U.S. M1956 Combat Field Pack 'Butt Pack' Vietnam War

The M1956 Combat Field Pack, better known as the "butt pack," was a crucial component of the American M-1956 Load-Carrying Equipment (LCE), which saw extensive use during the Vietnam War. Its official name was "Pack, Field," but it earned its nickname because it was worn on the back of the belt, above the buttocks.

Key Features

• Material: Made of olive drab (OD7) cotton canvas.
• Dimensions: Approximately 9 inches wide, 8.6 inches high, and 5 inches deep.
• Capacity: Designed to hold daily essentials such as one meal (C-ration), extra socks, and a shaving kit.

Attachment:

• Belt: Attaches to the belt with two metal slide keepers.
• Suspenders: Equipped with eyelets at the top for the rear straps of the shoulder straps, which aids in weight distribution.
• Additional Equipment: Webbing on the sides for additional pockets and eyelets on the flap for M-1910 hooks (e.g., for a bayonet).
• Bottom: Two adjustable straps at the bottom for securing a poncho or poncho liner.

Evolution: M1956 vs. M1961

• M-1956 (1st model): Recognizable by a square top flap and internal side flaps.
• M-1961 (2nd model): Slightly larger than the first model and equipped with a rubber, waterproof collar (tornado collar) to better protect the contents from the tropical climate.

Carrying Method

Although it was usually worn on the belt, it could also be worn higher on the back like a small backpack with special adapter straps, directly connected to the shoulder pads of the suspenders.