If I recall correctly, the metal disk on the side was used to keep the bag tight against whoever was wearing it. On the opposite side of the bag, there was some kind of string or loop (right, guys?) and that string would go around you, and wrap around that disk to keep the bag from flying all over the place.
Bingo Shane! The web bag strap went around the neck only, placeing the bag on you chest and the string went around the back and wrapped around the disk to keep the bag in place.
This is weird. I was going to post my Endicotts MKVII bag but someone has already posted theirs; nice bag.
I have had mine a week or so now and it is in brand new condition. The bag has been stone washed so it looks distressed without being distressed.
I am also waiting for a bag strap to arrive. I have been using my bag alot, but after reading a thred on bag wear and tear I think I am going to use mine a little less now. The bag is very misleading as it appaers so tough, but I now know that you have to be carefull with the O Ring straps as they wear easy (something to remember if you use your bag allot).
I was really surprise too when I read about the thread talking about the tear. When I look the rings and their straps It's look to be really tough. I mean it was supposed to be wear during WWII...
I think Swindy suggested keeping hold of the old strap to use if the webbing holding the rings ever wears out. (Although I've not encountered that problem).
I think how it was stored may definitely play a part.
I've got an original that was battlefield used, and then owned by a fisherman. It never sat around in a box or anything like that. It definitely shows some wear but shows no signs of crapping out on me any time soon.
In contrast, I got an unissued bag once and when I tugged one of the O-rings, the webbing ripped right open like paper, and produced a cloud of dust and lint (this is not to say that this is typical of unissued MKVII's, just that the way they are kept surely plays a part in how they age).
[quote="SpeedRcrX"]After following KT's advice, I ordered an original MKVII from Endicotts.
I just received it today, it's in great condition and I don't think I need to distress it.
quote]
Is that a stonewashed one? It looks great, I went into my local army surplus shop this morning and they had one in the window but the guy was selling the whole mannequin as a set with the soldier + it had a MKVII in it. I'm trying to talk him round selling the bag seperate without the gas mask. Wish me luck
(157cm)
