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Poster - Australian Infantry 1915 Web Equipment

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Overview

A3 mounted poster showing the components of the 1908 Pattern web equipment as worn by infantry soldiers in the Australian Imperial Force in 1919

Historical information

From 1914 the Australian infantryman was officially supplied with a set of khaki cotton 1908 Pattern webbing; a different type of leather webbing known as bandolier equipment was carried by mounted troops of the Light Horse. The 1908 Pattern webbing allowed a range of equipment, tools and ammunition to be attached and carried by Australian soldiers when marching or fighting.
The webbing consisted of a wide belt which supported the following: shoulder straps, two sets of five connected ammunition pouches (configured for the left and right side), a small haversack, a water bottle carrier, frog to hold bayonet scabbard and an entrenching tool carrier. Each strap was finished with a brass tongue to easily engage the brass buckles on the equipment.
The Pattern 1908 increased the carrying capacity of a soldier and distributed the increased weight evenly across the body from the main waist belt. With all of the components connected to the main waist belt the chest area was left unobstructed.
Unlike leather equipment which would shrink and slip when wet, the woven cotton was hardwearing and could withstand wet weather conditions. It did not require cleaning or polishing, just an occasional brushing down.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-32-99-876

Contextual Information

Numerous examples on mannequins and in static displays may be found throughout the Museum. Detailed examples with descriptions and hands on opportunities may be found in the World War 1 Gallery Cart

Links to additional resources

AWM - 1908 Pattern Web Equipment

Australian Army Museum of Western Australia

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