37 Pattern Webbing

This is the standard issue load bearing equipment issued to all Airborne soldiers, all elements being the same as infantry issue.  We have some spare webbing that new members can use to get started.  All webbing should have brass fittings, not black pot metal or chrome, as those as post war versions.  Below is a complete web set, you can build it as you go along and simply use what you have.  The below example is standard issue for those equipped with Enfield rifles, bren guns or Sten gunners.  Although the sten MKII used a different bayonet, you can still carry the spike providing you have the later pattern e-tool which clips on to the spike bayonet for mine clearing.  For Bren gunners, add a 37 pattern holster.

• Web Belt
• Cross Straps
• Bren Pouches MK3 (with brass poppers)
  
• E-tool and cover
• Bayonet frog and spike bayonet
• Water Bottle (with sleeve or envelope carrier)
• Lightweight gas mask and bag
• Toggle Rope
• Small Pack and L Straps
• Ground sheet

The last item is mentioned here because as standard it was carried in the top of the small pack, held down by the lid and straps, therefore clearly visible at all times.  The ground sheet is an expensive item compared to all other items on the list above, luckily, it is not absolutely necessary, though is recommended once you have the rest of your kit.

The webbing is almost identical no matter what role you play within the airborne forces.  Even officers, who would normally carry a rather different officer specific set, would often opt for the standard enlisted mans set, most likely to not mark them out as officers to enemy fire.

There are additional items of webbing which will be used for specific roles, such as auxiliary pouches for carrying additional bren mags or mortar rounds (for the relevant weapons assistant), or medics satchels etc.  Additional equipment such as this will only be relevant to specific roles and therefore discussed and allocated by the organizers or on the day of an event.

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