secondhand Bergam M51 TTA Hybrid Paratrooper French Army Backpack

+10

Used

#backpack • #military • #lafuma • #outback • #paratroopers

Vintage French Army Backpack Bergam M51 TTA Hybrid Paratrooper Bag Lafuma/Boudry

History
Original French military backpack Bergam M51 from the 50s. Deployed in Indochina and the Algerian War. Used by paratroopers of the Foreign Legion and colonial airborne units, e.g., in the Atlas and Kabylie mountains. Rare hybrid paratrooper version. Has compact TTA infantry dimensions but is equipped with the heavy leather side patches of the mountain version. Ideal for commandos in mountainous terrain.

Specifications
Canvas bag presumably Lafuma. Heavy harness leather by Boudy Limoges with deep stamp BOUDY BALISSADE. Thick canvas with solid leather bottom. Rear complete with metal X-frame, leather cross, elastic lumbar support, and felt-lined shoulder straps. With emergency release hook bottom right. Front equipped with fixed tool holder for folding shovel. Inside has main compartment, inner pocket, white drawstring, document pocket with zipper under the flap. Stamps, including 1 army inspection stamp, authentic, but faded.

Condition/functionality
Bag has been used occasionally, in authentic vintage condition, quite clean and no bad odors. Canvas has two small tears at the front. Metal zipper runs stiffly. A number of loose external straps (central fixation strap, bottom strap, and side straps) are missing. But this historically interesting backpack is very practical for outdoor use, directly functionally usable, and can be restored if desired.

Specifications
Dimensions +/- 40x47x30cm
Weight +/- 3kg
Capacity: +/- 30-35 liters
Manufacturer: Canvas presumably Lafuma / Leather marked Boudy Balissade (Limoges)
Model: Bergam M51 TTA Hybrid Paratrooper
Material: Canvas Leather Metal Felt Elastic
Period: 1950s
Condition: Used / Functional or restorable