A.B.L. P-37 Basic Pouches

A.B.L. P-37 Basic Pouches are Belgian ammunition pouches produced during the Cold War (mainly in the 1950s and 60s). They are direct, high-quality copies of the iconic British Pattern 1937 (P37) Mk III Web Equipment from the Second World War. "A.B.L." stands for Armée Belge / Belgisch Leger, indicating official use by the Belgian Armed Forces.

Key Specifications & Design

• Design: These pouches are virtually identical to the British Mk III variant. This model is slightly taller than earlier wartime versions to accommodate longer submachine gun magazines.
• Dimensions: They measure approximately 25.5 x 10 x 6.5 cm (10" x 4" x 2.5").
• Material: Made of extremely durable, heavy-duty cotton canvas (webbing).
• Fittings: Equipped with robust solid brass hardware, including two double brass C-hooks on the back for attachment to the utility belt, and a buckle at the top for the shoulder straps.
• Closure: Depending on the production period, they feature a traditional brass snap fastener or a fabric pull-tab quick-release closure.

Tactical Capacity

The pouches were worn in pairs on the chest (one left, one right of the belt buckle) and were designed to carry:

• 30-round Bren gun magazines
• Sten gun or Thompson submachine gun magazines
• Clips or bandoliers with .303 ammunition for Lee-Enfield rifles
• Loose hand grenades (such as the No. 36 Mills Bomb)

Variants & Stampings

• Army (Khaki/Green cotton): The standard infantry version has a greenish/khaki color. This variant was used, among others, by the Belgian Para-commandos during post-colonial conflicts in Africa. They are usually stamped under the flap with "A.B.L.", the year, and the manufacturer (such as TAWO).
• Air Force (Blue-grey): A specific variant made of blue-grey canvas, issued exclusively to the Belgian Air Force.