAAPGQ/NS-JnC5FqwIyGUuP8Yf7izo-FtFj0fawwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00418.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qowGnnTxvHM/YT5ijVq6LhI/AAAAAAAAPGQ/NS-JnC5FqwIyGUuP8Yf7izo-FtFj0fawwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00418.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In the last few years, Denmark surplussed what appears to be the entire "first issue" inventory of their Glock shovels. I'm not sure if that means they have adopted another shovel style, or if Glock is continuing to supply their shovels to the Danish Army. I need to do some more research in that direction.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Before we get into the details of these shovels, I think I'll just put my own personal opinion on these shovels out there. I have handled all kinds of entrenching tools, from nearly every army, and from nearly every era, and I can say, that in my opinion, these Glock shovels fall far short of "military grade". They are not very heavy duty, and do not appear that they are built for anything more than casual, moderate digging. I think that might be why only one country has adopted them in all the years that they have been on the market. Basically they feel "cheap", and less-than heavy-duty. Of course this is only my opinion, but if you pick one of these up for true field work, you've been warned!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">With all of that out of the way, let's get on to the details.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The blade is stamped from a single piece of steel. There are no other blade parts. There is not a hinge-reinforcement mount riveted or welded on, just two tabs folded up with holes punched as the hinge.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBAJjCxf2zI/YT5i93_HlUI/AAAAAAAAPGY/oK6Vk4Vu1PY3DLM-ZUy6rVq5YPX4FIg7ACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00423.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBAJjCxf2zI/YT5i93_HlUI/AAAAAAAAPGY/oK6Vk4Vu1PY3DLM-ZUy6rVq5YPX4FIg7ACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00423.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The handle is completely made of black, polymer plastic. I am not sure if it is the same material that Glock uses for their pistol frames, or if it is just similar in appearance. The first section of the handle has the Glock trademark, and "Austria", stamped on one side, and a US patent number on the other side (US.Pat. 4.475.757).<br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fpA5oLT_cQ/YT5jTFGMpvI/AAAAAAAAPGg/P_UbfgAEuLwwB95D39Qif1Rq-jbrcaS5wCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00421.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fpA5oLT_cQ/YT5jTFGMpvI/AAAAAAAAPGg/P_UbfgAEuLwwB95D39Qif1Rq-jbrcaS5wCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00421.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bdv9HELI_0w/YT5jqM4vtMI/AAAAAAAAPGo/iP6EkUuutswD-qeYbkTqhj6uZaJtSDPbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00422.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bdv9HELI_0w/YT5jqM4vtMI/AAAAAAAAPGo/iP6EkUuutswD-qeYbkTqhj6uZaJtSDPbgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00422.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;">The handle is a two-part, telescoping arrangement. The second section pulls out and by twisting it counterclockwise, you can "firm-it-up", but not mechanically lock it in place.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">There is a single pin that goes through the handle end and the blade hinge holes. There is a plastic, threaded tightener knob that is attached to one end of the hinge pin by means of a screw. The knob is used to lock the blade in it's various positions.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNeyFtYujM/YT5kEy32hwI/AAAAAAAAPGw/RKHN870b_N0743eunta8mF8SJ5qROpO_wCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00419.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNeyFtYujM/YT5kEy32hwI/AAAAAAAAPGw/RKHN870b_N0743eunta8mF8SJ5qROpO_wCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00419.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">There are four positions that the blade can be locked at. Each position is determined by a groove in the handle end, that matches a raised ridge on the blade. The positions are: Fully Closed, Fully Open, Open to a 25% angle (approximately), and a 45% angle (approximately). </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QkZ-JWFx4_c/YT5khBXjY3I/AAAAAAAAPG4/yyf46xLErfQeaivZpgNdcwqcRgvX115gACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00431.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QkZ-JWFx4_c/YT5khBXjY3I/AAAAAAAAPG4/yyf46xLErfQeaivZpgNdcwqcRgvX115gACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00431.JPG" width="400" /></a><br /></div><p><span style="font-size: large;">There is a threaded end cap on the end of the second section of the handle. When the ring-cap is unscrewed, you can remove a saw blade that is stored inside. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QoTgB_EODk/YT5k4mOVcDI/AAAAAAAAPHA/LA-I8D_uVOMxrTcGEbkTUYGIy6ZRGAu6gCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00432.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QoTgB_EODk/YT5k4mOVcDI/AAAAAAAAPHA/LA-I8D_uVOMxrTcGEbkTUYGIy6ZRGAu6gCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00432.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The saw blade is installed by reinserting it into the end of the handle, sliding the tighter ring over it, and then screwing it down tight.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t92aiPLTZEU/YT5lQnfj2DI/AAAAAAAAPHI/1bFW_FcpFH0RmoNGqU47xsPs5Y5Cn-SiwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00436.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t92aiPLTZEU/YT5lQnfj2DI/AAAAAAAAPHI/1bFW_FcpFH0RmoNGqU47xsPs5Y5Cn-SiwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00436.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The saw blade is a "push saw" blade, and I believe it was designed to cut roots when digging, and was not really intended as a wood saw. The end of the saw blade is shaped into a flat blade screwdriver.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7vMxuoUIn6I/YT5lnY2xeyI/AAAAAAAAPHQ/3JgUMWodZiMJCuaRACLne6xo5Lqj_aWngCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00434.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7vMxuoUIn6I/YT5lnY2xeyI/AAAAAAAAPHQ/3JgUMWodZiMJCuaRACLne6xo5Lqj_aWngCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00434.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The screwdriver end of the saw blade is used to remove the screw that secures the tightening knob, or to adjust it's tension. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vYnSJoh9zgk/YT5l-lIK67I/AAAAAAAAPHY/81HeS9BPF6EeUWvjpse3eYodZDduSM5YQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00438.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vYnSJoh9zgk/YT5l-lIK67I/AAAAAAAAPHY/81HeS9BPF6EeUWvjpse3eYodZDduSM5YQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00438.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zq6-aN_tXyQ/YT5mqtmFMnI/AAAAAAAAPHo/pP8vw0oT7I01ER2Zd8jeNv65WzUDDAkzwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00441.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zq6-aN_tXyQ/YT5mqtmFMnI/AAAAAAAAPHo/pP8vw0oT7I01ER2Zd8jeNv65WzUDDAkzwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00441.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The saw blade is also meant to be a leverage tool to loosen the tightening knob if it becomes stuck from over tightening. To use it to break free the knob, it is placed into the two slots on the knob and then torque is applied. The flip side of this would be to use the blade to tighten the knob down extra tight, for "military grade digging".</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4oXn6H_WNA/YT5mWH_JsMI/AAAAAAAAPHg/K1XU1QDa20korg82TkAEL8WKOaG3dYfKgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00439.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4oXn6H_WNA/YT5mWH_JsMI/AAAAAAAAPHg/K1XU1QDa20korg82TkAEL8WKOaG3dYfKgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00439.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The Danish Army issues these shovels in a plastic "sleeve" that looks like one of the US-NATO style, plastic, tri-fold shovel carriers, but without any attachment clips, loops, etc., on the back. The Danish web equipment system has a "half-pouch" that is the same type as the UK uses. The shovel is placed into the plastic sleeve, then into the belt carrier. I have my eyes out for one of these sleeves and carriers........there is always something to look for! Here are a few excerpts from the Danish manual showing both the shovel and the carrier pouch.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yzafx001qJw/YT5nC_CWghI/AAAAAAAAPHw/2FHzEUOO7d0UJUDZFIHOPv-NW9NTWepjgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1196/Glock%2B2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1176" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yzafx001qJw/YT5nC_CWghI/AAAAAAAAPHw/2FHzEUOO7d0UJUDZFIHOPv-NW9NTWepjgCLcBGAsYHQ/w394-h400/Glock%2B2.jpg" width="394" /></a></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gsfctyAF-I/YT5nH9SshII/AAAAAAAAPH0/rwUXLvX9KDshNjbUEKaWF1_vmxhgMFOXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1181/Glock%2B1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1017" data-original-width="1181" height="345" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gsfctyAF-I/YT5nH9SshII/AAAAAAAAPH0/rwUXLvX9KDshNjbUEKaWF1_vmxhgMFOXgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h345/Glock%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dogjQRnVKh0/YT5nNC1a1NI/AAAAAAAAPH4/aOY9cDtziIg28K8Ex_rcVuVPMzmMs-scQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1258/Glock%2B3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1258" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dogjQRnVKh0/YT5nNC1a1NI/AAAAAAAAPH4/aOY9cDtziIg28K8Ex_rcVuVPMzmMs-scQCLcBGAsYHQ/w339-h400/Glock%2B3.jpg" width="339" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: large;">If you can't find one of the Danish Army sleeves and carrying pouches, then you can use one of the current US entrenching tool pouches, designed for the Gerber shovels. The Glock shovel fits it perfectly.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoluR0_7rak/YT5npyiTM2I/AAAAAAAAPII/27i2m-4wjIQ0FRh1BLA-b3PXfKYip6fUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00414.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoluR0_7rak/YT5npyiTM2I/AAAAAAAAPII/27i2m-4wjIQ0FRh1BLA-b3PXfKYip6fUQCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00414.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IodTFh6gl_g/YT5n7VhVizI/AAAAAAAAPIQ/A8gOV3PiSBUxEEjfTAcoKpklzhIqUqMAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00415.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IodTFh6gl_g/YT5n7VhVizI/AAAAAAAAPIQ/A8gOV3PiSBUxEEjfTAcoKpklzhIqUqMAQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00415.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: large;">As I uncover more information on these Model 96, Danish shovels (aka, Glock shovels), I'll post updates here on this blog post, so check back if you are interested.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Now let's take a closer look at this shovel.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfJDsZ13pCE/YT5oZgElp5I/AAAAAAAAPIY/7PeYGZw2pPsl2aSHgn7YQwY5PBGYzxMHACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00416.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfJDsZ13pCE/YT5oZgElp5I/AAAAAAAAPIY/7PeYGZw2pPsl2aSHgn7YQwY5PBGYzxMHACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00416.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YTT7yjiCB70/YT5ot6hqlbI/AAAAAAAAPIg/CwODSQA_YZs25lFw33R6e2Jz31ibVyg_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00417.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YTT7yjiCB70/YT5ot6hqlbI/AAAAAAAAPIg/CwODSQA_YZs25lFw33R6e2Jz31ibVyg_gCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00417.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w5aDMsmrZHg/YT5pCmUeFkI/AAAAAAAAPIo/o8DEedinnOgrx4BRpKQGom3eKOh7IUZ_QCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00428.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w5aDMsmrZHg/YT5pCmUeFkI/AAAAAAAAPIo/o8DEedinnOgrx4BRpKQGom3eKOh7IUZ_QCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00428.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n7nIzueI6ck/YT5pbdXqOTI/AAAAAAAAPIw/dkGFhqirb0Y53nRzVhtum_M8-BcJGn8wgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00429.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n7nIzueI6ck/YT5pbdXqOTI/AAAAAAAAPIw/dkGFhqirb0Y53nRzVhtum_M8-BcJGn8wgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00429.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JdrphJ-vs-4/YT5pvFuUONI/AAAAAAAAPI4/zcCN-ZXYMS0ihZmp0xzbesKtpBvQq4PKgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00430.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JdrphJ-vs-4/YT5pvFuUONI/AAAAAAAAPI4/zcCN-ZXYMS0ihZmp0xzbesKtpBvQq4PKgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00430.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-463Z3rjYh6k/YT5qBiBvAmI/AAAAAAAAPJA/77jrr27kj3ArEHC38imTZI_rUtiknRUjwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00431.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-463Z3rjYh6k/YT5qBiBvAmI/AAAAAAAAPJA/77jrr27kj3ArEHC38imTZI_rUtiknRUjwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00431.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRIp4aF5Fdo/YT5qWkACo3I/AAAAAAAAPJI/0jTSN9IlSPM25Ci0S2d37t5kUHEvuC1nACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00420.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRIp4aF5Fdo/YT5qWkACo3I/AAAAAAAAPJI/0jTSN9IlSPM25Ci0S2d37t5kUHEvuC1nACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00420.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aS8OymGx6dA/YT5qq1tX6BI/AAAAAAAAPJQ/4fr3B6WCOnMnB4nXjaxEk6LEI2-MSIUYACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00426.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aS8OymGx6dA/YT5qq1tX6BI/AAAAAAAAPJQ/4fr3B6WCOnMnB4nXjaxEk6LEI2-MSIUYACLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00426.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0t6O2gqVQis/YT5rBnws4GI/AAAAAAAAPJY/ZXn5KRGn8G8g_JjxskIitTW2YoSQt5pfQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00427.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0t6O2gqVQis/YT5rBnws4GI/AAAAAAAAPJY/ZXn5KRGn8G8g_JjxskIitTW2YoSQt5pfQCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00427.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5-ZoWKM84nA/YT5rWB0LqYI/AAAAAAAAPJg/36YXj96jEUcB1id41w_i6SHv-W_fvojggCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00424.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5-ZoWKM84nA/YT5rWB0LqYI/AAAAAAAAPJg/36YXj96jEUcB1id41w_i6SHv-W_fvojggCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00424.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdK0NOn3Mzk/YT5rtTL91SI/AAAAAAAAPJo/GXgbbGNqiL8R6OLCuxh_ZNtIxW9x6NpPACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00425.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdK0NOn3Mzk/YT5rtTL91SI/AAAAAAAAPJo/GXgbbGNqiL8R6OLCuxh_ZNtIxW9x6NpPACLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00425.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ynngwXXROOs/YT5sEfZkxtI/AAAAAAAAPJw/mJkAmu6H0t0VFBaXjuI9295ONHkoF7MKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00440.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ynngwXXROOs/YT5sEfZkxtI/AAAAAAAAPJw/mJkAmu6H0t0VFBaXjuI9295ONHkoF7MKQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00440.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U2Lk9Mngq1w/YT5sXu1QPbI/AAAAAAAAPJ4/-bQ6V4_UB-YAq-EyRSaIxZlS_JsVD1lrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00418.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U2Lk9Mngq1w/YT5sXu1QPbI/AAAAAAAAPJ4/-bQ6V4_UB-YAq-EyRSaIxZlS_JsVD1lrwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00418.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-47086088294622796322021-01-27T17:13:00.003-08:002023-05-03T06:48:55.923-07:00M-1910, US T-Handle Shovel Cover, W. L. Dumas Mfg. Co., 1943, WW2, Transitional Model, Restoration & Repair, Model 1910 Entrenching Tool, Dean and Sherk Company<p><span style="font-size: large;">Today we'll be taking a look at an interesting, US, T-Handle shovel cover that recently picked up, and restored.</span></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5DZoTaUseE/YBChKPmfcuI/AAAAAAAAO5M/a28_EzRdolgU5wBYeWN08uJu6v0TR0bEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00160.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5DZoTaUseE/YBChKPmfcuI/AAAAAAAAO5M/a28_EzRdolgU5wBYeWN08uJu6v0TR0bEwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00160.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I have had my eye out for another T-Handle cover to pair with my 1942 dated Mountain Troop shovel cover, but finding one that is in good condition, and at a good price, can be a real challenge. I recently spotted one paired with a WW1 vintage, T-Handle shovel. The price for the pair was great, probably because of a damaged buckle on the cover. I'm always up for a restoration and repair project, so I picked it up at a bargain price. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-mbPQsn1DM/YBChex9YTCI/AAAAAAAAO5U/q1HGPqLr4-QltQL4f7-sbn0I2gF6R4UmgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00162.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-mbPQsn1DM/YBChex9YTCI/AAAAAAAAO5U/q1HGPqLr4-QltQL4f7-sbn0I2gF6R4UmgCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00162.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">You can read about my M-1910 Mountain Troop T-Handle cover here:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/06/us-model-1910-shovel-cover-m1910.html">http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/06/us-model-1910-shovel-cover-m1910.html</a></span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This cover is what I would describe as a "<i>transitional cover</i>". All of the pre-WW2 canvas gear was made in Khaki colored canvas and webbing. The use of Khaki continued into the early WW2 war years. At the start of WW2, the Army officially changed the color to OD #3 (a bit more of a green-tan color). The transition from Khaki to OD #3 was made over a period time. As the old Khaki material was used up, the new OD #3 fabrics were added in. It is during this "overlap time", where both Khaki and OD#3 cloth is sometimes seen mixed together on canvas gear. </span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This particular T-Handle cover comes from this multi-colored, "transitional period". The cover is made from a mix of Khaki and OD #3 fabrics.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The main body of the cover is OD #3, but the rear belt hanger tab is Khaki, as well as the buckle strap on the front. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kUfcg8DOec/YBCixuVJHII/AAAAAAAAO5o/r39wcxbPDsIeuklk7VJy52JdX6u6wGAOACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00140.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kUfcg8DOec/YBCixuVJHII/AAAAAAAAO5o/r39wcxbPDsIeuklk7VJy52JdX6u6wGAOACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00140.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The long, strap is OD #3. So this cover was made in the narrow transitional time frame when both fabrics were being used by the manufacturer.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nm2z7bDSUlE/YBCiBSKPZfI/AAAAAAAAO5c/dyTDLPXQwCgzNdsAjHPPvxIocNk89PL4QCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00150.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nm2z7bDSUlE/YBCiBSKPZfI/AAAAAAAAO5c/dyTDLPXQwCgzNdsAjHPPvxIocNk89PL4QCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00150.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Three variations of color, all on this one cover.</span></b><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;">This cover is dated 1943, and was made by the W. L. Dumas Manufacturing Company.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YA6_eWILAiQ/YBCjJH3ocxI/AAAAAAAAO5w/pL_CdX3kQrofHgg6ERXelj2ohe7CVKybACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00169.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YA6_eWILAiQ/YBCjJH3ocxI/AAAAAAAAO5w/pL_CdX3kQrofHgg6ERXelj2ohe7CVKybACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00169.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">During WW2, there were two variations of the Model 1910 shovel covers. One was the standard, ground troop version, with the belt hanger at the top end of the cover, and a "mountain troop" version, with the hanger at the lower end . This cover is the standard, ground troop version, with the hanger at the top end.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rX6MhbcohpE/YBCjgdGm8fI/AAAAAAAAO54/xVP3PjoTEcsPPVnn-qm17oUxB-OfH6vOACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00139.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rX6MhbcohpE/YBCjgdGm8fI/AAAAAAAAO54/xVP3PjoTEcsPPVnn-qm17oUxB-OfH6vOACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00139.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Mountain troop on the left, ground troop on the right.</span></b><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;">As you may recall, from the first part of this posting, I said that the cover needed "<i>restoration and repair</i>" work. Here is what that entailed. The cover originally had a cast metal, double bar, tightener-buckle. At some point, the cast metal buckle snapped in half, as they were known to do. These double bar tighteners were made in cast metal, stamped brass, and stamped steel. The various packs and covers from WW2 can be found with any of the three versions of tighteners, it just depended on their availability to the manufacturers at any given time. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rTFg6ZLuHR0/YBCkZAHnX9I/AAAAAAAAO6A/tgxWT6w9Ok4i3Dgsg-Wji3EQNDfMIKCPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00130.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rTFg6ZLuHR0/YBCkZAHnX9I/AAAAAAAAO6A/tgxWT6w9Ok4i3Dgsg-Wji3EQNDfMIKCPQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00130.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Since this cover had a broken, partial tightener, I needed to track down an original buckle. This is not quite as easy as it sounds. I did not want to cannibalize an old pack or cover, so the hunt was on for a loose one. As luck would have it, I found a shop in Georgia that happened to have a whole box of loose buckles! The seller said that they had been removed from damaged USMC and US Army packs from WW2. This was exactly what I had been looking for, so I picked up a handful (it's always good to be prepared for future restorations!). All of these old buckles were the blackened brass type. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">To make the repair, I used original WW2 issue components. I headed down to the bunker shop and pulled out a spool of original, WW2 vintage, OD #3, heavy thread. I carefully removed the stitching on the web strap, back just far enough to remove the damaged cast buckle. I slipped on the original brass buckle, and then carefully sewed the web strap back on, using the original OD #3 thread. I followed the original stitch holes and stitch pattern. The repair-restoration is as close as you can come to original. The only thing not authentic and original, is the date the repair was made! The repair is nearly undetectable, and all the components, including thread, are original.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCKSkVQCNpc/YBCkxxz-P-I/AAAAAAAAO6I/N3hZ0b_tUEUxBEY7ENaofTN8Bxl--XI9wCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00132.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCKSkVQCNpc/YBCkxxz-P-I/AAAAAAAAO6I/N3hZ0b_tUEUxBEY7ENaofTN8Bxl--XI9wCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00132.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The thread that I used was manufactured by the <b>Dean and Sherk Company</b>, of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The <b>Dean and Sherk Company</b> made military threads in the 1930's, 1940's, and into the 1950's, before they went out of business. The label on the spool of thread I have is a WW2 label, listing the military specifications and descriptions. It was a lucky find at a local yard sale quite a few years ago.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDDufXNiVlw/YBClIF0jzVI/AAAAAAAAO6Q/dwXjJAZCysQcM085Eog4eHlpb7vw5wwBgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00149.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDDufXNiVlw/YBClIF0jzVI/AAAAAAAAO6Q/dwXjJAZCysQcM085Eog4eHlpb7vw5wwBgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00149.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Before we get into the album photos of this cover, let's take a look at both of my T-Handle covers, side by side, so you can see the variations in colors and fabric textures. It is interesting to note that the "US" stamps are slightly different as well. The earlier, 1942 dated cover, is Khaki, and the fabric is a lighter weight. The OD #3 cover is dated 1943, and has much heavier canvas for it's construction.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RE7t4o1hLdw/YBClemFF3cI/AAAAAAAAO6Y/hI9Zr0p5mrcBK9LnT0OGM7K1CuNSHfskQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00138.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RE7t4o1hLdw/YBClemFF3cI/AAAAAAAAO6Y/hI9Zr0p5mrcBK9LnT0OGM7K1CuNSHfskQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00138.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MF_IgEu13vU/YBCnIsS6ChI/AAAAAAAAO6g/UJN-BoD78GE3Ix70xFJR-WHDArvsTF1oQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00155.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MF_IgEu13vU/YBCnIsS6ChI/AAAAAAAAO6g/UJN-BoD78GE3Ix70xFJR-WHDArvsTF1oQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00155.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OZXn0XuGld4/YBCndOgn39I/AAAAAAAAO6o/oSaP1CvPtuIyWC-kM1SZkzEtHCzA6UTPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00139.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OZXn0XuGld4/YBCndOgn39I/AAAAAAAAO6o/oSaP1CvPtuIyWC-kM1SZkzEtHCzA6UTPwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00139.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Now lets take a closer look at this Model 1910, 1943, T-Handle shovel cover.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JAAyvF0X0I/YBCn-h9phXI/AAAAAAAAO6w/qOAP4TgtaaMcbq34-_Txpav9GwTXWu8VwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00165.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JAAyvF0X0I/YBCn-h9phXI/AAAAAAAAO6w/qOAP4TgtaaMcbq34-_Txpav9GwTXWu8VwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00165.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBW72KeecmA/YBCoTeKN5jI/AAAAAAAAO64/IxOyA5bie_sWT_DNCCDVkKsBWAzweobdACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00166.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBW72KeecmA/YBCoTeKN5jI/AAAAAAAAO64/IxOyA5bie_sWT_DNCCDVkKsBWAzweobdACLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00166.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xLfEk7SBIfk/YBCol2uGIDI/AAAAAAAAO7A/v7xPgc7IT1YNmBeSlhNbDjuWgwnRj-6KgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00168.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xLfEk7SBIfk/YBCol2uGIDI/AAAAAAAAO7A/v7xPgc7IT1YNmBeSlhNbDjuWgwnRj-6KgCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00168.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDsQskJQTs0/YBIKh2m88cI/AAAAAAAAO7I/9dRA7xyxJYslbWaa8GfUq_eH0UQm8wTNACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00171.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDsQskJQTs0/YBIKh2m88cI/AAAAAAAAO7I/9dRA7xyxJYslbWaa8GfUq_eH0UQm8wTNACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00171.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mA4rvcHluvc/YBIK3SDrdWI/AAAAAAAAO7Q/Loxk4FiAArQX1wRMQUIJgZ9VxNgVKEJjwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00167.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mA4rvcHluvc/YBIK3SDrdWI/AAAAAAAAO7Q/Loxk4FiAArQX1wRMQUIJgZ9VxNgVKEJjwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00167.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-btBL3JinMzg/YBILLoOYr-I/AAAAAAAAO7Y/ZNs5LjU-FYwHep8NVfj0ezJ8loT6PUY2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00169.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-btBL3JinMzg/YBILLoOYr-I/AAAAAAAAO7Y/ZNs5LjU-FYwHep8NVfj0ezJ8loT6PUY2ACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00169.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZJYtwVgd_M/YBILhykvFeI/AAAAAAAAO7g/rta6hO7HyK8flozJpgoHP6vnWGfmKssUACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00175.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZJYtwVgd_M/YBILhykvFeI/AAAAAAAAO7g/rta6hO7HyK8flozJpgoHP6vnWGfmKssUACLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00175.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kh5Dhl5LJxI/YBIL2clPVEI/AAAAAAAAO7o/x9YIQnh0Q-c_bgtC0nhVFpP9eo4ZTZwMwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00176.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kh5Dhl5LJxI/YBIL2clPVEI/AAAAAAAAO7o/x9YIQnh0Q-c_bgtC0nhVFpP9eo4ZTZwMwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00176.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MU8gETyKZiQ/YBIMLI3JELI/AAAAAAAAO7w/cOySmjK632EtqYU9nQoPz7RCcpaIS3nAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00177.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MU8gETyKZiQ/YBIMLI3JELI/AAAAAAAAO7w/cOySmjK632EtqYU9nQoPz7RCcpaIS3nAQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00177.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-31169350306365610582020-12-14T16:10:00.001-08:002020-12-14T16:10:57.766-08:00British General Service Shovel, GS, Dated 1954 with Broad Arrow Stamp, C. T. Skelton & Co. Sheffield, Suez Crisis, Second Arab-Israeli War, Pioneer, Sapper, Engineer, T-Handle<p> <span style="font-size: large;">Well, as promised, here is the third shovel in my recently acquired British General Service trio.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RS06lvhsR1M/X9f1CPwGZPI/AAAAAAAAO1w/e-5xYINALlkti6hhb0IfcNeV47Cjmp_xwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00063.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RS06lvhsR1M/X9f1CPwGZPI/AAAAAAAAO1w/e-5xYINALlkti6hhb0IfcNeV47Cjmp_xwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00063.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is yet another distinct version of the GS shovels. The previous two were from WW2, and this one is a post-war version.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8T63oVF7wfs/X9f1VFFtc2I/AAAAAAAAO14/6s39G_tBDOc6KU52A3h7nknDO8KieSHnACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00065.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8T63oVF7wfs/X9f1VFFtc2I/AAAAAAAAO14/6s39G_tBDOc6KU52A3h7nknDO8KieSHnACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00065.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">You can read about the two previous, WW2 shovels here, as well as the history of the GS shovel style:</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/11/british-general-service-shovel-gs-ww2.html">http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/11/british-general-service-shovel-gs-ww2.html</a></span></b></i></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/12/british-general-service-shovel-gs-ww2.html">http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/12/british-general-service-shovel-gs-ww2.html</a> </span></b></i></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This third shovel is dated 1954, and was made by the <i><b>C. T Skelton & Company</b></i> of Sheffield, England. There is an excellent company history here: </span></p><p> <i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://trowelcollector.blogspot.com/2014/12/history-of-ct-skelton-co-tool-maker.html">http://trowelcollector.blogspot.com/2014/12/history-of-ct-skelton-co-tool-maker.html</a></span></b></i></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzbBJT-a44s/X9f10prurnI/AAAAAAAAO2A/487oa2b3dSgOfRIb7nOlDGmNJ9U2GbrrACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00071.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzbBJT-a44s/X9f10prurnI/AAAAAAAAO2A/487oa2b3dSgOfRIb7nOlDGmNJ9U2GbrrACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00071.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> The shovel is stamped with the British Broad Arrow acceptance stamp and also has an ID number of some sort stamped: <i><b>H.2353</b></i> I have no idea what the number means, but it appears to have been stamped at the same time as the date and maker's stamp.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fLSdbohdnQc/X9f2IB4nMiI/AAAAAAAAO2I/VoR-EbFe3yoZoBcLUg4ut1ggGvgPTWkyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00070.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fLSdbohdnQc/X9f2IB4nMiI/AAAAAAAAO2I/VoR-EbFe3yoZoBcLUg4ut1ggGvgPTWkyQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00070.JPG" width="400" /></a> <br /></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The handle is a T-Handle, with a metal strap reinforcement. The wooden "T" has a a slight curve to it.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xINMmK7D5ag/X9f2b3sdMEI/AAAAAAAAO2Q/gqniQRaOeGEg-uHdKfaMxgEbTxAjvsQUACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00064.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xINMmK7D5ag/X9f2b3sdMEI/AAAAAAAAO2Q/gqniQRaOeGEg-uHdKfaMxgEbTxAjvsQUACLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00064.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The blade has a welded front and back, forming an integral socket for the handle.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDlT_yxfAms/X9f253v-nxI/AAAAAAAAO2Y/1aH2AhBrtwoa0Xumzr678J4XAmL6oYBSACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00075.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDlT_yxfAms/X9f253v-nxI/AAAAAAAAO2Y/1aH2AhBrtwoa0Xumzr678J4XAmL6oYBSACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00075.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Originally the blade was painted black, with the paint extending up the wood handle a short distance. There is still a bit of the original black paint visible, here and there. Around the T-Handle, there are traces of a lighter, and brighter, green (not OD military green).</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q7aPKcTktvE/X9f3OjhwsmI/AAAAAAAAO2g/EssUiFOySjEZhD3RmjJv27C04vJiBHQkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00079.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q7aPKcTktvE/X9f3OjhwsmI/AAAAAAAAO2g/EssUiFOySjEZhD3RmjJv27C04vJiBHQkwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00079.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Although this shovel is dated 1954, it is identical to other shovels produced during WW2. As I mentioned in previous posts, the GS shovels remained virtually unchanged for years and years.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In 1956, the British Army went to war in Egypt, with the Israelis and the French. They joined forces against Egypt, in what was called the <i><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suez_Crisis">Second Arab-Israeli War</a></b></i>, or <i><b>Suez Crisis</b></i>. This shovel may very well have served there, since it is dated 1954. Here is a photo of a group of British Royal Engineers, on the beach, during the war. The shovel in the photo is a GS shovel.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kErbAEFnao0/X9f0tozSEjI/AAAAAAAAO1o/y3whbCNY2Hc-ol0LekvFpYZsFrHzS89eACLcBGAsYHQ/s768/Brit%2BArmy%2BSuez%2BCrisis%2B1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="562" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kErbAEFnao0/X9f0tozSEjI/AAAAAAAAO1o/y3whbCNY2Hc-ol0LekvFpYZsFrHzS89eACLcBGAsYHQ/w293-h400/Brit%2BArmy%2BSuez%2BCrisis%2B1.jpg" width="293" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Overall this is a very well made, and very solid shovel. The blade on this one is exceptionally well made, and quite thick and reinforced near the socket shaft. There are two small cracks on the upper edge, that are a testament to the hard use this shovel was put to.</span><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RZhJPGugfPY/X9f3zzHiG2I/AAAAAAAAO2s/bgDLktMjTEUYBa9zXRq4ClwleMVqm5odACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00089.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RZhJPGugfPY/X9f3zzHiG2I/AAAAAAAAO2s/bgDLktMjTEUYBa9zXRq4ClwleMVqm5odACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00089.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">If you haven't read up on these shovels yet, pop back to the previous two blog posts and review their history. Now on to the photo album. Enjoy!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Ih6nqSYpg/X9f47a6bK_I/AAAAAAAAO20/aCSN5fxynaswWSAbe_f9EUfqnGBKQEh5wCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00066.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Ih6nqSYpg/X9f47a6bK_I/AAAAAAAAO20/aCSN5fxynaswWSAbe_f9EUfqnGBKQEh5wCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00066.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuRB7QmheZQ/X9f5MVHFsXI/AAAAAAAAO28/9yTGD5-gV8knRmUMwXkEFWmfeTK5CGOygCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00067.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuRB7QmheZQ/X9f5MVHFsXI/AAAAAAAAO28/9yTGD5-gV8knRmUMwXkEFWmfeTK5CGOygCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00067.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSaQW0JKo0k/X9f5eesltRI/AAAAAAAAO3E/rK6lYS7tXtYaj9EzIOgLBxi-wNEhWHp6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00083.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSaQW0JKo0k/X9f5eesltRI/AAAAAAAAO3E/rK6lYS7tXtYaj9EzIOgLBxi-wNEhWHp6wCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00083.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JiFZzp911v8/X9f5vljttMI/AAAAAAAAO3M/eKvIVJdtzLkpfdPDGm3C4N_j2VTKP1zNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00082.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JiFZzp911v8/X9f5vljttMI/AAAAAAAAO3M/eKvIVJdtzLkpfdPDGm3C4N_j2VTKP1zNgCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00082.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I_l1h_HxPGo/X9f6AIZSDWI/AAAAAAAAO3U/NVMZDxkr9KkH0Z97JXGmKG2A8hKsiD8DgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00068.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-glzWV8hn0no/X9f8oB74BWI/AAAAAAAAO4Q/dJjoqrcHREEe17HW9qcYdzkYfPndgSeIwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00071.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FXI3HPCANjs/X9f88Mcx6GI/AAAAAAAAO4Y/uxr-pn0Ink4HJsJiYE3WE5DUTjW1nnFigCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FXI3HPCANjs/X9f88Mcx6GI/AAAAAAAAO4Y/uxr-pn0Ink4HJsJiYE3WE5DUTjW1nnFigCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00079.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MgXux-rzlgM/X9f9OKqqUCI/AAAAAAAAO4g/63ftsMPSSpcHlkBQt79Y15o20sp-a5vXQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MgXux-rzlgM/X9f9OKqqUCI/AAAAAAAAO4g/63ftsMPSSpcHlkBQt79Y15o20sp-a5vXQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00081.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cm3J7ajx-H0/X9f9fJFQ56I/AAAAAAAAO4o/4kdV7vkI1HIDDmFMyRzJif7Ks6Nha1dvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/DSC00080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cm3J7ajx-H0/X9f9fJFQ56I/AAAAAAAAO4o/4kdV7vkI1HIDDmFMyRzJif7Ks6Nha1dvwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00080.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-41103117449931630082020-12-09T13:54:00.004-08:002020-12-09T13:59:58.653-08:00British General Service Shovel, GS, WW2 Issue, Dated 1943 with Broad Arrow Stamp, 1940's Pioneer, Sapper, Engineer, T-Handle<p><span style="font-size: large;"> Well, as promised, here is the second British General Service Shovel in the grouping. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NEeEmdWYmNc/X9E_Unu8ulI/AAAAAAAAOzA/TX1VtyisPRAiOER9WzTuOzFpP9xL9rN7wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00030.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NEeEmdWYmNc/X9E_Unu8ulI/AAAAAAAAOzA/TX1VtyisPRAiOER9WzTuOzFpP9xL9rN7wCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00030.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;">Before we get into the details of this shovel, you can read up on the history of these shovels in my last post. You will see another example, and slightly different style, of WW2, British General Service Shovel, as well as a few photos of these shovels in "action".<br /></span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/11/british-general-service-shovel-gs-ww2.html">http://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/11/british-general-service-shovel-gs-ww2.html</a></span></b></i></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This second shovel is dated 1943, and has a makers mark that is only partial.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O65gqdu7QEY/X9FBmgix-EI/AAAAAAAAOzI/UlF-1Wo4idsBziEjMBdS822bEimiB_omACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00035.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O65gqdu7QEY/X9FBmgix-EI/AAAAAAAAOzI/UlF-1Wo4idsBziEjMBdS822bEimiB_omACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00035.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The date is a "partial strike", so only half of it was actually stamped. The good thing is that it was the lower half of all the date numerals, so determining the year was pretty easy. I was not so lucky with the maker. Unless I can find another shovel with a clear stamping that matches, I may never know who made this shovel. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wlT5wXjX56Y/X9FB6JZRRFI/AAAAAAAAOzQ/6pl9K5anjJsZnUatdyR2gDW1oMMvROBWACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00044.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wlT5wXjX56Y/X9FB6JZRRFI/AAAAAAAAOzQ/6pl9K5anjJsZnUatdyR2gDW1oMMvROBWACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00044.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The shovel has the British Broad Arrow acceptance stamp, so it was definitely military issue. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This is an interesting variation of the General Service British Shovels. It is constructed nearly identically as the M-1910, US, T-Handle entrenching tools! The blade is welded, front and back to form an integral socket for the wooden handle. The two open spots on either side of the handle, have been filled with wooden plugs. This is the identical construction method used on the US, M-1910 entrenching tools. I'll be looking into that similarity further, but for now, here are a few, side-by-side comparison photos of my 1943 dated US, M-1910 entrenching tool, and the 1943 dated, British General Service Shovel.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNUu8ojuKFk/X9FCOjyKw9I/AAAAAAAAOzY/A3Oz8Q_F3ykG--AeyUXR4PtA5sEvd4DwgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00047.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNUu8ojuKFk/X9FCOjyKw9I/AAAAAAAAOzY/A3Oz8Q_F3ykG--AeyUXR4PtA5sEvd4DwgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00047.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oELXVYS2Bl4/X9FCsKxJgDI/AAAAAAAAOzk/lPBA4V-lgrkS-rE9RuQtZbHqJi64SjDGgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00049.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oELXVYS2Bl4/X9FCsKxJgDI/AAAAAAAAOzk/lPBA4V-lgrkS-rE9RuQtZbHqJi64SjDGgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00049.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JojUIsPxf_0/X9FC89tCKqI/AAAAAAAAOzw/RruYJaoiiWgMz0SWeIsYgoaYcLAWJH5AACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00050.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JojUIsPxf_0/X9FC89tCKqI/AAAAAAAAOzw/RruYJaoiiWgMz0SWeIsYgoaYcLAWJH5AACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: large;">This GS shovel is basically "as-found". I did a light cleaning of the rusted blade areas with a wire brush, and then applied a coat of danish oil over the entire shovel. I leave the original patina whenever possible, and always go for conservation over restoration whenever I can.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Since I covered the history of these shovels in my last blog post, let's jump right into the photo album. Enjoy!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uRniCLbc_T4/X9FDNZ-TS3I/AAAAAAAAOz4/9_N_N0FqtGAFvlIJh1I8e4tqKMyW6YO8gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00031.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uRniCLbc_T4/X9FDNZ-TS3I/AAAAAAAAOz4/9_N_N0FqtGAFvlIJh1I8e4tqKMyW6YO8gCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00031.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6HVZnOOYBus/X9FDa8T3VXI/AAAAAAAAOz8/ijouRSPbwfcuag9N3mCRJBUaYqG5Mp_RQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00032.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6HVZnOOYBus/X9FDa8T3VXI/AAAAAAAAOz8/ijouRSPbwfcuag9N3mCRJBUaYqG5Mp_RQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00032.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukobHjqbC-w/X9FHh7NBltI/AAAAAAAAO1g/0-lv6H27Z20jDrKNtfhEWDiXoKUgwo4vACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00039.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukobHjqbC-w/X9FHh7NBltI/AAAAAAAAO1g/0-lv6H27Z20jDrKNtfhEWDiXoKUgwo4vACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00039.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-40980067152253044172020-11-28T09:48:00.003-08:002020-11-28T10:36:09.881-08:00British General Service Shovel, GS, WW2 Issue, T-Handle Restoration with Broad Arrow Stamp, 1940's Pioneer, Sapper, Engineer<p><span style="font-size: large;"> I had the rare opportunity to pick up a trio of British General Service Shovels from a seller in the US. All three were slightly different, with one of them damaged. The price was amazing, so I bought all three! One is dated 1943, one 1954, and the third is undated, but Broad Arrow stamped.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEHU9ZsHu0I/X8GYpSH_lPI/AAAAAAAAOvM/aW80Mq3fCbEB4dAKW2qBdcz8jdxO7yHgwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201029_153050.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEHU9ZsHu0I/X8GYpSH_lPI/AAAAAAAAOvM/aW80Mq3fCbEB4dAKW2qBdcz8jdxO7yHgwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/20201029_153050.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;">I'll be showing off each one separately in the next three blog postings. For today, we'll start with the undated, damaged shovel. I'll also show the restoration of the damaged handle.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P22GsrUAlek/X8GZkGanBSI/AAAAAAAAOvU/iYBFaTc8PYERHqzgeQnHNBLLbPl2UWawQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201029_153741.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P22GsrUAlek/X8GZkGanBSI/AAAAAAAAOvU/iYBFaTc8PYERHqzgeQnHNBLLbPl2UWawQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/20201029_153741.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This style of British, GS, or General Service Shovel, was the standard issue, full-sized shovel that saw use from WW1 (or possibly before), through the 1950's. The GS Shovels were found in nearly every theater of operation, in service with almost all units, and mounted on nearly every British vehicle. In addition to their mundane, uses around camps and bases, they were the preferred combat entrenching tool carried by the soldiers in the field during WW2.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Before we get too far along though, here is a shot of the restored GS Shovel that is pictured above. I'll go over the restoration, a bit later in the blog post.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BgMmEWrRkVM/X8KIGmgFr5I/AAAAAAAAOxw/PaXhynHujtcBS-GRU-_hoso30aXjAfT3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00021.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BgMmEWrRkVM/X8KIGmgFr5I/AAAAAAAAOxw/PaXhynHujtcBS-GRU-_hoso30aXjAfT3ACLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00021.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The standard issue, British, entrenching tool during WW2, was the Pattern 1939 spade, and then the Pattern 1937, "combo-tool". Both of these tools were very unpopular with the troops, and as a consequence, the field soldiers, unofficially, adopted the GS Shovel as a substitute. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In many of the old photos, it is common to see the smaller, official Pattern 1937 tools being carried on the belt, with a full sized, GS Shovel carried in the pack, or tucked cross-wise in the front belt. Basically, if the soldier needed to dig a hole, the GS Shovel could be counted on to actually get the job done, unlike the diminutive Pattern 1937 tools. There was also the belief that the heavier, and larger, steel blade of the GS Shovel offered a bit of "armor plate" protection when carried (an extra, and potentially lifesaving bonus, in the soldier's eyes!). </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vGnv5VaND1A/X8GXpJ2kt1I/AAAAAAAAOu4/rDc0DX1DGlg0JOXJGnYwe9PpCvt8pcpmQCLcBGAsYHQ/s800/large_000000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="765" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vGnv5VaND1A/X8GXpJ2kt1I/AAAAAAAAOu4/rDc0DX1DGlg0JOXJGnYwe9PpCvt8pcpmQCLcBGAsYHQ/w383-h400/large_000000.jpg" width="383" /></a></div> <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKEOvln_3Ag/X8GX7DzltmI/AAAAAAAAOvA/UJXOU-_FsnUVgTPANZPc7Z8V6W22gZmdACLcBGAsYHQ/s699/etool10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="597" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKEOvln_3Ag/X8GX7DzltmI/AAAAAAAAOvA/UJXOU-_FsnUVgTPANZPc7Z8V6W22gZmdACLcBGAsYHQ/w341-h400/etool10.jpg" width="341" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KpAOvUySrA/X8KX8A98wdI/AAAAAAAAOyo/ryrqR-3ZCEokxkJOgcHE5EMgmiL4aWlXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s275/Brit%2BShovel%2Bin%2BField.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="209" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KpAOvUySrA/X8KX8A98wdI/AAAAAAAAOyo/ryrqR-3ZCEokxkJOgcHE5EMgmiL4aWlXwCLcBGAsYHQ/w304-h400/Brit%2BShovel%2Bin%2BField.jpg" width="304" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In 1958, the British Army adopted a new entrenching tool, the Pattern 1958 Light Infantry Shovel. This was a GS Shovel with a slightly shorter handle (29 inches), with a hole drilled through, near the T-handle. The hole was for mounting it on a carry-stud, on the Pattern 58 web harness.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">You can read more about the Pattern 1958, short handle shovel, here: <b><a href="https://talesfromthesupplydepot.blog/2016/05/09/short-general-service-shovel/">https://talesfromthesupplydepot.blog/2016/05/09/short-general-service-shovel/</a></b></span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The GS Shovels are still used by the British Army, but I believe they may be a slightly different style.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">From the beginning, the GS Shovels were basically a civilian, T-handle shovel, that had been accepted into British Military service. The military shovels all had a British Broad Arrow stamp. The civilian shovels are missing this stamp, but are otherwise the same.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The British military specifications for the GS Shovel, call for a blade that is 8 inches across. There was another British shovel called the Round Edge Shovel, or RE Shovel, that had a blade that was more rounded and 10 inches across. To save weight, the sides of the RE Shovel were trimmed straight, shaving almost a pound off of the weight. The resulting, lighter, shovel became the GS Shovel. You can read more about the wider RE Shovel here: <b> <a href="https://talesfromthesupplydepot.blog/2017/10/17/ww1-royal-engineers-shovel/">https://talesfromthesupplydepot.blog/2017/10/17/ww1-royal-engineers-shovel/</a></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">During WW2, there were quite a number of slight variations of GS Shovels. All handles and shafts were made of wood, but some had reinforcing metal straps over the T-Handle, and some did not. Some of the "T's" were slightly curved, and some were straight. I think that basically, if it was a T-handle shovel, that fell within the blade dimensions, and overall dimensions, it was accepted into service, without all needing to be exactly the same. There were even slight variations in the metal blade construction. In fact, these shovels were made by literally hundreds of manufacturers during WW2. Some were well established shovel makers, and some were smaller shops and factories that only made the shovels during the war. Some shovels were dated, with manufacturers marks and names, and some were unmarked, with only the Broad Arrow stamp.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Now that we have covered some of the history and specifics of these General Service Shovels, let's take a closer look at this first of three, GS Shovels that I have.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This particular shovel has only one marking. It is stamped with the Broad Arrow acceptance stamp. There is no date or manufacturer's name.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">These WW2 vintage shovels are also painted black on the metal blade, and up the wood handle a short distance. </span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is the typical, WW2 style shovel, and almost certainly dates to WW2 due to it's rougher construction and the fact that it is unmarked and undated. These unmarked and undated examples are nearly all from WW2, and most likely were made by smaller contractors. It is just a guess, but I believe these more basic, and unmarked shovels, may have been produced later in the war. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">You can see the Broad Arrow stamp in the photo.</span><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wHJC7HaMjYE/X8Gh8u0yLWI/AAAAAAAAOwE/GLYtSD2uThwYWz3GZ3jufj8LIsNioDXSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201117_153642.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wHJC7HaMjYE/X8Gh8u0yLWI/AAAAAAAAOwE/GLYtSD2uThwYWz3GZ3jufj8LIsNioDXSgCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/20201117_153642.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">When I received the shovel, the T-handle was missing. The handle had snapped off at the base of the T-handle, diagonally down the main shaft. The top edge of the shaft, where it butted up to the T-handle was still present on one side, so I was certain as to the original length of the shaft.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K8eYqSSlBxg/X8Gi02-MZ1I/AAAAAAAAOwM/heqlD3jfnlQ_Z6r3-Na5Ictuem6DB-qeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201029_153211.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K8eYqSSlBxg/X8Gi02-MZ1I/AAAAAAAAOwM/heqlD3jfnlQ_Z6r3-Na5Ictuem6DB-qeQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/20201029_153211.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;"> After photographing the shovel in it's original, damaged state, I headed down to the bunker to restore it back to its former glory (well, as close as possible!).</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Here is the basic process I followed to restore the handle. To make the repair, I cleaned up the break surface, by making a clean, straight, diagonal cut. I duplicated this angle on a new piece of handle shaft, and glued the two together. After gluing, I shaped the grafted portion to match the original shaft. Next I drilled and installed a long, brass, wood screw, from top to bottom, inside the wood shaft. This serves to reinforce the glued joint internally. After the screw was installed, I carved and shaped the top of the shaft to accept the T-Handle. I then made a T-handle and installed it on the carved shaft, pinned everything in place, and finished the new, bare wood with stain.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Here is a side-by-side photo of the repaired handle next to another WW2, British T-handle shovel (before stain). The left shovel is a WW2 vintage GS shovel, and the right shovel is the repaired shovel.</span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Arv68l5aVg/X8GffUOrsBI/AAAAAAAAOvk/hcpSsXg7izINTG1TXYNPJ6an00hwGmdGgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201117_144223.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Arv68l5aVg/X8GffUOrsBI/AAAAAAAAOvk/hcpSsXg7izINTG1TXYNPJ6an00hwGmdGgCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/20201117_144223.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;">I finished up the repair with several coats of stain, and then coated the entire handle with Danish Oil. The final color is still a bit off, so I will have to do a bit more matching later. It is very difficult to color match new wood to the original old, and weathered, wood, in this type of repair. It will never be a perfect match, but it will do just fine for display. This is what I consider a "museum restoration".</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j6SamYGkTUE/X8GjImy3zHI/AAAAAAAAOwU/qd-miujhcyQOded7u0v2SZahfDjIhbrIACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00016.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j6SamYGkTUE/X8GjImy3zHI/AAAAAAAAOwU/qd-miujhcyQOded7u0v2SZahfDjIhbrIACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Here is the finished product. Let's take a look at the fully restored, WW2 vintage, General Service Shovel.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9X6vtI_9vX0/X8J8D9t1ZCI/AAAAAAAAOwc/x61Nj9JHwkA2MP-UZwt7Q0zKtCQ-KqMswCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00021.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9X6vtI_9vX0/X8J8D9t1ZCI/AAAAAAAAOwc/x61Nj9JHwkA2MP-UZwt7Q0zKtCQ-KqMswCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00021.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FXDO5AO25cc/X8J8Nycv7KI/AAAAAAAAOwk/aPZvDzC3I7EBTX09zMpa0mDLCe-iU9JIgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00022.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FXDO5AO25cc/X8J8Nycv7KI/AAAAAAAAOwk/aPZvDzC3I7EBTX09zMpa0mDLCe-iU9JIgCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00022.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_WFrjf32XAg/X8KJL2q_1dI/AAAAAAAAOyI/WSMPYTsZd4UoJ_pnFPbJMLXMhm_I72UZgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/20201117_153436.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2xk29AZ8TyI/X8KJdrqF-8I/AAAAAAAAOyQ/nWDND3wYA-EAv84UtQJ8PUUw-38v_UElwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201117_153625.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2xk29AZ8TyI/X8KJdrqF-8I/AAAAAAAAOyQ/nWDND3wYA-EAv84UtQJ8PUUw-38v_UElwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/20201117_153625.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Xv8iBFj4LI/X8KJ3AD4fiI/AAAAAAAAOyY/oc9PpkEDPCwPdUy--QtwQ_WiNjcoDdYqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201117_153447.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Xv8iBFj4LI/X8KJ3AD4fiI/AAAAAAAAOyY/oc9PpkEDPCwPdUy--QtwQ_WiNjcoDdYqwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/20201117_153447.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-veamAf7OITo/X8KKJsPeZEI/AAAAAAAAOyg/C9J5q9KzmmMdv11eeqY77RXNGucke_1tQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201117_144123.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-veamAf7OITo/X8KKJsPeZEI/AAAAAAAAOyg/C9J5q9KzmmMdv11eeqY77RXNGucke_1tQCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/20201117_144123.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-84945894517760057212020-10-29T16:49:00.016-07:002020-10-29T16:53:21.294-07:00WITCO Avalanche Snow Shovel, Comparison: Red vs Silver, Witco A.S., Made In Norway, Brtitish Army, Norwegian Army, Rottefella, T-Handle, Alpine <p><span style="font-size: large;"> I recently ran across another WITCO avalanche, snow shovel, that was a "<i><b>screaming great deal</b></i>"! The problem was that I really wasn't in the market for another one, so I passed the opportunity on to my son. As luck would have it, he needed one!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DlWalBjGveo/X5tPrafOh6I/AAAAAAAAOtI/IDa7EiVAGxw9mcOrh005rFRtCgel8qRCACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00640.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DlWalBjGveo/X5tPrafOh6I/AAAAAAAAOtI/IDa7EiVAGxw9mcOrh005rFRtCgel8qRCACLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00640.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">He snatched up the shovel, and dropped it by the Bunker for a quick photo shoot for the blog. So, today we'll be taking a look at this silver version, and then we'll do a comparison with my red version.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">You can read all about these WITCO shovels over on my blog page about my red version. So, before we get into the photos, jump on over there and read up on the history, if you haven't already!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/07/witco-avalanche-snow-shovel-witco-as.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/07/witco-avalanche-snow-shovel-witco-as.html</a></b></i></span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Here is the album of this beautiful, silver version. We'll follow that up with the "Red vs Silver", side-by-side comparison album.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbdTatgrobY/X5tP9VLr2NI/AAAAAAAAOtQ/J6ixnkhwOK4CbLmLtnmE-tS3_RLH_vHuwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00641.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbdTatgrobY/X5tP9VLr2NI/AAAAAAAAOtQ/J6ixnkhwOK4CbLmLtnmE-tS3_RLH_vHuwCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00641.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QSApnLX6F0/X5tQV7_yMYI/AAAAAAAAOtY/aZcZT9i_V3Qj9u7Y7YHr6eAZ1g9uGR-sQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00642.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QSApnLX6F0/X5tQV7_yMYI/AAAAAAAAOtY/aZcZT9i_V3Qj9u7Y7YHr6eAZ1g9uGR-sQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00642.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NilUT5phF-U/X5tQkLXVedI/AAAAAAAAOtc/Dsfi-AFhyUo_uafjx_dt5OfpRblkvGX2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00643.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NilUT5phF-U/X5tQkLXVedI/AAAAAAAAOtc/Dsfi-AFhyUo_uafjx_dt5OfpRblkvGX2wCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00643.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pAMImEbC6zI/X5tQ1SqKwjI/AAAAAAAAOto/RsW0BYQK6pMqUgB3N5SZ-eqpd0FSYBBMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00644.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pAMImEbC6zI/X5tQ1SqKwjI/AAAAAAAAOto/RsW0BYQK6pMqUgB3N5SZ-eqpd0FSYBBMQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00644.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ89JdgRt_o/X5tRIvT-kCI/AAAAAAAAOtw/GjIK4YSzJRcbVXWmuRYol04pLDkuP3IvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00645.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ89JdgRt_o/X5tRIvT-kCI/AAAAAAAAOtw/GjIK4YSzJRcbVXWmuRYol04pLDkuP3IvwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00645.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a9D_uD8Nco/X5tRXiw94aI/AAAAAAAAOt0/Xhf-NiLSwU0ZM497IjEo6n0urA00u1wwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00646.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a9D_uD8Nco/X5tRXiw94aI/AAAAAAAAOt0/Xhf-NiLSwU0ZM497IjEo6n0urA00u1wwQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00646.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppZx4PDOJjU/X5tRlyMmnYI/AAAAAAAAOt8/bCNFRT_ps_oKT8Kq1CM1RnC4Z_RAqdENgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00647.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppZx4PDOJjU/X5tRlyMmnYI/AAAAAAAAOt8/bCNFRT_ps_oKT8Kq1CM1RnC4Z_RAqdENgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00647.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jxkQPzzn7ls/X5tRyP_47vI/AAAAAAAAOuA/0AIkBQTv2AQQoCeiSnE9t6mtfoncVcEoACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00648.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jxkQPzzn7ls/X5tRyP_47vI/AAAAAAAAOuA/0AIkBQTv2AQQoCeiSnE9t6mtfoncVcEoACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00648.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: large;">And now, as promised, here are the two different versions, side-by-side. They are nearly identical, with only a couple of slight differences. There is a hole in the shovel shaft, on the red version, and not there on the silver version. The hole in the T-handle for the wrist thong, is reversed (handle installed reversed). Other than the colors (red & orange), and those two differences, they are the same.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fpNrA42TRcc/X5tTTjV8WqI/AAAAAAAAOuM/jKRADQyVOJgUlC1ZneA5HYtD4Q0HhGCRQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC00649.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fpNrA42TRcc/X5tTTjV8WqI/AAAAAAAAOuM/jKRADQyVOJgUlC1ZneA5HYtD4Q0HhGCRQCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00649.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wnY9oh91GTM/X5tTiPvNL1I/AAAAAAAAOuQ/4cEevDBc148dVL59ofn8YgCthF3qcITQQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00650.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wnY9oh91GTM/X5tTiPvNL1I/AAAAAAAAOuQ/4cEevDBc148dVL59ofn8YgCthF3qcITQQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00650.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lRpTYp0-Gc/X5tT2t3NZmI/AAAAAAAAOuY/u8gJgGP2mbQaZ3isCkv2libJzZvrdT3rQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00651.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lRpTYp0-Gc/X5tT2t3NZmI/AAAAAAAAOuY/u8gJgGP2mbQaZ3isCkv2libJzZvrdT3rQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00651.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIAykm7suzc/X5tUHT7VupI/AAAAAAAAOug/DRuBC10SKKk48faShCFmPE55plLAw0pzgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00652.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIAykm7suzc/X5tUHT7VupI/AAAAAAAAOug/DRuBC10SKKk48faShCFmPE55plLAw0pzgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00652.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6onC8RfZTe0/X5tUVopi_hI/AAAAAAAAOuk/HlaCDQy2xtMLwimycs4tUwMfLEgUyhGMwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00653.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6onC8RfZTe0/X5tUVopi_hI/AAAAAAAAOuk/HlaCDQy2xtMLwimycs4tUwMfLEgUyhGMwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00653.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lN_yzR7dohk/X5tUhpvQNqI/AAAAAAAAOus/E2_1Ast1vnQPbcSnvTEpUyvjXzGCuRnpQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00654.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lN_yzR7dohk/X5tUhpvQNqI/AAAAAAAAOus/E2_1Ast1vnQPbcSnvTEpUyvjXzGCuRnpQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00654.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-33205641034301722642020-09-22T14:59:00.008-07:002020-09-24T08:49:02.727-07:00German M38 Klappspaten, WW2 Folding Shovel - Entrenching Tool, Post-War Norwegian Army, 1940 B & Co., Soligen, Berg & Company, Heer Wehrmacht, H 40 WaA253, At The Front , ATF<p><span style="font-size: large;"> In today's posting, we'll be looking at an iconic WW2 German shovel. The classic, M38 Klappspaten, German folding shovel.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NRZ1roGE_B4/X2arj-ZRRsI/AAAAAAAAOo0/ljnbFhP-iaw5RAeugNabxCjALuT1wjWlACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00555.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NRZ1roGE_B4/X2arj-ZRRsI/AAAAAAAAOo0/ljnbFhP-iaw5RAeugNabxCjALuT1wjWlACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00555.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I have been on the lookout for a reasonably priced, WW2 vintage, German klappspaten, in very good condition, with good markings. The search has been ongoing for quite some time, but now the hunt is over! I have one in hand, and in the bunker.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DorNPd4wALc/X2kf_weuMHI/AAAAAAAAOo8/7qarvf6WWlkNN93tp4G3oY4E06nxJmg5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00556.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DorNPd4wALc/X2kf_weuMHI/AAAAAAAAOo8/7qarvf6WWlkNN93tp4G3oY4E06nxJmg5ACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00556.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;">I purchased this shovel from a company here in the USA. The company is "At The Front", located in Kentucky. ATF is best known for their historically accurate, and high quality, WW2 reproduction items. However, they also have a mix of original items. Nearly all of their reproduction items are made in-house, here in the USA, or are custom manufactured for them over-seas. Their items are near perfect copies of the original items, perfect for display, or reenactment. In short, I highly recommend this company. You can look over all their items here:</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.atthefront.com/" target="_blank">https://www.atthefront.com/</a></span></b></i></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wnrnOwNGqN4/X2pr30kNkFI/AAAAAAAAOp0/WFK4xmojXSAkbrMflYE6L-z29_oaBpbNQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00581.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wnrnOwNGqN4/X2pr30kNkFI/AAAAAAAAOp0/WFK4xmojXSAkbrMflYE6L-z29_oaBpbNQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00581.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CA3NktAKUMw/X2psJA2p3eI/AAAAAAAAOp8/lYyCxG0pfjQ8nUKRbwWGEXGp3UUFy74jgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00559.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CA3NktAKUMw/X2psJA2p3eI/AAAAAAAAOp8/lYyCxG0pfjQ8nUKRbwWGEXGp3UUFy74jgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00559.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: large;">So, with that glowing endorsement, let's move on to the klappspaten I purchased from them. Their price is great, and the shovels are some of the best I've seen in years! (I actually managed to snag one at a better price on their Labor Day Sale). ATF is also one of the only commercial sources for these WW2 shovels around these days. If you purchase one of their klappspaten shovels, please let them know you heard about them here on the blog! Here is a link to the shovels:</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.atthefront.com/product-p/ggetf.htm" target="_blank">https://www.atthefront.com/product-p/ggetf.htm</a> </span></b></i></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The klappspaten's that ATF are selling, are all original, WW2 issue, German Military, folding shovels that were originally used by the WW2 German occupation troops in Norway. After the war, and after Germany's surrender, the Norwegian Army requisitioned, and reissued these shovels to their own troops, and used them during the post-war years. Norway painted the shovels green and used them until the 1980's or 1990's, when they sold them all off as surplus. ATF purchased a large quantity of these shovels and had the Norwegian post-war paint professionally stripped off, leaving the shovels in their original WW2 condition, (with a few little spots of Norwegian green paint here and there). ATF advised that the company that stripped the shovels, coated the metal with oil. I can assure you, if it was "oil", it petrified in storage! I ended up trying just about everything I could think of to remove the hardened "oil". In the end, a 3M green scrub pad and some "Goof Off", graffiti remover, did the trick.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Aside from the "oil" removal, all the shovel needed was a light coat of danish oil on the wood, and a good wipe down. The Norwegian paint actually preserved the shovels in their original German war-time condition. It basically worked as a "time capsule". When the paint was removed, the original, 1940's shovel was revealed. Very nice!</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eITjnclyzqg/X2prXBcXRVI/AAAAAAAAOps/1ECQg1q31jc-p6UxVKEQDpJnpAMHBHrzwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00579.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eITjnclyzqg/X2prXBcXRVI/AAAAAAAAOps/1ECQg1q31jc-p6UxVKEQDpJnpAMHBHrzwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00579.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Norwegian Army Green paint under the nut.</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p> <span style="font-size: large;">With the "oil" removed, the markings and date stamps really showed up nicely. Not only was the shovel in great condition overall, the markings were everything I had hoped they would be. Since ATF does not hand pick, or take requests for markings, I just trusted that a good one would be selected and shipped. I was not disappointed!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pQffzyrpLjs/X2kgdVyEmCI/AAAAAAAAOpE/PTzwhqwmUcEfWUUy7cDI2GGDnzvHYIKEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00566.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pQffzyrpLjs/X2kgdVyEmCI/AAAAAAAAOpE/PTzwhqwmUcEfWUUy7cDI2GGDnzvHYIKEQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00566.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is marked with the maker's mark "<b><i>B & Co.</i></b>" , "<i><b>Solingen</b></i>". This is the mark used by "<i><b>Berg & Company</b></i>" of Solingen, Germany. The company is actually still in business, and you can read a brief history of the company on their website.</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.berg-spanntechnik.de/en/unternehmen/historie.php" target="_blank">https://www.berg-spanntechnik.de/en/unternehmen/historie.php</a></span></b></i></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Under the maker's mark, "<i><b>H 40</b></i>" is stamped. The "<i><b>H</b></i>" is for Heer, or German Army, in english. The "<i><b>40</b></i>", is for the year 1940. The "<i><b>H</b></i>" marking indicates army issue.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">To the left of the Maker's mark and year stamps, there is a nice little waffenamt. A waffenamt is a small German Eagle stamp with <i><b>WaA</b></i> and a number under the eagle. The number to the right of the "<i><b>WaA</b></i>" is a unique number assigned to an inspector at a given location. The waffenamt on my shovel shows two digits, a 2 and a partial number. I did a quick check on a list of known waffenamts and discovered that <i><b>WaA253</b></i> was used at Berg & Co. from 1937 - 1939. The only other number used there was <i><b>WaA519</b></i>, from 1942 - 1944. So, it is probable that the complete number is <i><b>WaA253</b></i>.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E9crMZBTR5w/X2kg2BeTcbI/AAAAAAAAOpM/0wgm4U6KuxMiJv9UjF51t2J3IQYwHwcTACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00564.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E9crMZBTR5w/X2kg2BeTcbI/AAAAAAAAOpM/0wgm4U6KuxMiJv9UjF51t2J3IQYwHwcTACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00564.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Up until late 1940, the actual manufacturer's name, or company emblem, was stamped onto each item for the military. In late 1940, the "3 letter" codes were instituted, and actual company names and emblems were eliminated. Under this system, each company was assigned a random, 3 letter code. This code was used in lieu of the actual company name so that the enemy would not be able to tell where equipment was being manufactured, if it fell into enemy intelligence hands (hopefully protecting operational factories from bombing). The 3 letter code that was assigned to Berg & Company was "<i><b>agv</b></i>".</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">As I stated, way back at the beginning of this post, these shovels that ATF are selling, all came from Norway. The German military invaded Norway in 1940, and remained there until their surrender in 1945. Since my shovel is 1940 dated, and came from Norway, we can guess that it was carried by one of the original Wehrmacht soldiers, who invaded Norway, and remained for the duration of the war. After the war, all of the surrendered shovels were painted and reissued to the post-war, Norwegian Army troops. This is a shovel with a known history!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">These German klappspatens are the original, military folding shovels. Germany was the first country to manufacture and issue folding shovels to the military. Germany introduced these shovels in 1938, and they were produced until the end of the war. In 1943, the US military was inspired to produce, and issue their own version of the folding shovel, based on the 1938 German klappspaten. Germany issued out their folding shovels alongside the flat spades, and as far as anyone can tell, there was not a formal system that determined which units received the folders, versus the flat shovels. </span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The original, German WW2 vintage klappspaten, folding shovels, are nearly identical to the early post-war, Dutch, folding shovels, with a couple of distinct differences. The most notable difference is that when the handle on the German shovel is folded, and the nut tightened down, the wood handle stands out from the blade at a slight, but very noticeable, angle. </span></p><p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PKPOx-F-YIc/X2psgE6oxXI/AAAAAAAAOqE/saDsTUsc1jkkXVKojsNGHGXqXQS32j-lgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00591.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PKPOx-F-YIc/X2psgE6oxXI/AAAAAAAAOqE/saDsTUsc1jkkXVKojsNGHGXqXQS32j-lgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00591.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Angle of the handle when folded and locked.</b></i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The Dutch shovels fold flat, with the handle parallel to the blade, usually touching it. I will compare the two versions in closer detail, in a later post, so stay tuned. I mention this as a caution, and as an educational footnote. It is very common to see post-war Dutch shovels being sold as an "authentic WW2 German shovels". Buyer beware! You can read about my Dutch version here:</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2017/03/dutch-army-shovel-entrenching-tool.html" target="_blank">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2017/03/dutch-army-shovel-entrenching-tool.html</a></span></b></i></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I picked up a reproduction, leather, Type 1, klappspaten cover to display with the new shovel. I gave the repro a quick overhaul, by rounding out the edges, doing some dye work, changing the stud posts to rivets instead of screws, and stamping in a 1940 date and a three letter code. </span></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8ZXuodcDho/X2prAOkv6LI/AAAAAAAAOpk/JkqoVDLuTXEIWgQ9DQEYxFwYLRHlwgp_wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00609.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8ZXuodcDho/X2prAOkv6LI/AAAAAAAAOpk/JkqoVDLuTXEIWgQ9DQEYxFwYLRHlwgp_wCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00609.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdAfYNNxHeE/X2pqtuwPGwI/AAAAAAAAOpc/Q1sNr5S0C9c_57OQUFNPlq-2pXglgDaYACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00599.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdAfYNNxHeE/X2pqtuwPGwI/AAAAAAAAOpc/Q1sNr5S0C9c_57OQUFNPlq-2pXglgDaYACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00599.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I'll do some additional work on weathering, and aging, the leather in the coming weeks, but for now it'll pass. The Type 1 covers had a full leather "lid" cover on the top. The later Type 2 covers did away with the lid cover and just used a strap, and added a metal shelf to hold the point of the shovel in the carrier. You can jump over to the mp44 website to take a look at the two types in more detail.</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.mp44.nl/equipment/folding_entrenching_tool.htm" target="_blank">https://www.mp44.nl/equipment/folding_entrenching_tool.htm</a></span></b></i></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-roUyh1UPZbk/X2pqYLGsaUI/AAAAAAAAOpU/Vjl2wN5wC8AhQfmdwm_sIzRlkhbsQQtRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00595.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-roUyh1UPZbk/X2pqYLGsaUI/AAAAAAAAOpU/Vjl2wN5wC8AhQfmdwm_sIzRlkhbsQQtRwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00595.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I'll post an update after I get the cover completely aged, and in "museum replica" condition. Original leather, WW2 German covers are VERY difficult to find, and are often sold for many times the price of an actual shovel, so until I find an original, this replica should work nicely.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Well this posting has grown a bit long, so I think we'll wrap it up here, and get on with the photo album. Thanks again to ATF for sending such a great "pick of the litter"! I would encourage anyone in the market for one of these WW2 German shovels to check out the stock over at ATF while they are still available.</span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKsnCa_zdFU/X2ps951jjdI/AAAAAAAAOqM/rDggBx6lhOQwfullKxWt1JsWM0eZzLBeACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00557.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKsnCa_zdFU/X2ps951jjdI/AAAAAAAAOqM/rDggBx6lhOQwfullKxWt1JsWM0eZzLBeACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00557.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-adJj7smSXlY/X2ptQehg6PI/AAAAAAAAOqU/CIMSsv0bOiAimdRyJ2UnL8ZZEPLqp_vSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00559.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-adJj7smSXlY/X2ptQehg6PI/AAAAAAAAOqU/CIMSsv0bOiAimdRyJ2UnL8ZZEPLqp_vSgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00559.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHbOdGyK3XY/X2pxKu2OtTI/AAAAAAAAOsM/Yisnc17AjOkfjHQ7WTZ6a8ixHDbS_fNeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00597.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHbOdGyK3XY/X2pxKu2OtTI/AAAAAAAAOsM/Yisnc17AjOkfjHQ7WTZ6a8ixHDbS_fNeQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00597.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sq1mfLwWbGk/X2pxYCVa1DI/AAAAAAAAOsU/nSb49VSY6_o4SJJLBpYFCM8zT28CHJ96gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00609.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sq1mfLwWbGk/X2pxYCVa1DI/AAAAAAAAOsU/nSb49VSY6_o4SJJLBpYFCM8zT28CHJ96gCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00609.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yqH4wtQWwhA/X2pxmx-BssI/AAAAAAAAOsc/kJghFCKKX1EgZR5KNHGU5UB-LRyh28vJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00599.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yqH4wtQWwhA/X2pxmx-BssI/AAAAAAAAOsc/kJghFCKKX1EgZR5KNHGU5UB-LRyh28vJwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00599.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-73092845661588335222020-08-30T13:38:00.007-07:002021-05-12T14:15:36.374-07:00Yugoslavian JNA Model 1959 Shovel Cover, Yugo M59 Entrenching Tool, US Model 1943 Folding Shovel, Leather Post War Style, Yugoslavia M-43 / M-59<p><span style="font-size: large;"> I have been on a quest lately, to match all of my shovels with a corresponding cover. I did an inventory, and realized I had a US Model 1943 shovel that needed a cover. I also noticed that I did not have a Yugoslavian, post-war cover in the collection. Well, I found a solution for both open spots.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EKQR1rWv8ZQ/X0wFjRru6iI/AAAAAAAAOlY/xpFJ5F8bmvUaUWePK5gALZ2F0W0XCh7KgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00528.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EKQR1rWv8ZQ/X0wFjRru6iI/AAAAAAAAOlY/xpFJ5F8bmvUaUWePK5gALZ2F0W0XCh7KgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00528.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I located a great deal on a post-war, Yugoslavian, leather shovel cover, and picked it up.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QO2Ze00z1CA/X0wF6XB5ZhI/AAAAAAAAOlg/Wnw9qC6SOpwDxXyoMkhdIssCOH2Gvr4XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QO2Ze00z1CA/X0wF6XB5ZhI/AAAAAAAAOlg/Wnw9qC6SOpwDxXyoMkhdIssCOH2Gvr4XgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">What makes this a perfect solution, is that Yugoslavia used the old, M-1943, US folding shovels, from 1951, until their break up in 1992. I just happened to have a 1945 dated US shovel without a cover, and now I had a Yugoslavian cover without a shovel. To solve the dilemma, I paired the US shovel with the Yugo cover, and gave the US shovel a new "identity", as a post-war Yugoslavian shovel. Problem solved!<br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GUWPtjsC9Bc/X0wHJb7xavI/AAAAAAAAOlo/zANFXbfaz44ihoOzVc5cBgIfyUyj_1SAACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00530.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GUWPtjsC9Bc/X0wHJb7xavI/AAAAAAAAOlo/zANFXbfaz44ihoOzVc5cBgIfyUyj_1SAACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00530.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">After the end of WW2 in Germany, the US military ended up with a number of warehouses filled with old German Wehrmacht, and US military surplus gear that needed a good home. In 1950, the <i><b>Mutual Defense Assistance Program (MDAP)</b></i> was signed into existence. This allowed the US to supply various countries with surplus gear and equipment from these left over surplus piles. All of the gear in the warehouses was deemed to be of negligible value to the new NATO forces. In 1951, Yugoslavia made a request for equipment and were approved under the MDAP. Nearly all of the field gear they received was a used mix of German and US items. Yugoslavia was given a very large quantity of US M-1943 folding shovels, as well as German helmets and various other leather gear items. Along with the field gear, the US transferred Sherman Tanks and other light armored vehicles, some artillery, and various small arms to the new Yugoslavian military. It is interesting to note, that in the early post-war years, most of the Yugoslavian army were wearing WW2 vintage German helmets, carrying K98 rifles, and carrying US M-1943 shovels, all while maneuvering with US Sherman tanks! It is interesting to note that Yugoslavia was the first, and only, Com-Bloc country to receive equipment through this program. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Yugoslavia used this mash up of German and US surplus equipment until 1959, when they standardized, and modernized, their field equipment with their own designs.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In 1959, Yugoslavia kept the US M-1943 shovels, but designed their own leather carrier, based on the old German style folding shovel carriers. They also came out with their own style helmet, ammo pouches, and other items as well. Yugoslavia continued to use the US shovels in the M-59 leather covers until 1992, when Yugoslavia broke up. After that date the US style, tri-fold shovels came into regular use in Serbia, Bosnia, etc. (the post-Yugoslavia countries).</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">NOTE: According to one of my blog readers, </span></b></i><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Miloš Reža, Yugoslavia received the M-1943 US shovels without covers. The Yugoslavian army first constructed their own version of the US canvas covers, and then later, issued the leather covers. When the Serbian (post-Yugoslavian era) Army started issuing tri-fold shovels, the old US shovels and covers were placed in reserve storage.</b></i><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">From what I can tell, in 1959, there was a complete redesigning of the basic soldier's field gear. Natural leather Y-straps, ammo pouches, rifle slings, and shovel covers were added (you can see one of the SKS ammo pouches and an oil bottle carrier in the opening group photo). These leather items had embossed edging lines and "chrome" plated steel rivets. I would assume that Yugoslavia used the older, canvas, M-43, US shovel covers, until the M-59 leather covers were issued out.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">My shovel cover is in very good condition for it's age. When I received it, it was missing one of the upper corner rivets. I made a "shop replacement" rivet out of copper and aged it to blend in. The new rivet is now "part of its history". </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OHU1hkMeSA/X0wHkGxZtdI/AAAAAAAAOlw/LTIZUdDEu3wxNhbwmQdiQCD3K2qaUvg4QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00550.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OHU1hkMeSA/X0wHkGxZtdI/AAAAAAAAOlw/LTIZUdDEu3wxNhbwmQdiQCD3K2qaUvg4QCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00550.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXth6m65gL4/X0wH18WJZFI/AAAAAAAAOl4/xCLkuRQgXgUU5UDqldW1YHhtaAYUWm4dwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00549.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXth6m65gL4/X0wH18WJZFI/AAAAAAAAOl4/xCLkuRQgXgUU5UDqldW1YHhtaAYUWm4dwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00549.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The original rivets are a tube-type rivet that is very long. The mushroomed over, tube side, is machine pressed into a wide, flat backing. I have been unable to locate tube rivets that are long enough, and I lack the means to mushroom the back into the wide, flat backing. So, I did the next best thing, and that is to traditionally rivet the corner with a long copper rivet, peened with a brass washer. I finished the repair with a bit of patina on the new rivet to blend it in.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The cover is a very snug fit, but it was obviously made for the US M-43 shovels.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This project was an interesting solution to the "US-Yugoslavia entrenching tool", hole in the collection. The US M-43 shovels are easy to come by, and the Yugo covers are seldom found with a shovel, so the answer was easy, "reconstruct" a Yugoslavian "issue set", by combining my orphan US shovel with an original Yugo leather cover. All in all, it is a great addition to the collection!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Let's take a closer look.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ncDENkrju3I/X0wIdBXbbZI/AAAAAAAAOmA/JbjFJD7UYI0FxvWC6H-GAZR9XgJheNPlACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00538.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ncDENkrju3I/X0wIdBXbbZI/AAAAAAAAOmA/JbjFJD7UYI0FxvWC6H-GAZR9XgJheNPlACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00538.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbgsUkxYutQ/X0wIq3a6ntI/AAAAAAAAOmE/gjGVXD60Zz4hqWa8TwmGOdohwstktO2fwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00537.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbgsUkxYutQ/X0wIq3a6ntI/AAAAAAAAOmE/gjGVXD60Zz4hqWa8TwmGOdohwstktO2fwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00537.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EbFYpaM9f2Q/X0wJwaAJMeI/AAAAAAAAOmo/t7V_lAr9aPglbB4CtSaHlLwwo7UuW_dxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00554.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EbFYpaM9f2Q/X0wJwaAJMeI/AAAAAAAAOmo/t7V_lAr9aPglbB4CtSaHlLwwo7UuW_dxgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00554.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZccO3l9Hm84/X0wKAuvM7HI/AAAAAAAAOmw/rBsKwOHPZ8gaVimPRQ5Fmw0SNh2CzCytwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00552.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZccO3l9Hm84/X0wKAuvM7HI/AAAAAAAAOmw/rBsKwOHPZ8gaVimPRQ5Fmw0SNh2CzCytwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00552.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MNgC7WoVHA4/X0wKO67Ur8I/AAAAAAAAOm0/2V1FS50NUjwHn5Q13-OSpcHv64QdUHKIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00551.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MNgC7WoVHA4/X0wKO67Ur8I/AAAAAAAAOm0/2V1FS50NUjwHn5Q13-OSpcHv64QdUHKIQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00551.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kq5YRqQ5_Y/X0wKkhtAjII/AAAAAAAAOnA/6C79XMfbljEpZWtfwnehcThmYy3s_oGegCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC00539.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kq5YRqQ5_Y/X0wKkhtAjII/AAAAAAAAOnA/6C79XMfbljEpZWtfwnehcThmYy3s_oGegCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00539.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KVgzOi32GCQ/X0wKwdRTxGI/AAAAAAAAOnE/8QxEBSzBrNMbEluVAQyGbpEPYAt_3dO9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC00540.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KVgzOi32GCQ/X0wKwdRTxGI/AAAAAAAAOnE/8QxEBSzBrNMbEluVAQyGbpEPYAt_3dO9QCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/DSC00540.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sF-KYJU0aaE/X0wK-Xwg6eI/AAAAAAAAOnM/mC-jmytVNkgWOsyZqRTkdYTgVUSdhpLAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00533.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sF-KYJU0aaE/X0wK-Xwg6eI/AAAAAAAAOnM/mC-jmytVNkgWOsyZqRTkdYTgVUSdhpLAwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00533.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9CchQ5IMYw/X0wLOYp9hYI/AAAAAAAAOnU/uHWcmog1LCg_WlkLpVAQINbXLnkfUKO0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00534.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9CchQ5IMYw/X0wLOYp9hYI/AAAAAAAAOnU/uHWcmog1LCg_WlkLpVAQINbXLnkfUKO0ACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00534.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nO5Kyb-qRVs/X0wLe4GwZcI/AAAAAAAAOng/Jh8pZs-izPoA8fJku4aFyuxEP0hwyZscgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00546.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nO5Kyb-qRVs/X0wLe4GwZcI/AAAAAAAAOng/Jh8pZs-izPoA8fJku4aFyuxEP0hwyZscgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00546.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-seaF11v548w/X0wMFT5V3yI/AAAAAAAAOnw/4exiAbTfr4ASEH6fYdRSDVwrQtBfivaxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00547.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-seaF11v548w/X0wMFT5V3yI/AAAAAAAAOnw/4exiAbTfr4ASEH6fYdRSDVwrQtBfivaxwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/DSC00547.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-72971258033056440972020-08-06T22:21:00.002-07:002020-08-06T22:22:19.652-07:00Israeli Army, IDF Zahal, Shovel and Cover, 1948 - 1950's Entrenching Tool, French Shovel Cover, French Foreign Legion, Israel צְבָא הַהֲגָנָה לְיִשְׂרָאֵל<div><span style="font-size: x-large;">I am always on the lookout for interesting, and rare shovels and covers to add to the collection. While doing a little "online exploring", I spotted a flat shovel with a canvas cover up for sale, by a seller in <i><b>Ramat Yishay, Israel</b></i>.</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v9tYZDaSPxo/Xyyiug93bEI/AAAAAAAAOhw/aUlnADo1v_shBZcwAPk8vBcuwtyzFNqSQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC00375.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v9tYZDaSPxo/Xyyiug93bEI/AAAAAAAAOhw/aUlnADo1v_shBZcwAPk8vBcuwtyzFNqSQCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/DSC00375.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The price was high, and it was grouped with another civilian type of folding shovel. I made a number of offers, and kept in contact with the seller over several months. We eventually came to an agreeable price, for the flat spade and cover only, and a deal was struck. There was more than a bit of a language barrier to deal with, but I persevered. After over a month of shipping in-transit time, it arrived. I was not disappointed, but I also wasn't sure exactly what I bought!</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGtTV4jgQ5c/XyyjB2OEMUI/AAAAAAAAOh4/NnaY9Yegm28CxTD1Gd2mpgjVipi6vAZsACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00356.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGtTV4jgQ5c/XyyjB2OEMUI/AAAAAAAAOh4/NnaY9Yegm28CxTD1Gd2mpgjVipi6vAZsACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00356.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">I exchanged a few messages back and forth with the seller, and it sounds like this shovel, and carrier, were used by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF, Zahal) back in the 1950's, and they were obtained by the seller after IDF service.</span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DzyR1-MDUkY/XyyjVRPNgXI/AAAAAAAAOiA/8mp1l7BCQQ8YMq71IhGUrdIjkva4IN5dQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00377.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DzyR1-MDUkY/XyyjVRPNgXI/AAAAAAAAOiA/8mp1l7BCQQ8YMq71IhGUrdIjkva4IN5dQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00377.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The subject of IDF entrenching tools (or any IDF equipment and uniform items for that matter), is a tough area to find any documentation on. I do most of my research by combing through old photos, looking for items being worn in the field by IDF soldiers. It is by no means the most efficient way to research, but when an item is spotted in a documented photo, there is no disputing its use!</span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The IDF was founded in 1948, after the Israeli War for Independence. From the moment Israel came into existence, they have been in one war after another with their Arab neighbors, and in a constant state of war alert at all times since. In fact, the IDF is considered one of the all time, most war hardened, and experienced, military forces in the world! You can read more about the IDF here:</span></div><div><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel_Defense_Forces">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel_Defense_Forces</a></span></b></i><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The early Israeli Army was equipped with a mix of foreign surplus, donated items, and domestically made items. The British, French and Americans, donated large quantities of surplus items in the early days of the IDF. It is not uncommon to see photos of IDF soldiers wearing French Lizard camo, wearing French hats, and wearing British web gear, wearing US M1 helmets or British Brodie Helmets, carrying US M1943 folding shovels, and carrying surplus WW2 vintage K98k Mausers, or US M16 rifles! Tying all of that together, is a mix of hybrid Israeli designed and made gear. Collecting IDF equipment and uniforms is never dull! As the years went by, these foreign items were modified, repaired, and mixed together, until they became uniquely Israeli. That is exactly the case with the shovel and cover I acquired.</span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">With that bit of background history behind us now, let's move on to the star of today's blog posting, my IDF shovel and cover.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Let's start with the cover, since that is by far, (in my opinion), the most interesting part of the pair. The cover is constructed out of heavy "British Web Fabric", with a British style buckle fastener, but it is definitely NOT British. </span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipwnZx38khU/XyyjqQAfQeI/AAAAAAAAOiI/6gly8F8yo3ILo49sgdGA5DUNSZe4OXjhQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC00384.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipwnZx38khU/XyyjqQAfQeI/AAAAAAAAOiI/6gly8F8yo3ILo49sgdGA5DUNSZe4OXjhQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00384.JPG" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The style of the cover is distinctly "German" in design, but is NOT German. It has the classic belt loops at the top, and a wrap-around strap, in the old German style. The cover is also very reminiscent of the old British 1939 shovel cover, but when placed beside the British cover, it is easy to see the differences.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Here is a link to my British 1939 shovel and cover blog posting if you would like to see the comparison:</span></div><div><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/02/british-patern-1939-entrenching-tool.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/02/british-patern-1939-entrenching-tool.html</a></span></b></i></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl0JQKWrh0g/XyzZ3knY7JI/AAAAAAAAOiQ/bzMa7FEHR5ciCdhNmkwUeSZQdu_WDy3EgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC00385.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl0JQKWrh0g/XyzZ3knY7JI/AAAAAAAAOiQ/bzMa7FEHR5ciCdhNmkwUeSZQdu_WDy3EgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00385.JPG" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The British covers do not have belt loops, the corners are riveted, and there is no interior reinforcements.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">What this shovel cover appears to be, is in fact, a French Engineer Corps, Pioneer, shovel cover. After consulting with fellow collectors and researchers, the consensus is that the cover is French made.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">France was one of only a couple of western countries that continued to use the flat shovel after WW2. It appears that these flat shovels were used with the French Engineers, or Pioneer units. In the early post-WW2 years, France used various surplus fabrics and hardware to construct their early web gear. This would explain the use of British Web Fabric for this carrier. I have seen a French Engineer Department specification drawing from the 1950's that shows two covers specified for the flat shovels. One of the covers is remarkably similar to mine, and even has the same style of belt loops and British styled buckle.</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YYuUFXYZH84/XyyiW7VOpRI/AAAAAAAAOho/xsA_CRPYmakC-_hTkUECO5q9EMz4WNYhQCLcBGAsYHQ/s786/French%2B1950%2BCover%2BDoccument.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="786" data-original-width="531" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YYuUFXYZH84/XyyiW7VOpRI/AAAAAAAAOho/xsA_CRPYmakC-_hTkUECO5q9EMz4WNYhQCLcBGAsYHQ/w432-h640/French%2B1950%2BCover%2BDoccument.jpg" width="432" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">You can read more about the photo above, and the early French covers on this French Forum (be warned, it is in French):</span></div><div><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.passionmilitaria.com/t155176-identification-porte-pelle?highlight=Étuis+pelle">http://www.passionmilitaria.com/t155176-identification-porte-pelle?highlight=Étuis+pelle</a></span></b></i></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The later French covers of the 1960's and 1970's, are constructed in much the same way as my IDF cover, with a few differences. The rear hanger is the US wire type, for attaching to a web belt (the French used nearly identical belts as the US during the 1960's -1980's). The fasteners are usually cinch tighteners, similar to the US style, and the fabrics are standard French fabrics. You can see a good example on this French forum posting:</span></div><div><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.passionmilitaria.com/t164225-porte-pelle-armee-francaise">http://www.passionmilitaria.com/t164225-porte-pelle-armee-francaise</a></span></b></i><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">On one side of this IDF cover, there are faint, large, Hebrew letters written or stamped on it. Unfortunately they are too faded to read clearly. This is another clue to this cover actually being IDF issued.</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5imJBIjpIhg/XyzbsiD3FzI/AAAAAAAAOiw/duVPDiumPiAjIb9JeMfNzkHFPPmeywEuwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00389.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5imJBIjpIhg/XyzbsiD3FzI/AAAAAAAAOiw/duVPDiumPiAjIb9JeMfNzkHFPPmeywEuwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00389.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Inside the cover, there is a leather "blade protector". The stitching has worn away, so now the leather insert is loose, but originally it was sewn in place. I have not seen a cloth cover with the internal leather protector like this before. </span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XSaFA9cCKpE/XyzawQG0xvI/AAAAAAAAOig/u60ZzwFUemE6ZJw7qPIWw5uM2OTf3PTVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00388.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XSaFA9cCKpE/XyzawQG0xvI/AAAAAAAAOig/u60ZzwFUemE6ZJw7qPIWw5uM2OTf3PTVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00388.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The cover is very heavy duty, and very well made. With the leather protector inside, I believe it was made for heavy, long-term field use. This would make sense if it is an early, post-WW2 French Engineer's cover.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Since France donated uniforms and equipment to Israel in the 1950's-1970's, and the cover matches the French Engineer shovel cover style, and construction, I am pretty sure that this is where the cover originally came from, before IDF use. The research continues!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">The shovel is a mystery. There are no markings on it. The blade is crude and the two sides are "pinch welded" together. The handle has an odd, ball design, on the end, that I have not seen on any other flat shovel. The wood handle does not insert fully, to the end of the handle socket, and it is crudely riveted on.</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUNVAyyaERQ/Xyzb_SMSbVI/AAAAAAAAOi4/Ai2KhP6dVhgXjXhjypGv-o1MdfS8G3yXACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00391.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUNVAyyaERQ/Xyzb_SMSbVI/AAAAAAAAOi4/Ai2KhP6dVhgXjXhjypGv-o1MdfS8G3yXACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00391.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I0qOtZptbIA/XyzcSRQq6sI/AAAAAAAAOjA/MretMXjKwnQ1p4e0I9LkEbkxZ5Cy1E_eACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00392.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I0qOtZptbIA/XyzcSRQq6sI/AAAAAAAAOjA/MretMXjKwnQ1p4e0I9LkEbkxZ5Cy1E_eACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00392.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Israel rebuilt and repaired old surplus gear that they obtained for service, so a replaced handle would make perfect sense. The handle appears to have been on the shovel for a very long time, and was was used for quite some time after installation.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">I have not found any shovels that match the construction of the blade exactly, and the handle style is unique, so I have no definitive clues as to the origin at this point. The seller did say the shovel came with the cover, so I'm confident it was in IDF service, along with the cover.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">So until I uncover more information, find a photo, or get additional information from fellow collectors and historians, we will have to leave this research as it stands today. Let's take a closer look at this unique cover and shovel.</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LBIT7HgubZw/XyzcoGCdnOI/AAAAAAAAOjI/MIBSfscQ8cEVJNXfqGbEKg35w8TUl7fKACLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00376.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LBIT7HgubZw/XyzcoGCdnOI/AAAAAAAAOjI/MIBSfscQ8cEVJNXfqGbEKg35w8TUl7fKACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00376.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BrNogo8_Ih4/Xyzc3-rMfyI/AAAAAAAAOjQ/FXymjzIela0p7p4dPERfQ_PEV0kiOP-EgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00377.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BrNogo8_Ih4/Xyzc3-rMfyI/AAAAAAAAOjQ/FXymjzIela0p7p4dPERfQ_PEV0kiOP-EgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00377.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o74V5HJMjW4/XyzdHfjTNfI/AAAAAAAAOjU/Snyh903bjv00P2IASYTifjut7NbUhKypQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00378.JPG" style="display: block; 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padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hJn9EIewRiM/XyzgZKWsGGI/AAAAAAAAOkw/0QSPtxrZRNYYgDSBzZL6yX4GYVdFxeEYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00398.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KfuC7sY0W9M/XyzgnQ0uD5I/AAAAAAAAOk4/MXejS_w6cJcpXlbDObClHJjVbqgV4gMqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00400.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KfuC7sY0W9M/XyzgnQ0uD5I/AAAAAAAAOk4/MXejS_w6cJcpXlbDObClHJjVbqgV4gMqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00400.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVFdIh4ap-A/Xyzg2KYmUNI/AAAAAAAAOk8/k0V72pTL6mg7vPGAdVEMy4wuFopmSOFkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00396.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVFdIh4ap-A/Xyzg2KYmUNI/AAAAAAAAOk8/k0V72pTL6mg7vPGAdVEMy4wuFopmSOFkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00396.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gmtlO_BAq9U/XyzhH3rAtlI/AAAAAAAAOlE/uxDNho9IAiUjAiG0YLqPZgQjIjvpph8ggCLcBGAsYHQ/s2592/DSC00395.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gmtlO_BAq9U/XyzhH3rAtlI/AAAAAAAAOlE/uxDNho9IAiUjAiG0YLqPZgQjIjvpph8ggCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC00395.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-41405503261504978522020-07-12T14:30:00.001-07:002020-07-12T20:56:47.849-07:00WITCO Avalanche Snow Shovel, Witco A.S., Made In Norway, Brtitish Army, Norwegian Army, Rottefella, T-Handle, Alpine<span style="font-size: large;">I have added, yet another, shovel to the collection. This time the new shovel showed up by way of a gift.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ev2LBdBmTc/Xwt2iIm1cRI/AAAAAAAAOeQ/n1gBFO_tJP4EwXQLW5bjzRR4u--5H5dzACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ev2LBdBmTc/Xwt2iIm1cRI/AAAAAAAAOeQ/n1gBFO_tJP4EwXQLW5bjzRR4u--5H5dzACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00330.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My daughter and son in law, picked up a wonderful little avalanche snow shovel at a local garage sale, and gave it to me for Father's Day. Great Gift!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JQTrmZd2mA/Xwt2wd5UOAI/AAAAAAAAOeU/0zHN0seJhfYMEM6fOVL1FRcdlPgV15lpQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JQTrmZd2mA/Xwt2wd5UOAI/AAAAAAAAOeU/0zHN0seJhfYMEM6fOVL1FRcdlPgV15lpQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00331.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The funny thing about this, is that I have been watching and researching, these very shovels, but hadn't picked one up yet. Now the search is over, and another "empty spot" has been filled in the bunker.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel was made by <i><b>Witco A.S</b></i>, of Norway. It is marked as "<i><b>MADE IN NORWAY</b></i>", in both english and french.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufT2GzWh340/Xwt3LqzFOLI/AAAAAAAAOec/f3J9q7lU3jglkTIwx_27Ovp7lFetqa1FgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufT2GzWh340/Xwt3LqzFOLI/AAAAAAAAOec/f3J9q7lU3jglkTIwx_27Ovp7lFetqa1FgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00336.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O1Bt6Pq1uhg/Xwt3aaF9z1I/AAAAAAAAOeg/cN9jvn6C5Ww3A6fCl0P2qkzFaPzn7v1XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O1Bt6Pq1uhg/Xwt3aaF9z1I/AAAAAAAAOeg/cN9jvn6C5Ww3A6fCl0P2qkzFaPzn7v1XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00335.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Witco company is named after the inventor of the Rottefella ski bindings, Bror With, (<b>WIT</b>-h <b>CO</b>-mpany: <b>WITCO </b>). Later, <b>WITCO</b> became <b>Roteffella</b>, still based in Norway, and the shovel production that started with WITCO, continued with Rottefella, with only the name changed on the shovel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the link to the biography page of Bror With:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bror_With">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bror_With</a> </span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a link to the Rottefella Company "<i>About Us</i>" page:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://rottefella.com/about-rottefella">https://rottefella.com/about-rottefella</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The WITCO avalanche snow shovel was based, very closely, on the original Swiss Military avalanche shovel made during WW2. The Swiss version was flatter, and the blade parts were spot welded, and not riveted, like the WITCO version. Originally the WITCO shovel had a straight handle, and then later, a plastic T-Handle was added.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The WITCO shovel was first sold in 1979, and a short write-up appeared in Backpacker Magazine, Oct-Nov 1979, on page 73, at the time.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ITxyQrR4MMo/Xwt31hDVPAI/AAAAAAAAOes/jdJPcLgmt_477n5ytGNFpl_oCWgvaDaOwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screenshot_2020-07-11%2BBackpacker.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="718" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ITxyQrR4MMo/Xwt31hDVPAI/AAAAAAAAOes/jdJPcLgmt_477n5ytGNFpl_oCWgvaDaOwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Screenshot_2020-07-11%2BBackpacker.png" width="393" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">From what I can tell, these shovels were manufactured and sold from 1979, to some time in the early 2000's. The earliest versions had the straight wood handle and were marked WITCO. The middle versions were marked WITCO with a T-handle, and the last versions were marked Rottefella, with a T-handle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The red bladed shovels were marketed to civilians, and a natural silver bladed version, with a grey or light green T-handle, was sold to the Norwegian Army and the British Army. You can still find these silver military versions for sale as surplus British or Norwegian military. The military shovels are marked the same as the civilian red shovels, only the colors are different. Since the British used the WITCO shovels, it is very probable that they were also used by the various British Antarctic Expeditions as well (quite possibly the red version).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The WITCO T-handle shovels have a removable handle. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IuRwjX6ozg/Xwt60xMkEcI/AAAAAAAAOfU/tvXpTB1SIS8_b_0isuXIukqGJXBOAeZ4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IuRwjX6ozg/Xwt60xMkEcI/AAAAAAAAOfU/tvXpTB1SIS8_b_0isuXIukqGJXBOAeZ4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00346.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The handle is held in place by a sliding shank-ring. The handle is released by sliding the ring down and then pulling the handle out. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e39HI2vsBLs/Xwt7FVddIrI/AAAAAAAAOfc/qrPvHJVvjw0mYLDPRaaS19S93IPVpTX4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e39HI2vsBLs/Xwt7FVddIrI/AAAAAAAAOfc/qrPvHJVvjw0mYLDPRaaS19S93IPVpTX4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00349.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is an indexing screw in the wood handle that fits into a notch on the blade shank to make sure the T handle is positioned correctly, and to prevent the handle from rotating. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPg0a4UsDBA/Xwt7aNMoQJI/AAAAAAAAOfk/Cc3bXt4ZhGwYWAwU4tN7hwZF9mX0KnoUACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPg0a4UsDBA/Xwt7aNMoQJI/AAAAAAAAOfk/Cc3bXt4ZhGwYWAwU4tN7hwZF9mX0KnoUACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00338.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I currently have three different avalanche shovels in the collection, this new WITCO, a WW2 Swiss shovel, and a French shovel. You can read about the Swiss and French shovels here, on these blog pages:</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/11/swiss-army-alpine-snow-shovel-1939.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/11/swiss-army-alpine-snow-shovel-1939.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2018/07/french-alpine-snow-shovel-circa-1950s.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2018/07/french-alpine-snow-shovel-circa-1950s.html</a> </span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before we get started with the photo album of this new WITCO, let's take a quick look at the three versions of snow shovels that I have in the collection.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5eMpc-78Cr4/Xwt4J2aWV-I/AAAAAAAAOe0/VSuA0FHQYQ4EmL0WZY3QkkKgcuEWfihUgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5eMpc-78Cr4/Xwt4J2aWV-I/AAAAAAAAOe0/VSuA0FHQYQ4EmL0WZY3QkkKgcuEWfihUgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00351.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>WITCO, Swiss, French</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e3FA5YUKaNs/Xwt4Z1ExVwI/AAAAAAAAOe8/Ycp2woRHxewt8hGxpOVKzw3XsWfUXn-ggCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e3FA5YUKaNs/Xwt4Z1ExVwI/AAAAAAAAOe8/Ycp2woRHxewt8hGxpOVKzw3XsWfUXn-ggCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00352.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">WITCO, Swiss, French</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KRkEG5Epf8A/Xwt4qQKKgpI/AAAAAAAAOfE/j155tfNBhx8QzfjQ4-iEsgh2pDaH19VGACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KRkEG5Epf8A/Xwt4qQKKgpI/AAAAAAAAOfE/j155tfNBhx8QzfjQ4-iEsgh2pDaH19VGACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00353.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">WITCO, Swiss, French</span></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bauZSwHEb0s/Xwt58QmyetI/AAAAAAAAOfM/ZCSP6NB72ygKjGl8_VmDDW5pSfHNqrYMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bauZSwHEb0s/Xwt58QmyetI/AAAAAAAAOfM/ZCSP6NB72ygKjGl8_VmDDW5pSfHNqrYMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00355.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">WITCO, Swiss</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now to finish things up, here is the WITCO snow shovel.</span><br />
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-31313880718430525342020-07-09T14:38:00.002-07:002020-07-11T16:47:09.650-07:00Boy Scout Shovel, Combination Tool, Pick - Hoe - Shovel, Folding, WFS World Famous Sports, Made in Japan, Patent 765564, Triangle with Stars Trademark<span style="font-size: large;">Quite some time ago I noticed an odd "folding" shovel that was often referred to as a Boy Scout Shovel, or Camp Shovel. I say "folding", but it is actually a "combination shovel", as it doesn't actually fold.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nGWizilyprM/XweIOL-5IOI/AAAAAAAAOcA/Qbd1tYXhv10WYMlL0FxzUkFXBUyhwqPJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nGWizilyprM/XweIOL-5IOI/AAAAAAAAOcA/Qbd1tYXhv10WYMlL0FxzUkFXBUyhwqPJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00253.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I was immediately intrigued when I saw these, and was determined to track down an example in good condition. Well, I succeeded!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VLbLjsLFYwc/XweIbcfWjEI/AAAAAAAAOcE/1cs3Nxk3Cuw7NF-iP7KacY2jvAQyqws5gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VLbLjsLFYwc/XweIbcfWjEI/AAAAAAAAOcE/1cs3Nxk3Cuw7NF-iP7KacY2jvAQyqws5gCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00254.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is very unique, in that it appears to be a folding shovel, but the head actually pivots, and locks, at a 90 degree angle, to convert it from shovel, to a pick mattock (hoe and pick). From what I can tell, it is a variation of the old Vaughan and Bushnell Company, combination shovel-pick-hoe tool that was marketed to Boy Scouts in 1936. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a link to a page that shows some details of the Vaughan and Bushnell tools:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/vaughan-official-boy-scout-shovel-1559094129">https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/vaughan-official-boy-scout-shovel-1559094129</a> </span></b></i><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xt7yTZprJLk/XweIhgNYuSI/AAAAAAAAOcM/SB4JFjhxEWs9LvCUNjBQ0cFp9DiN4qF_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screenshot_2020-07-09%2BBoys%2527%2BLife.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="167" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xt7yTZprJLk/XweIhgNYuSI/AAAAAAAAOcM/SB4JFjhxEWs9LvCUNjBQ0cFp9DiN4qF_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Screenshot_2020-07-09%2BBoys%2527%2BLife.png" width="147" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Boys Life Magazine, May 1936</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The old Vaughn Bushnell tools used a siding piece to lock the head in position, and the shovel I have, used a spring loaded, double button, mechanism - pivot, to lock the head in place. But other than the locking method, they both appear to be basically the same design.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel we are taking a look at today, has the brand mark "WFS" on the wood handle. This is the logo for World Famous Sports. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">World Famous Sports was known for producing a complete line of Boy Scout "knock-offs", that were sold in hardware and sporting goods stores to Boy Scouts and campers. They made everything from mess kits, to packs, axes, compasses, and shovels. All were copies of the Official Boy Scout items, but substituted the WFS logo and name where the Boy Scouts logo often appeared. On the rucksack copies they made, the WFS logo was designed to look like the Boy Scout logo at first glance! All of these items were made and marketed from the late 1950's to 1970's. As far as I can tell, they were also all made in Japan (pre-"Made In China" days).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have been unable to find a single advertisement or catalog for the WFS items from this 1960's period, so I believe they were only wholesale suppliers to retail stores. The packaging for their items was very generic, and each package had an item number and the WFS log, but not much else. When you start looking, you will find all kinds of old Boy Scout items that are actually WFS and not Official Boy Scout items.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am guessing that my WFS shovel was made in the 1960's or 1970's. You can still find lots of WFS camping gear available for sale on line, and also through sporting goods stores in the USA like Big-5, Walmart, etc. Starting in the 1980's (as far as I can tell), WFS started making knock-off copies of popular "modern" camping gear, and stopped making copies of Boy Scout gear. The WFS gear sold today, all appears to be made in China.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The blade of this shovel is stamped with a makers trademark that is a "triangle made from 4 triangles, with three stars in 3 of the triangles". I have been unable to figure out what company used that trademark. It may be a manufacturer of tools, but not necessarily a retail company marking.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Under the logo, it says Pat. No. , 765564, Made In Japan.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I did some research into the patent number and discovered that it is not from Japan or the United States. Both of those patent numbers are for items that are not this shovel! So, it may be that the patent number is not an actual patent, but merely placed for marketing. That is just a guess for now. The US patent number that matches also would have been issued between 1904 and 1905, obviously out of range for this shovel as well. It is possible that because the design was so close to the Vaughan and Bushnell shovel, they decided to give it a "fake patent number" to hopefully make is seem more "legitimate". Again, just speculation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>UPDATE 7-11-20: I did a database search of all registered, worldwide patent numbers on record (over 120 million!), and discovered that the patent number on these shovels does not match any patent for a shovel, or a locking mechanism. It seems that the patent number is just for show. There are a number of matching patents with the same number, from various countries, but none match anything close to a shovel or locking mechanism.</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is one thing that can not be disputed though, this shovel-hoe-pick tool is very well made! It is very unique as well! The pivot-lock assembly is made of heavy steel and is fitted quite well. The head locks tight in both positions. The locking buttons have very strong springs and lock very positively. All in all, the locking assembly is very well made.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel-pick head is also very well made. It is stamped out of heavy gauge steel and looks like it would stand up to heavy use.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The handle is solid, firmly attached, and well made out of quality wood. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Aside from being so odd in its appearance, this shovel is a higher quality "camp shovel". I am definitely glad I picked one up!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The best way to tell about this shovel is to take a close look at it, so lets get on with the album.</span><br />
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-27815922146904080022020-07-02T13:25:00.002-07:002020-08-05T14:31:09.123-07:00Bulgarian, Austro-Hungarian Shovel Cover, German Made, WW1, WW2, Cold War, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Austria, M-1910, T.D. II, Traindivision Nr.2, K.u.k.<span style="font-size: large;">In my quest to find covers for all of my shovels, I'm always on the lookout for a good deal, and covers with unique markings and patina. I recently found a cover with all three, and I had a shovel that needed a cover just like it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have an old Austro-Hungarian shovel that has been in the collection for some time, without a cover. I originally purchased it, sight unseen, as a Hungarian Army entrenching tool. When it arrived, it was pretty obvious that it was a WW1 era, Austro-Hungarian shovel that had continued its service with the Hungarian Army, well into the Cold War. I have been on the lookout for a good cover ever since.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-FuRlMXL_A/Xv4-KoGcZ9I/AAAAAAAAOaE/-uZygwRlkcQX5kQ6AynJp8LaD4lXb_6QQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00230.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-FuRlMXL_A/Xv4-KoGcZ9I/AAAAAAAAOaE/-uZygwRlkcQX5kQ6AynJp8LaD4lXb_6QQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00230.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read about that Austro-Hungarian shovel on my blog post here:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/10/austro-hungarian-ww1-trench-spade-model.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/10/austro-hungarian-ww1-trench-spade-model.html</a> </span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There have been quite a number of the old, leather, Austro-Hungarian shovel covers coming out of Bulgaria lately. After WW1, Bulgaria continued using the old Austro-Hungarian shovels, through WW2, and into the Cold war era. The Bulgarians "modernized" the old covers by removing the belt loops and restitching them lower on the cover. I believe my cover most likely came out of Bulgaria, since it has the signature "Bulgarian belt loops". The Austrian covers that were used in WW1, used a single belt hanger that was attached at the point-top of the cover. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">From what I understand, the Bulgarian covers were nearly all made in Germany and Austria under contract for the Bulgarians, and many of the covers have manufacturer's stamps from German companies.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PeQI4nOihLM/Xv4-dZe1oeI/AAAAAAAAOaQ/UGoh-lPMX_oHrU3jodoNtpKX8WnvqabBQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00231.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PeQI4nOihLM/Xv4-dZe1oeI/AAAAAAAAOaQ/UGoh-lPMX_oHrU3jodoNtpKX8WnvqabBQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00231.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is not much more I can say about my cover, other than it is a M-1910 style, cover. It fits the old WW1 Austro-Hungarian shovel quite nicely, and looks great! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The cover has a couple of small markings stamped into it. "<i><b>T.D. II</b></i>", and an "<i><b>A</b></i>". See the update below for the full meaning of the T.D. II amrking</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>UPDATE 7-7-20: I received some information from some other historians, reference the T.D. II stamped markings. One collector stated that the Austro-Hungarian Army used the T.D. stamp to designate units of the "</b></i><b>Traindivision</b><i><b>". He stated that the T.D. stamps can be found on firearms and other equipment that were issued to the "</b></i><b>Traindivision</b><i><b>" troops. The "</b></i><b>Traindivision</b><i><b>" troops were supply troops. A bit of research revealed that one of the T.D. units that was activated and serving with the Austro Hungarian Army in 1914, was the </b></i><b>Traindivision Nr.II</b><i><b>. This was the Supply Troop of the 2 Corps. Th</b></i><i><b>e "II" could also be a double one, "11", but that is a bit unlikely. The more obvious and likely option is that the "II" is actually the roman numeral for "2". This fits the stamping perfectly! T.D. 2 was garrisoned in Wien, also know as Vienna, Austria. The "A" stamp is still under investigation.</b></i></span><br />
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<div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>I also was informed that the Bulgarians received all of their shovels and shovel covers from Germany during WW1. At this time, Bulgaria was allied with Germany. The Bulgarian shovels were the same type as the Austrian shovels.</b></i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>A second collector and historian, said that the T.D. II markings were placed on items that were constructed at the German, Traindivision II, military workshop. Since Germany supplied the leather covers to Bulgaria during WW1, it is safe to say that my cover was constructed by the Germans at their Traindivision II military workshop and then sent to Bulgaria, under contract.<br /></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If the "<i><b>II</b></i>" stamping is actually the roman numeral for "<i><b>2</b></i>", as opposed to "<b>11</b>", then it was for the <b><i>Traindivision Nr.2</i></b>, that was garrisoned in Vienna Austria. </span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: large;">You can see how it is very tough to positively identify units from markings! Another complication is that both Germany and the Austro-Hungarian Empire used similar, or identical, markings. Without extra information that traces an item back to a specific location or military unit, it often comes down to writing the most likely narrative about the history of an item based on the clues.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a wonderful website that has a very complete list of the Austro-Hungarian units during WW1. Great information, and the best I've found when it comes to deciphering unit numbers!</span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.austro-hungarian-army.co.uk/orb14.htm">http://www.austro-hungarian-army.co.uk/orb14.htm</a></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now let's take a closer look at this cover.</span><br />
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Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-84768946707613515212020-06-29T11:56:00.001-07:002020-06-29T13:50:50.135-07:00Model 1874 Shovel Cover, Argentina Army, Ejército Argentino, EA, M1874 Spaten, Schanzzeug, Schanzzeugtasche<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had the opportunity to purchase a couple of VERY hard to find shovel covers the other day. The early covers are always hard to find, but to find two of them was a real score.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rqoa9PZYDM8/XvovEmRPMgI/AAAAAAAAOXI/4YE7ORWoFcIJuua9CxBSGjgpofQGj-HgACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rqoa9PZYDM8/XvovEmRPMgI/AAAAAAAAOXI/4YE7ORWoFcIJuua9CxBSGjgpofQGj-HgACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00063.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These two covers were used by the Argentina Army starting back around 1874, and into the 1970's, and probably, to some extent, into the 1980's.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sWAxEcmrko/XvowU2P0xJI/AAAAAAAAOXw/1xlVuDU_QTM2aYiEHce9BCSRqAkU2jF3gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sWAxEcmrko/XvowU2P0xJI/AAAAAAAAOXw/1xlVuDU_QTM2aYiEHce9BCSRqAkU2jF3gCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00065.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">First off, here is my "blog posting disclaimer". There is very little information that can be found about the military equipment of Argentina. There are a couple of books that were published in Argentina, but they are not readily available outside the country. There are also very few collectors who seem to know much about this old equipment. So, what I will be presenting today, will be what I have gathered from old photographs, some translations here and there, and looking at a number of photos of Argentinian gear online. If I miss anything, or get it wrong, I apologize. I will be updating this posting as I find additional information, or make corrections as needed. If any of my readers have information, pleas email me. My contact information is on my bio-page on the sideline of the blog. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Argentina was heavily influenced by the Prussian Army, and then the German Army, starting in the late 1800's. In the 1930's, they further aligned the army with the German models and styles of uniforms, helmets and field equipment. In fact, by the 1930's, a soldier in the Argentina Army looked nearly identical to a soldier in the German Army!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first entrenching tools that were adopted by Argentina were the "Linnemann" style shovels. In fact, the old flat spades are still referred to as Linnemann tools in Argentina.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You can read an outstanding history of the Linnemann tools over at this blog:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://m55q.weebly.com/linnemann.html">https://m55q.weebly.com/linnemann.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The earliest shovels that show up in Argentina were the Model 1874 "Kleines Spaten für Infanterie", or small infantry shovels made by Germany. These shovels were the German copies of the original Linnemann spades. The early shovels in the Argentina Army are marked with German manufacturers stamps. Later, Argentina started producing their own version of the shovel using domestic Argentina manufacturers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The earliest, leather, shovel covers that were adopted by Germany were the Model 1874 style, with a single leather belt hanger. The next versions and had two belt hangers and were considered the Model 1909 carrier.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9WR-zchZ64/XvotblPOpXI/AAAAAAAAOW0/JyPNeTpd4wM1_AH30X3HoAMeH8jtxsSdgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/shanzzeug3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="506" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9WR-zchZ64/XvotblPOpXI/AAAAAAAAOW0/JyPNeTpd4wM1_AH30X3HoAMeH8jtxsSdgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/shanzzeug3.gif" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>M1874 cover on left, M1909 cover on right.</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Both styles were used by Argentina. I believe that the single hanger style carriers were obtained from Germany with the shipment of the first, German produced, Model 1874 shovels.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This would place the two covers that I have, as some of the earliest carriers used, probably back in the 1870's or 1880's. By 1909, the single hanger covers were obsolete, and they began using the two hanger style covers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The spade type shovels continued to be used by Argentina well into the 1960's and 1970's. At some point, probably in the 1960's, Argentina started painting all of the old leather field gear with olive green paint. I believe this was a cheap attempt to "modernize" the old field gear and have it match the new, "modern", US style, field uniforms and gear. In the 1960's or 1970's, Argentina started manufacturing their own version of the US tri-fold shovel. These were domestically produced. I was probably not long after the introduction of the tri-fold shovels, that the old flat spades were phased out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Each of my shovel covers have a slightly different single belt hanger. One is longer than the other, and one is sewn, "sandwiched", between the front and back leather pieces, and the other is sewn to the outside. You can see the differences in the photo below.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AqRKk9kxKjM/Xvowfwq99TI/AAAAAAAAOX0/ZdUw5wivQ9gb4jgXswdZo0IBi_fCBjo3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC03027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AqRKk9kxKjM/Xvowfwq99TI/AAAAAAAAOX0/ZdUw5wivQ9gb4jgXswdZo0IBi_fCBjo3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC03027.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Both of the covers have faint "<i>EAC</i>" stamps, which stand for <i>Ejército Argentino</i>, or the Argentina Army. The "<i>C</i>" in the stamping may mean cavalry, but that is just a guess. The leather is very worn, on both covers, so the stampings are not very clear.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zeanhXm1F98/XvowvwWglzI/AAAAAAAAOYA/FscFPKWNS8AQEQx6_xZAjqPj1mQ2Zq8mQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC03032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zeanhXm1F98/XvowvwWglzI/AAAAAAAAOYA/FscFPKWNS8AQEQx6_xZAjqPj1mQ2Zq8mQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC03032.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is also a manufacturer's stamp on one of the hangers. Again, too worn to read clearly. I believe that this one is the oldest of the two (the one with the shorter hanger).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are also letter, and number, stampings on both of the covers, which are most likely unit or inventory indicators. The letter and number styles are the old type, circa WW1 or earlier.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zqdfm4bBzEE/XvoxH10A7DI/AAAAAAAAOYI/hxZIzmGROgU9Jh-XQObuH0rZ1-psjmprQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zqdfm4bBzEE/XvoxH10A7DI/AAAAAAAAOYI/hxZIzmGROgU9Jh-XQObuH0rZ1-psjmprQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00076.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can see where much of the green paint is peeling off of the leather. It appears that some type of latex paint was used, which would also point to a 1970's time frame for the paint application.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, that just about exhausts my knowledge of these covers, so let's get on with the photo album! Enjoy. (The shovels pictured in the photos are a couple of my old Russian spades from the WW1 era. Similar to the original Linnemann spades).</span><br />
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-44114982200340881562020-06-24T15:36:00.001-07:002022-09-30T05:08:14.571-07:00US Model 1910 Shovel Cover, T-Handle M1910 Entrenching Tool Carrier, 1942 B.B.S. Co. , Original and Reproduction Comparison, WW2 US 10th Mountain Division<span style="font-size: large;">A while back I did a posting on a reproduction, WW2, Model 1910 T-Handle shovel cover that I aged and set up for display. If you will recall, I picked up the reproduction because I was still trying to find a good, original example. Well, the hunt is over. I found one!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXYXnUeBomA/XvPOdaxqVlI/AAAAAAAAOTk/fag3c4b8Y9wrCbmO5OD9N2NKCoJTNMMfwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00034.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXYXnUeBomA/XvPOdaxqVlI/AAAAAAAAOTk/fag3c4b8Y9wrCbmO5OD9N2NKCoJTNMMfwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00034.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I spotted a "<b><i>boy scout shovel</i></b>" for sale that was actually a Model 1943, US folding shovel, in a WW2 dated, Model 1910, original, T-Handle shovel cover. The best part is, I picked the combo up for less than $20 usd delivered! I love it when I find an unexpected deal like that!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U5JfIakKOsI/XvUFrabsHvI/AAAAAAAAOWY/mCy6qN02-HcDgEBIKbDzE79DUsBXlXpfwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20200526_141835.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U5JfIakKOsI/XvUFrabsHvI/AAAAAAAAOWY/mCy6qN02-HcDgEBIKbDzE79DUsBXlXpfwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/20200526_141835.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This cover was made in 1942 by the B.B.S. Company.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QixSbs46rwY/XvPO9Q2wRtI/AAAAAAAAOTw/0Ws3mEdjZecgHadkG1HagFLZQWi5BPJYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00043.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QixSbs46rwY/XvPO9Q2wRtI/AAAAAAAAOTw/0Ws3mEdjZecgHadkG1HagFLZQWi5BPJYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00043.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The printed maker's mark and date are a bit faded on my cover, so here is a clearer shot from another cover to give you a better idea of what the new marking would look like. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oU5RPEpTJIA/XvPPYcQwN_I/AAAAAAAAOT4/g9tjPvEr2JgjbLUUfWNK7E2fOWWeZouFgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/BBS%2B1942%2BCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="638" height="230" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oU5RPEpTJIA/XvPPYcQwN_I/AAAAAAAAOT4/g9tjPvEr2JgjbLUUfWNK7E2fOWWeZouFgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/BBS%2B1942%2BCover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not sure what the B.B.S. stands for, but I do know that it was a maker that is fairly commonly encountered. What is rare, is the fact that this cover is one of the US 10th Mountain Division covers!</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">UPDATE: One of my readers left a comment on my WW2, M1910 shovel page that reveals the actual company name that "B.B.S. Co." stands for. " </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">Hi there, ref your mountain shovel cover. B.B.S. Co. is ‘Brauer Bros.
Shoe Co.’ It is one of the less common makes of manufacturer of mountain
cover I’ve come across and quite sought after. Hope this helps.</span></i> <span style="font-size: large;">" Mystery solved!</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What makes this a Mountain Division Cover, is the placement of the hook hanger on the back.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wXGHYLkttqE/XvPPqhOvvEI/AAAAAAAAOUA/samsVBMElzAOzDvSJsvpciV_oW43rfbyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00037.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wXGHYLkttqE/XvPPqhOvvEI/AAAAAAAAOUA/samsVBMElzAOzDvSJsvpciV_oW43rfbyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00037.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The standard covers have the hook at the top of the cover. The 10th Mountain Division needed the shovels to ride higher on the mountain rucksack - packs, so they manufactured covers with the hanger at the bottom of the cover. Later, these covers were used in the South Pacific on the Jungle Packs, but they were initially modified for the Mountain Troops.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2RZ1PJBHHo/XvPP7IIikyI/AAAAAAAAOUI/cJlSLZw_HewIewtU9PIcM3q_-yvg0jykACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00049.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2RZ1PJBHHo/XvPP7IIikyI/AAAAAAAAOUI/cJlSLZw_HewIewtU9PIcM3q_-yvg0jykACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00049.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Mt. Div. Cover on left, Standard Issue on right.</span></b></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These WW2 dated covers were only made for a very short time, 1942 - 1943. In 1943, the US adopted the Model 1943 Entrenching Tool. The Model 1943 was the classic folding shovel. The Model 1910 T-Handle shovels were then rendered obsolete for issue, or were relegated to state-side reserve troop use until the entire military could be reequipped with folding shovels.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My cover pairs very nicely with my 1943 dated, US Model 1910 T-Handle shovel. It has that "been there, done that" look, which is always nice for a display item.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You can read about my 1943 dated Model 1910 shovel here:</span><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2016/03/us-model-1910-t-handle-shovel-dated.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2016/03/us-model-1910-t-handle-shovel-dated.html</a></span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before we get to the photo album for this new cover, I thought I'd do a quick comparison of the original cover and the reproduction that I aged. It is interesting to see them side-by-side. The original is on the left side in the photos.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read more about the replica shovel cover here:</span><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/02/m-1910-model-1910-us-t-handle-shovel.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/02/m-1910-model-1910-us-t-handle-shovel.html</a></span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now let's take a closer look at the new Model 1910 T-Handle cover.</span><br />
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Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-26872511804820427252020-06-18T21:16:00.000-07:002020-06-25T04:56:00.654-07:00USFS McCleod Tool, Wildland Fire Fighting Tool, U.S.F.S. US Forest Service, Early Model, Olympic National Forest, Restoration<span style="font-size: large;">Well, today we'll be taking a break from the recent parade of old military shovels, to take a look at a very unique wildland fire fighting tool from my collection.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNypOaYAfPU/Xuv8y3Kr5cI/AAAAAAAAOQI/B9b_Tegb7ToOYOVYlNWeXALtzLo9grQ_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNypOaYAfPU/Xuv8y3Kr5cI/AAAAAAAAOQI/B9b_Tegb7ToOYOVYlNWeXALtzLo9grQ_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00015.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Those of you who have cut some fire lines back in the "golden age" of wildland firefighting, should recognize this tool. It is a McCleod tool. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The tool next to it is my USFS Pulaski. You can read about the Pulaski in my blog posting here:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/11/us-forest-service-pulaski-fss-woodings.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/11/us-forest-service-pulaski-fss-woodings.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had to clear out a patch of burr clover back behind the bunker, so, I took the opportunity to pull out my old USFS McCleod tool. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For those of you who don't know about Burr Clover, you can read about that nasty plant here:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/burr-medic-weed.htm">https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/burr-medic-weed.htm</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was great to have a McCleod in hand again, but I have to tell you, it seemed like WAY more work to "cut line" than it did when I was 35 years younger! The photo below is from my time with the Butte County Fire Department / CDF, back in the 1980's.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zTyRqnHH9Q/Xuv9WWpuOpI/AAAAAAAAOQY/Vg3IH4JLIBovSDax18Yag9IG4-ItsCinQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/BCFD%2BWildland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zTyRqnHH9Q/Xuv9WWpuOpI/AAAAAAAAOQY/Vg3IH4JLIBovSDax18Yag9IG4-ItsCinQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/BCFD%2BWildland.jpg" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">1984 Butte County Fire Department / Calif. Dept. of Forestry CDF</span></b></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I picked up this McCleod tool locally, here on the Olympic Peninsula. It was in rough shape, but the head was solid. The handle was snapped off, and only a stub remained attached to the head. The wood was extremely weathered, but it was clearly marked as a US Forrest Service tool!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This McCleod is one of the early models that found their way into the forest service. The McCleod tool was invented by Malcom McCleod, in 1905. Malcom was a US Forest Service Ranger assigned to the Sierra National Forest, in California. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's a link to a page with some great photos of early USFS and CCC crew firefighting equipment. You'll find a list of albums down near the bottom of the web page:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://foresthistory.org/research-explore/us-forest-service-history/policy-and-law/fire-u-s-forest-service/u-s-forest-service-fire-suppression/">https://foresthistory.org/research-explore/us-forest-service-history/policy-and-law/fire-u-s-forest-service/u-s-forest-service-fire-suppression/</a> </span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a history of the US Forest Service from it's beginning, back in 1905. There are quite a few pages, filled with outstanding history and photos:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://npshistory.com/publications/usfs/fs-650/sec2.htm">http://npshistory.com/publications/usfs/fs-650/sec2.htm</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My particular tool is unmarked, but based on the weathering, and construction, I would place it before WW2. How far back before the 1940's, I really can't say, but it is definitely an old one.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oc9Mp1w53XQ/Xuv-YWDt4WI/AAAAAAAAOQo/N_b5xiYPX7sOBO_cKozwSlgl7NFR7TZTgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oc9Mp1w53XQ/Xuv-YWDt4WI/AAAAAAAAOQo/N_b5xiYPX7sOBO_cKozwSlgl7NFR7TZTgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_1534.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For many years, the McCleod was one of the main tools used for cutting wildland fire line when fighting grass and forest fires. Even today, the McCleod will be found on the fire lines with various Federal, State and local fire crews. The blade side can scrape the ground back to dirt, and the rake side can quickly clear loose debris. When the McCleod was not on the fire line, it was often found doing trail work or other forest maintenance tasks. In fact, today it is still a favored tool for trail builders. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">They are awkward to carry, and store, but they do a great job at clearing ground! The perfect tool for my burr clover job.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fl2PzNrmLR8/Xuv-uRy_cqI/AAAAAAAAOQw/8__rgn7Quu0lHx4qQ9dm67XY-eOfm7IBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fl2PzNrmLR8/Xuv-uRy_cqI/AAAAAAAAOQw/8__rgn7Quu0lHx4qQ9dm67XY-eOfm7IBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My tool obviously needed some restoration work. I started out by removing the broken handle. I cut out the section that had been "branded" USFS and still had some of the remaining red and black handle marking paint. I would use this section later when I installed the "new" handle.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6LIBBJN_Xc/Xuv_BvmYGBI/AAAAAAAAOQ4/WiYJMETJ8yk3dHTzIBcejHgGMemarS_JwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6LIBBJN_Xc/Xuv_BvmYGBI/AAAAAAAAOQ4/WiYJMETJ8yk3dHTzIBcejHgGMemarS_JwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00033.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The head was worked over with a file to give it a "regulation" blade edge, and the entire surface was sanded and wire brushed to remove rust. I kept most of the original patina, and matched the bright metal portions (exposed while cleaning) with liquid gun bluing.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aq5kQr66Hko/Xuv_R6HxcWI/AAAAAAAAORA/z5YPpgvf2JsqdWBmIQ1ETU77kbw88MskACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aq5kQr66Hko/Xuv_R6HxcWI/AAAAAAAAORA/z5YPpgvf2JsqdWBmIQ1ETU77kbw88MskACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00025.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I then salvaged a solid, but nicely aged, handle off of a newer shovel. Several hours of sanding, staining, and "aging" later, and I was ready to "brand" it with a USFS marking, and bands of red and black paint. The USFS brand was hand carved, and then the brand, and paint bands, were roughed up, "aged", and blended to match the handle, and original character of the tool. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The red and black bands of paint are often seen on fire tools that appear in USFS photos from the 1970's and 1980's. I am not sure though, when the color scheme first appeared. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QipmE1BQoZE/XuwAQ8wzv7I/AAAAAAAAORI/1YRvHVqNEbkHOYUMQ6bRERBeEPfKZF_pQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QipmE1BQoZE/XuwAQ8wzv7I/AAAAAAAAORI/1YRvHVqNEbkHOYUMQ6bRERBeEPfKZF_pQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00030.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I fitted the handle to the head, and reattached it using steel rivet-nails that were very similar to the originals.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9m9QKVpWlkM/XuwAjq7xSNI/AAAAAAAAORQ/QI0zroOL_EIRM2LsoynRCUOiE1XSQ4tKACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9m9QKVpWlkM/XuwAjq7xSNI/AAAAAAAAORQ/QI0zroOL_EIRM2LsoynRCUOiE1XSQ4tKACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00027.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The "Museum Restoration" was complete! The McCleod is right at home in the Bunker, next to my USFS Pulaski, as well as out back, grubbing out burr clover.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myW4mFzpupk/XuwAyv3P9DI/AAAAAAAAORU/auDT9SYpQ4ooDpyaVwLt5_BjDkpj_GTlACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myW4mFzpupk/XuwAyv3P9DI/AAAAAAAAORU/auDT9SYpQ4ooDpyaVwLt5_BjDkpj_GTlACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To finish things up, here are two albums. The first is the "before restoration" album, and the second is the finished tool album. </span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Before Restoration:</span></b></i><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">The Finished McCleod Tool:</span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z4FvuZDpwi0/XuwFtt6ZrtI/AAAAAAAAOSQ/3X5YErmu56s_-7kP8qDRXu2iW_Yskjm6QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC00026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z4FvuZDpwi0/XuwFtt6ZrtI/AAAAAAAAOSQ/3X5YErmu56s_-7kP8qDRXu2iW_Yskjm6QCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC00026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-57969828892769404942020-06-09T14:47:00.000-07:002020-06-10T20:44:51.737-07:00Model 1898 German Shovel Entrenching Tool, M1898 Schanzzeug, Finnish Army Re-Issued with Russian style handle, WW1, Winter War, Continuation War, SA and P marked<span style="font-size: large;">Well, here we go with another shovel! I keep thinking that I'm getting to the end of the shovels to show, and I end up with another beauty. That is exactly what we'll be taking a look at today.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love the "odd-ball", unique shovels, in particular, and this one is exactly that. This shovel is a Model 1898 German "<i>Schanzzeug</i>", or entrenching tool, also known as the "<i>Kleines Spaten für Infanterie</i>", or Small Infantry Shovel. I said that this was a Model 1898 shovel, but that is not quite all that it is............ As we work our way through the details, you'll see just how unique this particular shovel actually is.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tvo7a5RL224/Xt_77pwfTDI/AAAAAAAAONc/bYvFOvCiwQMCizyjgLKSr1uPz4c7QZXiACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC03056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tvo7a5RL224/Xt_77pwfTDI/AAAAAAAAONc/bYvFOvCiwQMCizyjgLKSr1uPz4c7QZXiACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC03056.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I purchased this shovel from a seller who was clearing out items that were found in her father's barn, after he passed away. This shovel was found alongside an Imperial Russian Army spade that had been reissued to the Finland Army. The Finnish shovel had the punched hole in the blade, along with "SA" and "P" stamps on the blade, as well as a healthy coat of Finland Green paint. It's brother, my Model 1898, was not as obviously marked, as Finnish issued, but it did hold a few unique clues that pointed to it's previous service with the Finland Army. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--AOuh4NCffU/Xt_8K82N4dI/AAAAAAAAONg/ypWyPOwnVjct4XYQMeoaUUvPVnnZZLOAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC03045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--AOuh4NCffU/Xt_8K82N4dI/AAAAAAAAONg/ypWyPOwnVjct4XYQMeoaUUvPVnnZZLOAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC03045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel has the blade of a German, Model 1898, with an Imperial Russian style handle, and the faint blade stampings of the Finish Army. Which I guess, sort of makes this a "<i>German-Finnish-Russian</i>" Model 1898 spade!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The earlier German spades were the Model 1874. These M1874 spades did not have folded over "ears" and had a retaining ring around the metal shank. In 1898, the Germans altered the design by folding over, and riveting, the blade "ears, and eliminating the shank retaining ring. Instead of the ring, the blade-shank, top metal was wrapped around and welded on the back side. This formed a a sort of "hybrid ring". This new design was designated the Model 1898. Many German shovels of the WW1 era, did not have any maker's marks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This style of shovel construction remained in German service up until WW2, when the Germans again changed the construction a bit. The "wrap-around hybrid ring" was eliminated, as well as the folded over ears that were riveted. Many of the older M1898 shovels remained in service, but next generation shovels were constructed to the new style, beginning some time in the late 1930's. At this time the Germans also eliminated the rivets on the blade, and instead started spot welding them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Earlier I stated that this shovel was a "<i>German-Finnish-Russian</i>" shovel. Well, here is the story this particular shovel tells, and how I came to figure that out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The blade of the shovel is uniquely, a Model 1898 pattern, German shovel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The handle is a bit shorter than shovels of this era, by a little over an inch or more. The handle is also an Imperial Russian style handle. The German handles had a "ball end" and the Russian handles had a taper, without ball end. Finland repaired old captured shovels, and surplus shovels, using the "Russian" style handles, and as far as I know, they were the only country to do so.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The blade is stamped with a partial "SA" stamp that matches the Finland Army shovel stamps used on re-issued shovels. It also has the distinctive Finland, "P" stamp, indicating "pioneer". The blade is not punched with a hole though, like most Finland re-issues.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, with those clues, we can deduce this shovel's story. Here is how I see it.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">This shovel started out its service in the German Army, before, and definitely during, WW1. After the war, in the 1920's, Finland acquired a large amount of old WW1, German surplus equipment, mostly helmets, ammo pouches and shovels. This shovel would have been one of those 1920's acquisitions.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">After the German surplus shipments arrived in Finland, they went to a refurbishment and repair facility. This shovel must have had a damaged handle, and it was replaced with a new handle, or a handle salvaged off of an Imperial Russian shovel. Finland was using Imperial Russian shovels acquired from their break with Russia in 1918 at the time, so a Russian style handle would have made sense for a repair like this. After the shovel was refurbished, it was stamped with the "SA" acceptance stamp, and the "P", for pioneer unit use. It would have then been issued out to the "new" Finland Army (Finland was expanding, "modernizing" and reequipping, her army with "new" equipment during this time).</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">In 1939, Russia invaded Finland, and the Winter War was on. This shovel would have seen service in that war. Shortly after the Winter War, the Continuation War with Russia began, and this shovel would have seen continued service during that time as well. After the war, the Finland Army continued to use, and issue, the old equipment that was acquired during the 1920's, from the old German WW1 surplus, and from Russian captures from the 1918 break, The Winter War, and Continuation War. So, this shovel would have seen service after the wars, during the Cold War. Some time in the 1970's to 1990's, most of the old small equipment was sold as surplus. A lot of it found it's way to the USA, and was sold in military surplus stores. It was during it's layover in a US surplus store, that it was acquired by the seller's father, and then came to rest in his barn. The shovel then found it's way to me after the previous owner's death. And that is the "shovel story" as I see it, based on the "reading of the clues"! Of course we will never know the exact details of its story, but I am 99% certain that the story I am telling fits. We call that "Historical Interpretation".</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just to recap, here is a list of the "Finland" clues:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">WW1, German surplus shovels were acquired by Finland in the 1920's.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">The handle has been replaced with a Russian style handle, typical of Finland repairs.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">The blade is stamped with the Finland "SA" and "P" stamps.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">The shovel was found in the US, paired with a positively identified Finland reissue shovel.</span></i></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">It should be noted that a portion of the early shovels that Finland acquired in the 1920's were never punched with a hole in the blade. Most of them were, but quite a few were not. This lends a little bit more evidence that this shovel was part of the 1920's, WW1 surplus acquisition by Finland.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can check out some of my other Finland reissue shovels here:</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/01/finland-entrenching-tool-shovel-re.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/01/finland-entrenching-tool-shovel-re.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/10/imperial-russian-finish-re-issue-trench.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/10/imperial-russian-finish-re-issue-trench.html</a></span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i>
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/12/finland-entrenching-tool-spade-shovel.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/12/finland-entrenching-tool-spade-shovel.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now let's take a closer look at this very unique shovel. I hope you enjoyed the "story"!</span><br />
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-1478621867213882492020-05-17T16:08:00.005-07:002020-05-17T16:15:13.818-07:00Imperial Japanese Army Type 98 Entrenching Tool, Shovel - Spade, 1917 Wood Shaft Handle, 1941 - 1945, WW2, P.T.O Pacific Theater of Operations, South Pacific, IJA Japan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today we'll be taking a look at one of the most unique military entrenching tools that, in my opinion, has ever been issued to an army at war.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is the Imperial Japanese Army, Type 98, entrenching tool. It may appear to be simple, but as you will see, it is actually quite unique and clever!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Initially, back in 1887, Japan introduced their first entrenching tool. It was a copy of the German, Model 1874, square bladed, feldspaten spade of the time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In 1888, Japan introduced a round bladed, Engineer's Shovel. This shovel had a removable blade that was held in place with a wooden peg. After a short time of field use, it was soon realized that there were some serious problems with this "peg method" of attaching the handle and blade.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel was redesigned to use rings and a rope to attach the two together, and several handle lengths were trialed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In 1917, a final design was settled on and the new method of attaching the two parts together was a length of rope, with a hole in the blade corner and a hole in the handle. The wood handle also took on a very "German" style, with a ball end.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After Japan's invasion of China, the Imperial Japanese Army again reevaluated the shovel design. From 1937 - 1938, some very unique changes were made, and the new shovel was designated the Type 98 Entrenching Tool. Starting in 1941, and into 1945, these Type 98 shovels were produced and issued. They were used alongside the earlier versions in the field.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The most obvious change to the Type 98 was the addition of two small "eye holes" in the blade. The handle profile was also changed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read a very detailed history of the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) entrenching tools here. This reference includes details from the Japanese archives, illustrations, measurements, Japanese terms, and design details that you will not find anywhere else. In short, it's the best I've seen!</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.warrelics.eu/forum/japanese-militaria/evolution-japanese-infantrymana-s-entrenching-tool-1887-1945-a-753444/">http://www.warrelics.eu/forum/japanese-militaria/evolution-japanese-infantrymana-s-entrenching-tool-1887-1945-a-753444/</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before we get started with a detailed look at my shovel, let me point out the most unique features of this entrenching tool. The two "eye holes" and the angled cut to the handle socket on the blade.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> These IJA shovel blades were intended for digging, and as a form of personal armor. That's right, armor!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To use the blade as armor, it was removed from the handle and driven vertically into the ground, using the shaft socket as a the "spike". </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The soldier could then lay prone, flat on the ground, behind the blade, and use the two eye holes to look through. Getting hit with a rifle round or shrapnel, while looking through the "eye holes" would give a whole new meaning to getting your "bell rung"!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It is interesting to note that while looking through the holes, your nose tucks perfectly into the hollow at the base of the socket. A very unique design to say the least!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My shovel was obtained from an estate liquidation sale down in Southern California. I will never know the story of how it ended up in an old California barn, unfortunately, but it is more than probable that it was used in the Pacific Theater of Operations, the South Pacific Islands, during WW2. These shovels were popular with the British troops, and probably with a few of the US troops as well. It may very well have come home with a US soldier, as a souvenir at the end of the war. Who knows, maybe it was an Iwo Jima or Guadalcanal battlefield pick-up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My shovel is a combination of a Type 98 blade, and the earlier, 1917 handle style. The original rope is missing, so a display replacement will have to be fabricated.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel blade appears to have had a bit of fire damage on the end portion of the blade, and then was subjected to some rusting after the paint burned off. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The handle was weathered gray, and had seen it's fair share of exposure, and drying.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The only "restoration" that I did to the shovel, was to remove the loose rust from the blade, oil the metal, and apply a nourishing coat of Danish Oil to the wood handle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My shovel is unmarked, so I compared the weights, and measurements with known originals. Mine matches the measurements perfectly, and the weight was within a gram or two. Perfect match, an original! The replicas that have been produced all weigh significantly less than originals. You can get details on the reference link I provided above.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before we get into the photo album of my IJA Type 98 shovel, I thought I'd do a little, side-by-side comparison of the Japanese, US, and British entrenching tools. These were the three tools that saw service in the South Pacific Islands. It is easy to see why the British troops often picked up the IJA Type 98 shovels. The small size, and awkward stye, of the British "<i>pick-hoe-shovel</i>", just couldn't compare to the usefulness of the IJA shovel! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The US entrenching tool was similar in style, but lighter and smaller. The US soldiers seemed to prefer their own issue shovels, unlike a number of their British counterparts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know this has been a lengthy post, so let's get on with the photo album. Enjoy.</span><br />
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Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-31880501202460047032020-04-04T20:19:00.003-07:002021-05-29T17:09:46.313-07:00Portuguese Entrenching Tool, Model 1909, Model 1911, Portugese Expeditionary Forces, CEP, Corpo Expedicionário Português, Model 1940 Cover, WW1, WW2, Theriaga, Portugal Army Shovel<span style="font-size: large;">It's the beginning of April, and we find ourselves confined to our homes here in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, due to this horrible Corona Virus (COVID-19). Since I've been sequestered, I figured I ought to make a new blog post or two. So here it goes. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have had my eye out for one of the early Portuguese "pick-shovel" entrenching tools for quite some time. They show up, here and there, but the prices are usually quite high, and they are rarely in the USA. While taking a break from some recent research, I decided to "kill some time" by doing some random searches on eBay. Apparently that was a very good idea because I spotted one of these tools for sale by a seller in Portugal. The price was right, and it was a "buy it now". I couldn't pass it up!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">These Portuguese tools are quite unique in the field of military entrenching tools. They appear to be the first tool issued to a European army that could be used as a shovel, a hoe, and a pick, all with one metal head and a handle. No moveable, hinged, or articulating parts, just the head and handle. This is accomplished by having two handle mounting sockets in the handle mount.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The wood handle is tapered to slide down into the head from the top to use the tool as a hoe-pick.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U38kke0mhTA/XolAlZ4qAAI/AAAAAAAAOEM/-k0NNLIWBv8l1GMPU-z_Bc5fPtVYkPj6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02816.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U38kke0mhTA/XolAlZ4qAAI/AAAAAAAAOEM/-k0NNLIWBv8l1GMPU-z_Bc5fPtVYkPj6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02816.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To use as a shovel, the handle end is inserted into the horizontal mounting holes. The taper of the handle end locks it nicely in place.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zfIqDaLUYz4/XolA0XsLe9I/AAAAAAAAOEQ/vA_rD7oxtXcoWE7AiLM6J1GQ2EDLwgEowCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02820.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zfIqDaLUYz4/XolA0XsLe9I/AAAAAAAAOEQ/vA_rD7oxtXcoWE7AiLM6J1GQ2EDLwgEowCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02820.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The one unfortunate thing about this particular tool purchase, was that it was missing the original wooden handle. I did a little research, inspected quite a number of old photos, and deduced the proper shape and measurements for the original handle. I spent a couple of days in the shop, and the end results were more than satisfying. The handle turned out perfect (actually, the second handle turned out great). Perfect dimensions, shape and fit. (Handle wood is Hickory, in my reproduced version).</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G1GpOdOoUqg/XolBKzRVRTI/AAAAAAAAOEc/uJIb1XhRMtU-mwK6Ds-qf9mz7TfvzU-CwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02794.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G1GpOdOoUqg/XolBKzRVRTI/AAAAAAAAOEc/uJIb1XhRMtU-mwK6Ds-qf9mz7TfvzU-CwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02794.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I finished off the handle with a "stamping" on the top end. I had recently purchased a couple of pre-WW1 letter stamps at our local "junk store", and I pulled them out to use on the new shovel handle. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eGpQxS_bIbM/XolEevJkOBI/AAAAAAAAOFg/yDGlwJyMqxQBtzQrr0AP_qgkjunea100wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02845.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="1015" height="351" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eGpQxS_bIbM/XolEevJkOBI/AAAAAAAAOFg/yDGlwJyMqxQBtzQrr0AP_qgkjunea100wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02845.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The letters are random, and don't actually mean anything in particular. I have found that adding numbers and letter stampings, to reproduced items like this, give them a bit more of an "authentic" look.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eow8rVbUEa8/XolBfFk7jZI/AAAAAAAAOEk/qYbhXjCfQt0k_PFbEaOJeD5Rcuy_vOj8QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02793.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eow8rVbUEa8/XolBfFk7jZI/AAAAAAAAOEk/qYbhXjCfQt0k_PFbEaOJeD5Rcuy_vOj8QCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02793.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I finished off the new wood handle with some stain, and a few coats of Danish Oil.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Information on the history of these tools is very limited. I relied on research and documentation that was forwarded to me from two other collectors in France, and some research of my own (Thank you Pavel and Pierre!). I'll try to give the most accurate telling of the history of these tools, and their leather carriers, that I can, but please understand that most of the "facts" are deductions, and observations, and were not pulled from published documents. Published information may exist, but it is most likely hidden somewhere in the Portuguese archives. If anyone knows were these documents can be found, please let me know!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Based on some uncovered patent information, it appears that these tools were first patented in 1909, and later again, in 1911. They were know as <i><b>Theriaga</b></i> tools. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The first carriers used with these tools were made of simple khaki webbing for use in WW1, and a similar style made of leather that presumably was used at home and in the Portuguese Colonies in Africa. The photo below shows one of the Portuguese soldiers during WW1, using the web carrier.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKPG-ciE30A/XolCp0sFBiI/AAAAAAAAOEs/ofzxLVpzQzY0meN8XSS455QIotW-fosawCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Solado.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKPG-ciE30A/XolCp0sFBiI/AAAAAAAAOEs/ofzxLVpzQzY0meN8XSS455QIotW-fosawCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Solado.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In 1940, a much more substantial, leather carrier was designed to replace the originals. This is the type of carrier that is on my tool. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is interesting to note that the idea of a "multi-tool" type of entrenching tool was widely experimented with in the early 1900's, and up to WW1. There are a number of different patents, from different inventors, during that time. They all seem to have worked on the idea of a pick-shovel with removable handle. There are very similar versions of these "pick-hoe" tools that date back to the Roman era, so the concept has been around for quite some time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">By WW1, a number of countries had adopted this style, most notably the United Kingdom, and Portugal. The UK's version is significantly smaller, and does not convert into a shovel like the Portuguese tool does. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The head on this tool is very heavy, and unmarked. It is riveted to the pick-mounting piece using the same rivet style used on the spades used by most other countries at the time.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5_wnjMUVF8/XolDB2QT-VI/AAAAAAAAOE0/ltY7b6-qq1Y4eHQZodROVD-k0MX9D6i7ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02802.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5_wnjMUVF8/XolDB2QT-VI/AAAAAAAAOE0/ltY7b6-qq1Y4eHQZodROVD-k0MX9D6i7ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02802.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a quick, side-by-side, comparison of the British tool and the Portuguese tool. You can see that the Portuguese tool is much larger.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-54r1B0om5eM/XolDRdngKlI/AAAAAAAAOE4/jbs0mm2ECwIAjBNjcQPWUTAJz30bFwR4QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02849.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-54r1B0om5eM/XolDRdngKlI/AAAAAAAAOE4/jbs0mm2ECwIAjBNjcQPWUTAJz30bFwR4QCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02849.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-84y8ZDf_MKI/XolDhUZLhnI/AAAAAAAAOFE/ZBi7-6D75c08fWqgTXcr6Dc4t847DuiHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02850.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-84y8ZDf_MKI/XolDhUZLhnI/AAAAAAAAOFE/ZBi7-6D75c08fWqgTXcr6Dc4t847DuiHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02850.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a side-by-side, comparison with a WW1 era, Imperial Russian, entrenching tool.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wHHtdMam5gI/XolDuty7xFI/AAAAAAAAOFI/ptmA47mhLqcOtbxZ1z7xd1i3ZXkVFf5dQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02847.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wHHtdMam5gI/XolDuty7xFI/AAAAAAAAOFI/ptmA47mhLqcOtbxZ1z7xd1i3ZXkVFf5dQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02847.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6bYz5LrbAc/XolD9asrOAI/AAAAAAAAOFQ/XrdFK1l6f5gYa6aopfaCeNXJvgBg2GyOgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02848.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6bYz5LrbAc/XolD9asrOAI/AAAAAAAAOFQ/XrdFK1l6f5gYa6aopfaCeNXJvgBg2GyOgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02848.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a comparison of all three, side-by-side: British, Portuguese, Russian.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zy72ipxWdZs/XolEUxQT6vI/AAAAAAAAOFc/Hc6HX_Hthb8UnQVT3-dtuctJ_XpZVM1RwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02846.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zy72ipxWdZs/XolEUxQT6vI/AAAAAAAAOFc/Hc6HX_Hthb8UnQVT3-dtuctJ_XpZVM1RwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02846.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The leather carrier is constructed of heavy harness leather. The leather carrier is unmarked. It has a built-in bayonet frog on the left side, and two straps on the right hand side. I am not sure what the straps were meant to be used for, as they are too long and don't have the correct buckle hole positions to be used to carry the wood handle. The straps are permanently attached to the leather carrier. It appears that these straps are the same length on other examples that are owned by collectors (as observed in contemporary collection photos). I have tried to wrap the strap a full 360 degrees around the handle and then buckle it, but that does not work with that method either. For now, the straps are a mystery, and how the handle was officially carried is also a mystery. The research continues!</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">UPDATE 4-28-2021: I received additional information from a colleague and fellow collector in Portugal, about this style of leather carrier. This particular style of carrier was adopted into the Portuguese military in 1940. This replaced the older, and original style that was basically a bayonet frog with two long straps that held the tool head and handle. The original carriers were made with canvas for use with the Mills style equipment, and a leather version, for use with the leather equipment. This later, Model 1940 version, was used from 1940 and into the post-war era (unknown at this time when they were removed from service). The research continues. Thank you Ricardo for your additional information!</span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svvp5ggZ2RY/XolE-f8giPI/AAAAAAAAOFo/trHphEerjtIQu-mJifLkgEXyH8OcG8MLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02837.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svvp5ggZ2RY/XolE-f8giPI/AAAAAAAAOFo/trHphEerjtIQu-mJifLkgEXyH8OcG8MLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02837.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ozXADtOLaRc/XolFOsL94KI/AAAAAAAAOFw/VzRUA6s4kZUqENszZb7zibxS_HzqFbhGgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02833.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ozXADtOLaRc/XolFOsL94KI/AAAAAAAAOFw/VzRUA6s4kZUqENszZb7zibxS_HzqFbhGgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02833.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, this has been a LONG posting! Much longer than most of my postings, but I think it was worth it. There is so little information out on the internet right now, I can only hope that when someone is trying to find out what that "interesting tool" they have is, or when they are researching one of these tools, that they find this blog posting. I also hope that anyone who has additional information on these tools, will contact me so that I can include this additional information on the blog. Additional information, and corrections are always appreciated, and I often go back to older posts and update them accordingly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's wrap things up, and take a closer look at this amazing tool.</span><br />
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Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-61364165541192720802020-02-29T14:04:00.002-08:002020-06-25T21:48:44.045-07:00M-1910, Model 1910 US T-Handle Shovel Cover, WW2, Chinese Copy Aged For Display, M1910<span style="font-size: large;">I thought I'd do a quick posting to show everyone what can be done with a cheap, Chinese copy, of a US M-1910 Shovel Cover.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ECLX-5zWvC4/XlrblVGtoPI/AAAAAAAAOCM/trzfL2dXVv0Wt-6Qcyav-FcYr_FIXkx3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ECLX-5zWvC4/XlrblVGtoPI/AAAAAAAAOCM/trzfL2dXVv0Wt-6Qcyav-FcYr_FIXkx3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02704.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This posting serves both as an informative post, and as a warning for those of you shopping around out there on eBay. There are many items that posted on eBay for sale, that are obvious fakes, and then there are items that appear to be 100% authentic, but are actually well made replicas that have been "aged". </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In my workshop, I have been known to "age" and "weather" a reproduction item so that it will display well with an original piece. A good example of this would be a missing chinstrap on a helmet, or a missing scabbard on a rare bayonet. You get the idea. I always fully disclose the repair or display replica, and make a notation on the item's history file. This is how museum quality repairs are often made.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZBYIJkZ0mU/Xlrb1Q9TpYI/AAAAAAAAOCU/pBX_21FUFkA1aJfvCh1czaYue9cQ5vM2QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZBYIJkZ0mU/Xlrb1Q9TpYI/AAAAAAAAOCU/pBX_21FUFkA1aJfvCh1czaYue9cQ5vM2QCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02706.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I often will pick up a "replica" item to fill in as a "place holder" until I can find an original piece to take its place. The cover we're looking at today is exactly that, a cheap copy, aged to display well, until I can find an affordable original. In this case, the cost for an original Model 1910 shovel cover, in good condition, far exceeds the price of a shovel. I try my best to NOT get caught in bidding wars, and instead keep my eyes open for the lone, good deal. Sometimes that tactic takes time, and when it does, it is time to create a good "place holder" for display. This is what I like to call a "Museum Replica".</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4LBM6lPYtwo/XlrcIFDmnrI/AAAAAAAAOCc/fvl3AeZ5UaYJ_nvDJ2wVH_dHZnQoDJusQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4LBM6lPYtwo/XlrcIFDmnrI/AAAAAAAAOCc/fvl3AeZ5UaYJ_nvDJ2wVH_dHZnQoDJusQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02705.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I picked this cover up on eBay, and purchased it directly from a seller in China. The cover was cheap, and definitely would not pass as an original, to any knowledgeable collector, but would serve just fine as my "place holder".</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The fabric was very lightweight, the metal fittings were close, but not exactly correct (and not made out of original type metals). The printing was superficially applied, and looked more like an iron-on print than an original ink stamp. On top of all that, it looked new. Basically, it started out looking like a Chinese made copy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After about an hour's worth of casual work, and an afternoon of drying time, I had an "authentic replica"! The finished cover looks good enough on display, to pass as an original, until I find the right cover, at the right price, to replace it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I won't give away all my "tricks" at aging items, but basically I roughed this up, accelerated the wear, washed it in greasy dirt, gave it a generous rust treatment, and then did some work on the metal fittings. After an afternoon of drying in the sun, it was done. It looks good enough, and will display well, exactly what I was after.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, if you are buying on eBay, please do your homework, and really get to know what the specific details are for the items you are hunting for. There are plenty of sellers who are peddling "aged replicas" as absolute originals........... take for example, German <span class="st"><b><i>Fallschirmjäger</i></b> </span> helmets from WW2. It is safe to say that there are more "originals" that are for sale, and have been sold, on eBay, than ever survived the war....... if you do the math, then you will realize just how many "originals" must be copies. Just my educated opinion and observation....... (<i>Just about anything "German" from WW1 and WW2, has been faked, and is often faked, so do your homework!</i>)</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">UPDATE 6-25-20: I finally added an original, WW2 dated, M1910 shovel cover to the collection. You can read about the original cover, and see a side-by-side comparison to this reproduction at my blog posting here:</span></b></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/06/us-model-1910-shovel-cover-m1910.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/06/us-model-1910-shovel-cover-m1910.html</a></b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So here is my new "place holder", my "Museum Replica", that should fill in nicely until I can find an original Model 1910 T-Handle Shovel Cover!</span><br />
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-57374754635700816892020-02-27T13:03:00.002-08:002022-02-20T06:46:21.715-08:00British Pattern 1939 Entrenching Tool, Shovel Spade, 1940 John Perks with Broad Arrow, RP 32, Pat. 39 Canvas Carrier, Implement, Entrenching, 1939 Pattern, Dutch Reddingsploeg<span style="font-size: large;">Today we'll be taking a look at a very seldom seen, British spade, or entrenching tool, that dates to a very small window of time, to the very beginning of Britain's entry into WW2.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This spade, is officially known as the "<i><b>Implement, Entrenching, 1939 Pattern</b></i>". This was the British issue spade at the very beginning of WW2.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before we dive in too deep, I'd like to give a little bit of background history on the issue British entrenching tools in 1939. In just a few words, the British had no entrenching tool. That's right, you read that correctly, "No Shovel, No Spade, No Entrenching Tool"!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In 1923, the British made all entrenching tools obsolete, and there were no standard issue tools issued out to the soldiers serving the Crown. No one knows for sure why they did away with entrenching tools, but it is a guess that they felt that trench warfare was a thing of the past, and shovels would not be needed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In 1937, the British web gear was redesigned and the Pattern 1937 web gear came into general issue. The only piece of web gear that was missing from this new '37 pat. gear, was a shovel carrier. There was no entrenching tool, so no need for a carrier!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In 1939 Britain found themselves at war. The British Expeditionary Forces were deployed to France, without an entrenching tool. The War Ministry did some fast back peddling, and selected an "off the shelf" design to put into service as the new issue entrenching tool. Their choice was the classic spade, or Linneman Tool variant. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This new entrenching tool - spade was officially adopted at the end 1939, but was not issued until the beginning of 1940. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">These Pattern 1939 spades were found to be inadequate for digging in anything other than soft soil, and they were very unpopular with the troops.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In July of 1941, the Pattern 1939 spade was made obsolete and was pulled out of field service. The spade was replaced with the Pattern 1937 "pick".</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read about the Pattern 1937 Picks on my earlier blog pages here:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/09/british-entrenching-tool-ww2-implement.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/09/british-entrenching-tool-ww2-implement.html</a></b></i></span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/09/british-entrenching-tool-ww2-implement_21.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/09/british-entrenching-tool-ww2-implement_21.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When these Pattern 1939 spades were pulled out of general service, they were relegated to training stores, and for use with Cadet Training Units. In 1947, after the war, these spades were completely removed from all British service. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For a very good history of the Pattern 1939 spade, I would highly recommend that you jump over to You Tube and check out the video produced by Rifleman Moore: </span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://youtu.be/uDOelExIffQ">https://youtu.be/uDOelExIffQ</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another excellent source for information on these British spades and the earlier, and later entrenching tools, can be found over at Karkee Web :</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.karkeeweb.com/patterns/1937/1937_entrenching_tools_tools.html">http://www.karkeeweb.com/patterns/1937/1937_entrenching_tools_tools.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now let's take a look at the Pattern 1939 spade that I have.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4toVjUxCLQ/XlgoHo46kHI/AAAAAAAAN_Y/9zmkGTSTsoIfIUhraXUIeK7L6WYksiUuACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02639.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4toVjUxCLQ/XlgoHo46kHI/AAAAAAAAN_Y/9zmkGTSTsoIfIUhraXUIeK7L6WYksiUuACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02639.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This spade is the typical "flat spade" that was in use by nearly every army in Europe from the WW1 era, and into the beginning of WW2.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The spade is dated 1940, with the manufacturer's mark John Perks, as well as the British Broad Arrow acceptance stamp. I believe that all of these Pattern 1939 spades that were issued out are dated 1940.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsl0CYUagWc/XlgoWIYMlqI/AAAAAAAAN_c/JUAVFwDFd5MKyuQ0Yqb2aoWnXEPJTuepgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02641.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsl0CYUagWc/XlgoWIYMlqI/AAAAAAAAN_c/JUAVFwDFd5MKyuQ0Yqb2aoWnXEPJTuepgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02641.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is an additional stamped mark on the wood handle. It reads <b>RP 32</b>. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCXDk_GYp40/XlgokCje_0I/AAAAAAAAN_k/jk4vyPq_DnktGJqVETTtLCZZmlJ5Nv1cACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02655.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCXDk_GYp40/XlgokCje_0I/AAAAAAAAN_k/jk4vyPq_DnktGJqVETTtLCZZmlJ5Nv1cACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02655.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is a post-war marking that was added by the Dutch. After WW2, many of these shovels were sold to the Dutch for use in their Civil Defense and Rescue Forces. The RP mark signifies "<i><b>Reddingsploeg</b></i>", or Rescue Service. The 32 is found on all of the shovels in their service. I believe that each type of tool was given a "Dutch Stock Number" when they were reissued. Shovels are found with RP 32, flashlights RP 23, and Rescue Axes RP 4, etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel blade has very distinctive "folded ears" as reenforcements on the shoulder.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2S8tzJelebA/Xlgo1a6slOI/AAAAAAAAN_w/mPj8cqkdwlcxPPKC55eVuWJTkGxgpvvtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02647.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2S8tzJelebA/Xlgo1a6slOI/AAAAAAAAN_w/mPj8cqkdwlcxPPKC55eVuWJTkGxgpvvtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02647.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The socket of the blade is formed with two pieces and reenforced with "wrap-around wings" from the main blade stamping.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BEuMz89Z5jU/XlgpJneyvQI/AAAAAAAAN_4/OV1qS5tKJbM770oqODY8K6Z4D9IiovWIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02650.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BEuMz89Z5jU/XlgpJneyvQI/AAAAAAAAN_4/OV1qS5tKJbM770oqODY8K6Z4D9IiovWIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02650.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Everything is heavily riveted to hold all the parts together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The original canvas shovel covers are nearly impossible to find these days, and if you are lucky enough to find one, the prices are crazy high. I managed to locate a very high quality, museum grade cover, so I picked it up to pair with my Pattern 1939 spade.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4XXo6ny2jQE/Xlgpp4UivxI/AAAAAAAAOAI/yU7ab5s1lLQVqT8hmsRPDf4hvKPSkSfagCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02656.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4XXo6ny2jQE/Xlgpp4UivxI/AAAAAAAAOAI/yU7ab5s1lLQVqT8hmsRPDf4hvKPSkSfagCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02656.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The cover needed a little "<i>aging</i>" and detailing, to give it that authentic look. As I like to say, "The devil is in the details". I did a bit of file work on the brass fittings, and gave them a good patina. I also added a "<b>MECO</b>" makers stamp, a "<b>1940</b>" date, and a "<b>British Broad Arrow</b>" acceptance stamp to give this replica the look of an original. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qvh7MQY43WE/Xlgp33wQ-II/AAAAAAAAOAM/z1qhMaIUnDklXoRJK2HffP2A0LIuX_iiACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02660.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qvh7MQY43WE/Xlgp33wQ-II/AAAAAAAAOAM/z1qhMaIUnDklXoRJK2HffP2A0LIuX_iiACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02660.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read more about the original covers over at Karkee Web:</span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.karkeeweb.com/patterns/1937/1937_entrenching_tools_carriers.html">http://www.karkeeweb.com/patterns/1937/1937_entrenching_tools_carriers.html</a></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Keep your eyes open for these British spades. They are often sold as "German", as most folks don't realize that they are British issued. The broad arrow is always a dead giveaway! When it comes to the "flat spades", these are definitely some of the rarer ones.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's take a closer look at my example. </span><br />
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-67703334898634278852020-02-06T15:15:00.001-08:002020-02-07T04:48:40.469-08:00Soviet MPL-50 Shovel Entrenching Tool, with Shovel Cover - Carrier, 1984, OTK-1, Cold War Russian, Malaya Pekhotnaya Lopata , Small Infantry Shovel, Общественный Товарищеский Контроль<span style="font-size: large;">We took a look at at two of the old style Russian shovels, so I figured it was about time to dig out one of the more recent versions. So here it goes.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qpy5cPW4Z_A/XjyUmTKNoCI/AAAAAAAAN7w/XO6q99IarB0BjSL075naeENn4aDV0-0oQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qpy5cPW4Z_A/XjyUmTKNoCI/AAAAAAAAN7w/XO6q99IarB0BjSL075naeENn4aDV0-0oQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02536.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is a 1984 dated, Soviet shovel, known as the <b>MPL-50</b>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpLnuzN8upI/XjyVDoEecoI/AAAAAAAAN74/uvUrli6ih_8mAq4NXOxrmoa-un_XD1W2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpLnuzN8upI/XjyVDoEecoI/AAAAAAAAN74/uvUrli6ih_8mAq4NXOxrmoa-un_XD1W2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02538.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>MPL</b></i> is the abbreviation for "<i><b>Malaya Pekhotnaya Lopata</b></i>", or <b>"Small Infantry Shovel</b>". The "<i><b>50</b></i>" stands for the standard length of the shovel in centimeters.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VNPJq2dMs8/XjyVTRg451I/AAAAAAAAN78/m8syrFAaekISI_BiJqkO38tptu1k3OQ2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VNPJq2dMs8/XjyVTRg451I/AAAAAAAAN78/m8syrFAaekISI_BiJqkO38tptu1k3OQ2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02540.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These shovels were produced after the end of WW2, and were in regular military use well into the 2000's. Officially they have been made obsolete by the new <i><b>"Ratnik" 6E5</b></i> shovels that were officially accepted in to the Russian ground forces in 2013. The funny thing is, these "new" <i><b>6E5</b></i> shovels are actually just the "same old shovel" as the <i><b>MPL-50</b></i>, just made to a higher standard, and with a more pronounced pointed blade.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read more about the new Russian "Ratnik" military equipment here:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratnik_(program)#Production_history">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratnik_(program)#Production_history</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There first modern <i><b>MPL-50</b></i> style shovels appeared during WW2, and were the official shovel of the Russian forces during the war. The WW2 shovels are essentially the same as the post war shovels, just made heavier. However, as we read about in my previous post, the Russians introduced the "<b>Simplified Small Infantry Shovel</b>", back during the WW1 era, and this appears to be the "prototype" shovel that the later <i><b>MPL-50's</b></i> were based on. You can jump back and read about that shovel here:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/01/finland-entrenching-tool-shovel-re.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2020/01/finland-entrenching-tool-shovel-re.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After WW2, the USSR settled into the Cold War, with a full-blown communist economy. This resulted in poorer construction methods, lighter materials, and generally poor construction. They settled for old style, simple designs, made cheaply.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mG9-zA6ktnE/XjyWXjbv8_I/AAAAAAAAN8M/QBm--KDJazEjUN3ZBp3u73y0lbWeZSg0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mG9-zA6ktnE/XjyWXjbv8_I/AAAAAAAAN8M/QBm--KDJazEjUN3ZBp3u73y0lbWeZSg0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02547.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I say "cheap", I think you can see what I mean in the photo above. The handle is rough, and and fastened to the blade with two wood screws. The socket is formed by rolling the metal and fastening with a single rivet. The entire blade and socket is formed from a single piece of metal. Cheap, easy, and fast to construct.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This particular shovel is very representative of the Cold War era shovels used by the USSR, and then Russia, after the USSR break-up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is "new old stock" and was never issued.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i38-wexEIrU/XjyXUnCvncI/AAAAAAAAN8U/blDk7BMPwM08RsAvec5OV6jC7zyiM4HHACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i38-wexEIrU/XjyXUnCvncI/AAAAAAAAN8U/blDk7BMPwM08RsAvec5OV6jC7zyiM4HHACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02546.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The blade is stamped with the common "3 Trees" stamping and the date 1984 (the small "r" after the year date is the Russian way of signifying a year)</span>.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVieybzgkC4/XjyXhQTKMmI/AAAAAAAAN8Y/IAjT_Yms_jwffKvt1ImLHBXeJV30iYahgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVieybzgkC4/XjyXhQTKMmI/AAAAAAAAN8Y/IAjT_Yms_jwffKvt1ImLHBXeJV30iYahgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02539.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The blade also has the stamping "<i><b>OTK-1</b></i>". <b>OTK</b> is the abbreviation for </span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span lang="RU" style="font-family: "thonburi";">Отдел</span><span lang="RU" style="font-family: "courier";"> </span><span lang="RU" style="font-family: "thonburi";">технического</span><span lang="RU" style="font-family: "courier";"> </span></b><span lang="RU" style="font-family: "thonburi";"><b>контрол</b> </span><span style="font-family: "cambria";">, or "<i><b>Department of Technical Control, aka Mil-Spec</b></i>".</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">You can find these shovels being sold all over the place these days. Russia must have cleared out warehouses full of these shovels now that the Ratnik shovels are now standard issue. If you are interested in picking up one of these shovels, do it soon. Prices are already rising for them, and that means the sources are about to dry up! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">The handle is stamped with the Russian manufacturer and specification, acceptance stamp. This is always a nice addition to a shovel! I would imagine that these stamps were sanded off, or wore away quickly once they were issued out. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">The cover is the basic, Soviet style, cloth cover that has been used since the 1940's, in one form or another. The cloth cover has a webbing strap that fastens the shovel into the cover. These covers are lightweight, but seem to do the job they were designed for. They do it basically, and inexpensively.............</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";"><span style="font-size: large;"> There is not much more to say about this iconic piece of Soviet-Russian gear, so let's take a closer look at it. Oh yes, be sure to go back to my last two blog posts to brush up on a couple of its predecessors. </span> </span></span><br />
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{page:WordSection1;}</style>Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-28132809118396401012020-01-30T16:13:00.001-08:002020-02-03T13:39:18.820-08:00Finland Entrenching Tool - Shovel, Re-Issued Imperial Russian Simplified Small Infantry Shovel, 1915, M.I. Terebin and Sons "И.М. Теребина сыновья", Winter War, Continuation War 1939 - 1945<span style="font-size: large;">Today we'll be taking a look at a very seldom seen entrenching tool (at least it is rare here in the USA), with quite a history.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po5gaeTh5lw/XjNpk3TvO_I/AAAAAAAAN5U/zz33DKcRMiAr79b8w_dU03pkYxBm-AAagCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po5gaeTh5lw/XjNpk3TvO_I/AAAAAAAAN5U/zz33DKcRMiAr79b8w_dU03pkYxBm-AAagCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02517.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is what is known as a "<i><b>Simplified Small Infantry Shovel</b></i>". These shovels were produced back before the Russian Revolution, in Imperial Russia.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D-q4MDKO1n0/XjNp46WyqnI/AAAAAAAAN5c/aruiEzbAg3kRW9FjHHgN6c9-JZAhwSWBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D-q4MDKO1n0/XjNp46WyqnI/AAAAAAAAN5c/aruiEzbAg3kRW9FjHHgN6c9-JZAhwSWBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This particular Simplified Shovel, was last used by the Finland Army. The shovel is painted in the common "Finland Green" paint, and has the shovel blade punched with a hole for carrying on a belt hook. These re-issued shovels were used well into the Cold War era by Finland.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The blade is marked with the "<i><b>SA</b></i>" stamp indicating it was accepted and reissued by the Finland Army.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DELQCterFBM/XjNqL9AU3gI/AAAAAAAAN5k/CFpI6zamm-YR8T5FEISdC7IEOamzVvq8ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DELQCterFBM/XjNqL9AU3gI/AAAAAAAAN5k/CFpI6zamm-YR8T5FEISdC7IEOamzVvq8ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02523.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is also stamped with the letter "<i><b>P</b></i>" which indicates the Engineer, or Pioneer division of the army.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The "<i><b>SA</b></i>", "<i><b>P</b></i>", and the hole, all would have been applied back before the Winter War of 1939, when the shovel was captured from Imperial Russia when Finland broke away back in 1918.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Prior to 1918, this shovel was in the service of Imperial Russia, and since it was captured by Finland, it is safe to assume it was in service with Russian troops in Finland.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is marked with the maker's stamp of "<i><b>И.М. Теребина сыновья</b></i>", or in english, M.I. Terebin and Sons. This maker was first established back in 1908, and was a small manufacturer in the Russian town of Pavlovo, owned by the brothers Vasily and Alexei Terebin, and named in memory of their father Mikhail Ivanovich (the "M.I." in the name).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Terebin and Son's manufacturing house ended production in 1918, at the time of the Russian Revolution. After the Russian Revolution concluded, and the communists were now in power, the Industrialists and Czarist's did not fare very well. According to Russian records, Vasily Terebin was "<i><b>Rehabilitated, Shot</b></i>". Unfortunately this was an all too common ending to many Russian lives under the new communist regime. The true story and accounting of this time of "rehabilitation", was "erased and purged", or concealed until relatively recent times.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmnz_cTPnMo/XjNqwDLJ4lI/AAAAAAAAN5w/ikPUiV3EQGoljioOS2ZLLqBMroYmkCKyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="275" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmnz_cTPnMo/XjNqwDLJ4lI/AAAAAAAAN5w/ikPUiV3EQGoljioOS2ZLLqBMroYmkCKyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/1.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Alexi on the left, and Vasily standing.</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyjZy6sFd_8/XjNq1c6FCeI/AAAAAAAAN50/i_o23IAp9IgFYaZR4NYzeLPfZgh3WTlrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyjZy6sFd_8/XjNq1c6FCeI/AAAAAAAAN50/i_o23IAp9IgFYaZR4NYzeLPfZgh3WTlrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>The two brothers with their father, Mikhail Ivanovich (on left).</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VbGbcsAH1CE/XjNq5vSxxxI/AAAAAAAAN54/BObf7pvhgjo9gqD_Y0q6hsvmjMSdK5iDQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="800" height="292" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VbGbcsAH1CE/XjNq5vSxxxI/AAAAAAAAN54/BObf7pvhgjo9gqD_Y0q6hsvmjMSdK5iDQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">The M.I. Terebin and Sons factory and employees.</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's get back to the shovel at hand, as we contemplate the fate of Vasily Terebin, the shovel's maker.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This shovel is stamped with the year of manufacture, <b>1915</b>, and "<b>MOK</b>". </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TRxBeQ-cbcs/XjNrCuwYI1I/AAAAAAAAN6A/atUQVau9LcYN9S-4VcDIfJNimy_OCLubwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/rus3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TRxBeQ-cbcs/XjNrCuwYI1I/AAAAAAAAN6A/atUQVau9LcYN9S-4VcDIfJNimy_OCLubwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/rus3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Basically "<b>MOK</b>" is assumed to mean something to the effect of "<i>Approved by Committee</i>", or "Mil-Spec". To date no specific documentation has been found that specifies the official meaning of the "<b>MOK</b>" stamp.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The "<i><b>Simplified Small Infantry Shovels</b></i>" were made from the Summer of 1915 until the Fall of 1916. During this time frame, approximately 3,000,000 shovel were made by many different manufacturers, for the military. Only a small portion of them went to the infantry in the field. The majority were sent to warehouses and storage facilities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">These Simplified Shovels, are the predecessors of the later, WW2 and Cold War, MPL-50 shovels used by Russia and the Soviet Union, all the way up until recent years. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before we take a closer look at this shovel, I would like to take the opportunity to thank my fellow researcher and collector, Pavel. Without his help, and the research made available from many of his fellow researchers in Russia, and around the world, I never could have told this brief history and story behind this rare shovel. I apologize in advance for any errors I may have incorporated into this posting. I struggle with researching these obscure items that are only documented in old Russian documents, or research papers written in Russian. Thank you Pavel and company!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now let's take a closer look at this wonderful <i><b>M.I. Terebin</b><b> and Sons</b></i>, "<b>Simplified Small Infantry Shovel</b>".</span><br />
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<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-17162505498878348362019-12-13T14:47:00.001-08:002019-12-13T18:55:59.860-08:00Finland Entrenching Tool, Spade - Shovel, with Leather Carrier, Imperial Russian - Finnish Re-Issued for Winter War and Continuation War, Karl Spiegel (Карл Шпигель) К Ш, KW <span style="font-size: large;">Well, after quite a bit of searching, I finally located an original Finnish issued leather shovel carrier!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3YqBorDYuE/XfQST-FXjYI/AAAAAAAAN4E/_A8Whj44Dj02QIoJpuumGrhhwcPGdoojACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3YqBorDYuE/XfQST-FXjYI/AAAAAAAAN4E/_A8Whj44Dj02QIoJpuumGrhhwcPGdoojACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02367.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One of the best parts of a deal like this, is when I find what I'm searching for, AND it includes the matching shovel at an amazing price. This was just that kind of deal!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e2XFExFJY3w/XfQShRATVqI/AAAAAAAAN4I/wG3-umQUzEUo_NY_kW3pOWhaCK-e-czFQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e2XFExFJY3w/XfQShRATVqI/AAAAAAAAN4I/wG3-umQUzEUo_NY_kW3pOWhaCK-e-czFQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02368.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The original leather shovel covers that were used by Finland are hard to come by, especially if you are looking for one that is in very good condition. This cover is an original, Finnish made, and issued cover that dates to the Pre-Winter War era. This would place it in the 1920's to 1930's window.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BJn26spyUtQ/XfQSs_s_SkI/AAAAAAAAN4Q/upAR8mc2RS4DGmy5Cpw8BcSk3ILbFkrwwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BJn26spyUtQ/XfQSs_s_SkI/AAAAAAAAN4Q/upAR8mc2RS4DGmy5Cpw8BcSk3ILbFkrwwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02373.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel is an original Imperial Russian issued shovel that was captured by Finland after the revolution, and then reissued to their troops. The date on this shovel is covered by a thick coat of green paint, but it dates to 1915, give or take a year or two, and no later than 1917.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7DhuBY-uR4/XfQUgFV2kAI/AAAAAAAAN4w/LdzTa1QbwSQwC_-nawUZlTIjYd8uoGXfQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7DhuBY-uR4/XfQUgFV2kAI/AAAAAAAAN4w/LdzTa1QbwSQwC_-nawUZlTIjYd8uoGXfQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02392.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel is stamped with the crylic letters <b>К Ш</b> indicating that it was made by Karl Spiegel factory in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The factory was shut down in 1917, so the shovel is no newer than that.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You can read about another one of my Karl Spiegel shovels here:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2018/11/imperial-russan-trench-spade-shovel.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2018/11/imperial-russan-trench-spade-shovel.html</a> </span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lT2dN79kSg/XfQS9b0TcyI/AAAAAAAAN4c/nmUIyL5rOmQM9pvjk1iAvU3JAOPJ7qN8gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lT2dN79kSg/XfQS9b0TcyI/AAAAAAAAN4c/nmUIyL5rOmQM9pvjk1iAvU3JAOPJ7qN8gCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02380.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"> The shovel cover is stamped with the Finnish military acceptance mark of "SA" , and the P stamp indicating it was issued to a pioneer unit. It also has the initials of a previous "owner".</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WgKwa7vtoec/XfQSDObUVSI/AAAAAAAAN38/0QtR81E9nkcOnVpeVrIOBG6GC1rxhdRuACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WgKwa7vtoec/XfQSDObUVSI/AAAAAAAAN38/0QtR81E9nkcOnVpeVrIOBG6GC1rxhdRuACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02377.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The shovel has the usual hole punched through the blade, that is found on all Finland shovels. The holes were punched at about the time the Winter War started.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r_N_WdmqtGs/XfQU1qFoXXI/AAAAAAAAN44/1H9WDssl7VQRM9EithAVUWK9oO5kPkSEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r_N_WdmqtGs/XfQU1qFoXXI/AAAAAAAAN44/1H9WDssl7VQRM9EithAVUWK9oO5kPkSEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02387.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Prior to the Winter War, the shovels were issued with a leather carrier. When Finland found themselves at war with Russia, and pressed for equipment, they quit making leather carriers, and started punching the shovel blades, so they could be carried on a belt hook.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The leather carrier that I have dates to this Pre-Winter War era. With that said, it would have been used for the Winter War, the Continuation War, and most likely for quite some time into the Cold War. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Finish made covers look very similar to the WW1 German surplus covers that were also issued out. The difference being that they are not stamped with a manufacturer, or have a Finnish manufacturer stamp, and use rivets to reinforce the corners and seams.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-li3LQnf8MPU/XfQTayvXGsI/AAAAAAAAN4k/ZtoU4GikCa4Hg-blg6IMA6if3JsMRs1ygCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-li3LQnf8MPU/XfQTayvXGsI/AAAAAAAAN4k/ZtoU4GikCa4Hg-blg6IMA6if3JsMRs1ygCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02365.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is a wonderful example of a Winter War shovel that was issued out with the pre-war carrier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read about a few of my other Finnish reissued Imperial Russian shovels here:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2018/11/imperial-russan-trench-spade-shovel.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2018/11/imperial-russan-trench-spade-shovel.html</a></span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i>
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/10/imperial-russian-finish-re-issue-trench.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2015/10/imperial-russian-finish-re-issue-trench.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2017/03/finish-army-engineer-sapper-shovel.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2017/03/finish-army-engineer-sapper-shovel.html</a></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's take a closer look at the shovel and leather cover:</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h8zSv9Yw3XI/XfQM7Z2nGrI/AAAAAAAAN1Y/ZJ10xm1t3oEl_GrOgAn6g98lsJ3nHXSfACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h8zSv9Yw3XI/XfQM7Z2nGrI/AAAAAAAAN1Y/ZJ10xm1t3oEl_GrOgAn6g98lsJ3nHXSfACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02367.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794264883509281126.post-25780055867179241542019-12-07T12:46:00.002-08:002019-12-07T12:48:25.872-08:00Original Swedish Fältspade KLAS, Short Light Attack Shovel compared to Replica Mil-Tec Swedish Shovel<span style="font-size: large;">As promised, here is a comparison between the Original Swedish shovel, and the, the Mil-Tec Replica shovel.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hUySPhuX-A/XewLTZWD_UI/AAAAAAAAN0U/LABp3X-wtrkTiFyfxwXIBj16JoenBk9jACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hUySPhuX-A/XewLTZWD_UI/AAAAAAAAN0U/LABp3X-wtrkTiFyfxwXIBj16JoenBk9jACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02426.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Original on left, Replica on right</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I pulled out both shovels and set them out, side-by-side, to see just how much difference there was between the two. As it turns out, there are very few differences. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W5ae-09xTPQ/XewLkSH9a_I/AAAAAAAAN0c/kd5i6Ic-rHQTB0osk8BMyDe1tCAzL7pZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W5ae-09xTPQ/XewLkSH9a_I/AAAAAAAAN0c/kd5i6Ic-rHQTB0osk8BMyDe1tCAzL7pZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02429.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Original on left, Replica on right</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The weights of the two are very similar.</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Original: 1 kg 33g, or 2 lbs. 15.1 ounces</span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Replica: 1 kg 34g, or 2 lbs. 15.3 ounces</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Handle length, top of the "T" handle, to the center of pivot bolt:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Original: 17-7/8 inches</span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Replica: 18-3/8 inches</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Width of "T" handle:</span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Original: 3-1/4 inches</span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Replica: 3-3/8 inches</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Aside from the very slight variations in the overall weight, and slight difference in the handle dimensions, it appears that the replica shovel was built to the exact same specifications as the original. The blades are identical in shape, dimensions, everything. In fact, it appears that the blades were stamped out on the same equipment, or could possibly be old stock parts.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yr28ugNVRFg/XewMD8CpPwI/AAAAAAAAN0o/ODj0TwY6EiM4qbc3sbOxubzEVr-11KfegCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yr28ugNVRFg/XewMD8CpPwI/AAAAAAAAN0o/ODj0TwY6EiM4qbc3sbOxubzEVr-11KfegCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02430.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The paint colors are different. The original has the flat, olive drab paint that is typical for Swedish field equipment. The replica has a very hard, glossy, "forest green" paint job.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The rivets attaching the pivot mount to the blade are different. The original has rounded rivet heads and backs, and the replica has sharp, "mashed" rivet ends. The difference is only visually different, not inferior.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14bQVQBxS2M/XewMSKr4ZsI/AAAAAAAAN0w/t-1_EkPrg2ojtTHdHZkBxs7bGYtftdJhwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14bQVQBxS2M/XewMSKr4ZsI/AAAAAAAAN0w/t-1_EkPrg2ojtTHdHZkBxs7bGYtftdJhwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02431.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The welds on the joint between the "T" handle, and the long shaft on the replica, are not executed to the same high quality as the original. The weld lines are a bit "rough", with a "pin hole" in the weld line, but the "T" handle is still very firmly attached. Again, mostly visual in the difference.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1E6AdYOJxHQ/XewMigocUvI/AAAAAAAAN08/c9d2xbMdsiUNNzV7-3pGULzIygawRzhXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1E6AdYOJxHQ/XewMigocUvI/AAAAAAAAN08/c9d2xbMdsiUNNzV7-3pGULzIygawRzhXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02428.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last week I had the opportunity to put the Replica Mil-Tec shovel through its paces, to see how well it held up to some serious trench digging. We had about 100 feet of trench to dig at my son's new house. The ground there is very rocky, compacted, glacial till, clay and gravel. He used his German made, tri-fold shovel, and I used the Replica Mil-Tec. After digging through some VERY tough ground, prying out numerous rocks, and generally "abusing" the tools I rinsed off the Mil-Tec and gave it an inspection.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Replica Mil-Tec held up perfectly! The paint was only slightly worn away, which frankly surprised me. I did not think that it would hold up that well, but it did. There was one very slight bent spot on the blade edge from prying out a couple of very large rocks, but that was it. A quick tap with a hammer and it was back in order. Everything else on the shovel was as it should be.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-0a2wY4lOs/XewM5hs86fI/AAAAAAAAN1E/SSeXynY6BBwdBW1KmdBM5i4b6TxWw0OxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-0a2wY4lOs/XewM5hs86fI/AAAAAAAAN1E/SSeXynY6BBwdBW1KmdBM5i4b6TxWw0OxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02433.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2b472st-H_Q/XewNJu9UwmI/AAAAAAAAN1M/qf5RDRdRVEE9Enzu8Sm2c-M9k654R7RrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC02435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2b472st-H_Q/XewNJu9UwmI/AAAAAAAAN1M/qf5RDRdRVEE9Enzu8Sm2c-M9k654R7RrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC02435.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My rating for the replica shovel after hard use: Five Stars! If you want a shovel to use-and-abuse, that is also a "classic", then this Mil-Tec shovel is the one to grab. (by the way, the tri-fold performed at 100% as well). Right now they are going for about $20 to $30 US dollars online. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With a coat of some OD Green paint, you'll have an "authentic copy" of the original (With the exception of the 3-Crown Swedish acceptance stamp, you don't get that with the replica!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can read more about these shovel in my previous posts:</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/11/original-swedish-faltspade-klas-short.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/11/original-swedish-faltspade-klas-short.html</a></span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i>
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2017/08/swedish-faltspade-klas-short-light.html">https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2017/08/swedish-faltspade-klas-short-light.html</a></span></b></i><br />
<br />Sharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10364314710743299752noreply@blogger.com0