An improved version of the earlier M1 and M1A1 man-portable flame thrower units developed by the U.S. in the early 1940s, the M2 became the standard flamethrower used by U.S. forces through the last year of World War II, and continued use through the Korean and Vietnam Wars until it was phased out for the lighter M9. Unlike the electric ignition of the earlier M1 series, the M2 series utilized a spring loaded, match lit, five cell ignition cylinder installed within the ignition head of the "-2" designated wand (or gun group), which proved to be a more reliable source of ignition than the former. In U.S. service, the flame thrower was used against dug in fortifications and tunnels, utilizing not only the heat generated by its projection but also the suffocating effects of the flames within confined spaces to incapacitate enemy combatants. The M2's most noteworthy and extensive service was with the Marines and GIs of the Pacific island hopping campaign of World War II, where flame throwers were used alongside demolition teams to form specialized "corkscrew and blowtorch" tactics against the Imperial Japanese. Features a World War II era "hourglass" tube steel pack frame with OD green web backing and quick detach shoulder straps, two fuel tanks with World War II era M2 pattern brass fuel cap and deflector tube fitted, central pressure tank, a "CHEMICAL WARFARE SERVICE U.S.A." cast aluminum "-2" wand, and fuel hose. Includes a OD green painted hardwood transport crate marked "CHEMICAL WARFARE SERVICE/PORTABLE FLAME THROWER M2A1-2", and a service kit housed in a green painted hardwood case, marked "FARE SERVICE/FOR/THROWER M2-2" containing a variety of spare parts and tools (both loose and sealed), many of which have been out of production for decades and can be difficult to find.

Fine as professionally restored, with 75% plus re-applied OD green paint retained with some scattered mild chipping, some older layers pf pint visible, some scattered light areas of visible spotting/brown patina, some light fraying and staining on the web harness, and scattered light handling marks. The wand is fine with 70% re-applied OD green paint with light flaking, some light patches of visible spotting, and some grey patina on the aluminum components. The wand's grip safety, valve lever, and trigger rod appear mechanically sound. A seldom seen, but immediately recognizable historic piece that would greatly enhance any U.S. military collection or museum display!