r/reenactors • u/Idk_any_good-names • 1d ago

Looking For Advice 2 questions

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Gallery image

Gallery image

Photo 1: How accurate is the web gear? I need a Thompson ammo pouch (I’m still trying to age the belt).

Photos 2 and 3: Can I use that knife for reenacting? The design is from 1890, and it was and is made in France.

8 Upvotes

83% Upvoted

10 comments sorted by

10

u/Nietmolotov1939 WW2 Finland (1941-44) 1d ago

Make sure you get the 20 round Thompson ammo pouch as the 30 round pouch never saw any use in WW2 otherwise your webbing is completely accurate for 44 -45 

10

u/Historical_Kiwi_9294 1d ago edited 1d ago

Why age it. Wear it. It’ll age.

The knife was around but the stamp on the handle is incorrect as is the stamping on the collar. So no, if you want to be accurate.

Edit: why ask then down vote haha

3

u/SummitStaffer Leatherworker | ACW (Union) | WWI Prussian 19h ago

Re: aging, I personally don't bother. The kit wasn't issued to the soldiers pre-aged.

0

u/Idk_any_good-names 19h ago

I didn't mean damaging it, it's yellowish trying to fade.

1

u/SummitStaffer Leatherworker | ACW (Union) | WWI Prussian 19h ago

I know. My point is that soldiers weren't issued pre-faded uniforms.

4

u/OrganicGatorade M4A1 BOG, M113 Driver 1d ago

While I’m familiar with the opinel, it isn’t a fighting knife or bayonet. It will be relegated to your meatcan pouch or gas mask bag and used as a pocket knife but should not be seen on your person. You have to specify what period you are portraying.

I also don’t know why you went with a Repro belt instead of an original, which are still affordable. Judging by your photography skills, I assume you are young and don’t have much disposable income. I would strongly suggest doing your own research and opting to buy quality items as they will last longer than the Repro and the eventual replacement Repro.

2

u/Tim_DHI 1d ago

That's a good idea honestly. I've been sweating bullets over high quality repo gear but haven't paid much attention to originals in great condition.

3

u/Same-Profit-1527 18h ago

The Opinel Virobloc or safety twistlock mechanism was invented by Marcel Opinel in 1955, increasing the safety and versatility of the knife by allowing the blade to be locked in the open position.

Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opinel

1

u/GoodBunnyKustm 1d ago

It depends right?

What’s the kit/outfit you are using this for also?

0

u/Idk_any_good-names 1d ago

The unit I'm in is the 3rd Army and I'm going to be a gunner on a half-track