Lot 1579: Scarce FG-42 Bandolier, with 1 Magazine, Published

Designed as a companion piece to the famous FG-42 "Fallschirmjaegergewehr" rifle, this bandolier is constructed from "splitter" pattern camouflage with thick gray/blue felt padding on the pressure points at the shoulders. Designed to carry eight loaded magazines, the bandolier would give the paratrooper 160 rounds of ammunition close at hand, on top of whatever else they brought down with them. Overall color is the "spring/summer" pattern on all sides, with a set of gray enamel finished snaps on the flaps, a pair of cloth straps on the back side for mounting to a belt for stability, and a strap up top with black bakelite buttons for mounting a suspender brace (not included). No maker's marks are present. The included magazine is blue steel construction, and is also unmarked. Examples of this bandolier can be seen in "Death From Above" by Dugleby & Stevens, with vintage field photographs on page 132 and contemporary photographs on pages 64, 65 and 115 as well as a prominent full color 2-page spread of noted collector George Petersen in full kit letting rip with the FG-42 seen inside the covers; notes from the consignor attribute the bandolier as formerly of the George Petersen Collection, as well as attributing it as the one worn in the shot, being a match in color and pattern for the example he wore. The included magazine is an experimental K43 magazine. This 20 shot magazine correctly shows no markings or date. Comes with 1982 dated correspondence between George Petersen and the individual who sold him the bandolier. Petersen expresses his wishes to use the bandolier in an up incoming new book, which became "Death From Above."

Very fine, showing a few small dark stains overall. All snaps and buttons appear in good order, and the stitching is solid. 80% plus blue finish is present on the magazine, with light scuffs and wear. An important but hard-to-find companion piece for the FG-42 Rifle or a display of Luftwaffe Paratrooper gear.