P37 Small Pack Belgium

The Belgian P37 Small Pack (commonly referred to as a "pukkel") is a post-war, identical copy of the legendary British Pattern 1937 Web Equipment. Following the Second World War, the Belgian army modernized its gear by adopting the proven British P37 system.

Here are the key features and details of the Belgian variant:

 Design and Features

• Material: Made of heavy, robust cotton canvas. The buckles and C-hooks (attachment clips) are made of solid brass.
• Color: Sage green / Olive drab: Used by the Belgian Army. These are often fitted with extra loops on the back to accommodate an American M43 entrenching tool (shovel).
• Dimensions: Approximately 28 x 26 x 9 cm.
• Layout: The interior is traditionally divided into three compartments (one large main compartment and two smaller rear pockets) to keep items secure.

Use and Carrying Method

The pack is designed to be multifunctional and can be carried in two ways:

1. As a backpack: Linked to the braces (shoulder straps/webbing harness) of the P37 webbing system, riding high on the back.
2. As a shoulder bag: By using a separate canvas shoulder strap (often with P37 brass hooks) clipped to the sides.

Why is the Belgian P37 popular?

Because these packs are qualitatively identical to the original British World War II versions, they are widely used by WW2 re-enactors. They serve as an affordable and historically accurate alternative to the rarer and more expensive British originals. Additionally, it is a popular collector's item for enthusiasts of Cold War and Congo Crisis militaria.