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US Pattern 1902 Canteen


Gildwiller1918

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In WW1-to present the US military uses the (M1910) metal, then later plastic canteens that had a flat bottom with a cup and looked like an enlarged flask. Before that however the US used round canteens that were based upon Civil War era designs. One such design was the pattern 1902 canteen. This canteen differed from the 1850's and 1870's model in that it had a convex depression on one side to fit more snug against the wearer. Also in 1903 the leather shoulder harness was eliminated in favor of a short "V" shaped canvas strap that hooked onto the canteen at 2 points and fastened to the web & cartridge belts. 

In 1909 the US military tested a new set of field gear, which a year later became the M1910 model gear. The new canteens were made from spun aluminum originally, later two halves were welded together instead. The M1910 canteen was well liked and user friendly, and the older M1902 canteens were regulated to training and national guard use. However when the US entered WW1, equipment shortages were evident. Front line troops were to use the M1910 gear, troops in rear action/support roles and some state national guard units used older gear such as this canteen if the M1910 gear was not available. This was the same for a lot of older gear and weapons, they were used up until the newer items could be produced in quantities vast enough. 

Below is the M1902 Canteen, the cover has "U.S." ink stamped on one side, no date (not uncommon). The "V" shaped strap has "R.I.A. (Rock Island Arsenal) 1906" stamped on it. A good example of older gear being repurposed. Last picture is the M1910 canteen for reference.

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