East German Map Case
Good used condition. Fully functional and field-ready, with light wear and typical service markings.
Genuine Issue Surplus
KEY FEATURES
Original East German map case issued to military officers during the Cold War.
Cold War Officer Provenance
Originally issued to officers across the East German Nationale Volksarmee (NVA), this Kartentasche served as an essential field organiser. Designed during the Cold War to replace earlier leather models, it provided reliable storage for tactical maps, field reports, and navigation tools during manoeuvres.
Weatherproof Vinyl Shell
Constructed from thick brown synthetic vinyl (Kunstleder), the outer shell repels rain, mud, and trail grime. A full-coverage top flap fastens with a sturdy steel buckle, keeping sensitive navigation papers, notebooks, and compact digital tablets shielded from rough outdoor weather.
Practical Navigation Layout
Lifting the main flap reveals a fold-out transparent map window that allows continuous route reading while keeping paper dry. Inside, two structured compartments hold notebooks or tablets, accompanied by four dedicated pencil slots and an accessory pocket for erasers and rulers.
Versatile Shoulder Carry
An adjustable vinyl shoulder strap with metal swivel clips allows comfortable cross-body or over-the-shoulder carry. With its slim profile and utilitarian layout, it offers practical daily organisation for hikers, bushcrafters, field researchers, and surplus collectors.
Organise your navigation gear and field documents with this authentic East German service bag.
This item was used by the German Army during the Late Cold War (1961–1991) and is in Grade 1 condition. It is in very good condition with plenty of life left. We recommend giving it a wash before wearing.
| Product Code | SKU6381K |
| Department | Bags & Rucksacks |
| Condition/Grade | Grade 1 |
| Era | Late Cold War (1961–1991) |
| Issuing Country | German |
| Service | Army |
| German Designation | Kartentasche / Meldetasche (Kunstleder) |
| Material | Synthetic Vinyl (Kunstleder), Clear PVC, Steel Hardware |
| Closure Type | Fold-over flap with metal roller buckle |
| Strap Type | Adjustable and detachable shoulder strap with metal clips |
| Internal Layout | Fold-out transparent map window, 2 document compartments, 4 pen slots, 1 accessory slot |
| Country of Origin | East Germany (GDR / DDR) |
| Colour / Pattern | Brown |
| Key Features | Waterproof, Multiple Pockets, Adjustable Fit |
| Activities | Camping & Bushcraft, Hiking & Trekking, Historical Reenactment, Everyday Casual |
Grade 1 represents solid, fully functional military surplus that has been deployed or issued but remains in great usable condition with plenty of life left.
- Functionality: 100% field-ready. All main zippers, press studs, drawstrings, and buckles work as intended with no critical faults.
- Fabric & Wear: Structurally sound with light cosmetic wear, minor abrasion, or subtle fading from normal military use and laundering.
- Markings & Personalisation: May feature soldier names, unit numbers, service markings, or light depot stamps written on tags or fabric.
- Repairs: May include neat, professional military-standard stitches or minor reinforcement patches that do not compromise gear integrity.
- Storage & Cleanliness: Gear is serviceable straight out of the box, though a standard initial wash or airing is recommended to clear typical military surplus storage scent and minor handling dust.
Same-Day Dispatch: Orders placed before 1:00 PM (Monday–Friday) dispatch the same day from our Aberystwyth warehouse with full online tracking.
UK Delivery: Free standard UK delivery on orders over £50. Royal Mail Tracked 24, Tracked 48, and Next Day courier options available.
EU & USA Tax Pre-Paid: We collect import duties, tariffs, and taxes automatically at checkout for EU and US orders—ensuring smooth customs clearance with zero surprise fees on delivery.
Worldwide Shipping: We ship overseas daily via Tracked Airmail and DHL Express (delivering in ~2 days to the US and 2–5 days to Europe).
60-Day Hassle-Free Returns: Take your time to inspect your gear. Return any item in its original condition within 60 days of delivery.
Free UK Sizing Exchanges: Need a different size? We will exchange it free of charge for UK customers.
Prompt Refunds: Returns are inspected and processed within 5 working days of reaching our Aberystwyth warehouse depot.
Undergoing field drills at the depot. You can still message our human crew directly.
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