RARE Canadian Battle Jerkin – ZL&TD 1943

This is a VERY RARE WW2 Canadian issued Battle-Jerkin. The Battle Jerkin and was developed in 1942 by Colonel Rivers-MacPherson for the British Army. History has it that he disliked the Pattern 37 web gear in common use at the time and took the opportunity to design something he thought more efficient. It was issued to assault troops for the Normandy landings and was used widely by commando personnel in 1944-45. A Canadian pattern Battle Jerkin was designed shortly after the British model in 1942. Only 1500 were produced! With only 1000 going to the UK to supply the Overseas Troops. The Battle Jerkins were used on D-Day by 3rd Divisions assault formations and in July 1944 by RCN Beach Commando. The Canadian made jerkins were of a similar cut and design to the British version although instead of wooden toggles and string loops the Canadian version uses US style ‘Lift-the-Dot’ fasteners. The Canadian Battle Jerkin is much better quality and material then the British made ones.  The Americans also copied the British Battle Jerkin and manufactured their own version of Assault Vest. This Battle Jerkin is worn condition, no major damages. Maker markings are faded but readable in hands, made by ZL&TD and dated 1943. Size Small (fits perfectly on a mannequin).

A very rare Canadian equipment piece!