M43 Feldflasche

The term "M43 German canteen" typically refers to late-war variations of the standard M31 canteen produced in or around 1943, rather than a distinct, officially designated "M43" model with entirely new specifications. Production during this period saw the introduction of cost-saving materials and simplified designs due to wartime shortages. While earlier canteens were aluminum, 1943 production saw a transition to enameled or red-painted steel to conserve aluminum. Some unique variants, known as "coconut" canteens (named for their appearance), featured an aluminum flask encased in a pressed-wood or bakelite shell for added durability and insulation. Cups were often made of green or red-painted steel or black, green, or orange plastic (bakelite), replacing the earlier aluminum cups. The standard wool felt covers became coarser and were occasionally made from Italian uniform cloth (gabardine) or other varied materials as the war progressed. The cover closure system was simplified, sometimes omitting one of the four original press studs in very late-war production.

This item:
Late war M43 canteen out of the woodworks!. A steel late war canteen with bakelite drinking mug (dated 1942), bakelite cap and cover which is made from late war gabardine material. In stead of the standard 4-press buttons closure, this typical late war model has only 3 of these press buttons. This is a typical barn find example, salty and "found as is" condition. The leather supporting loop is loose on one side but over all this canteen is in a very nice and complete condition.