Blue Cover, OHW 41 Marked Canteen - What is it?

[regular122]

I picked this up in Kansas on a recent trip. It came from a LTC Frederick Hess, US Army, ETO. He shipped home a footlocker from Stuttgart in late 45. This was in it along with an army brown canteen, mess kit, and zeltbahn. I have no idea if they were from a single German soldier or not.

The canteen is marked OHW 41 on the neck. I can't get a good pic of it because I was afraid to open the buckle. The leather is intact but very stiff. The canteen is all there but metal parts have rusted a bit.

Does anyone know who would have used this type of canteen? Thanks, Steve

[regular122]

Pic 2/4

[regular122]

Pic 3/4

[regular122]

Pic 4/4

[Frank Schneider]

Steve,

I think Hitler Youth used these. Because of the blue colour they are often offered as Luftwaffe, but I don't think that is the case.

Frank.

[Michael Kuligowski]

You are right Frank !!!

its paramilitary canteen maybe NSFK etc...

[CWP]

I agree with Michael and Frank. Marine HJ has been suggested in the past.

[regular122]

Thanks guys. I had wondered about the HJ possibilities.

How common are these compared to the standard Army canteens?

And does anyone know the firm OHW?

Steve

[Michael N]

I have exactly one like that, I have to find it to see the maker.

I dont think they are as common as the regular canteens. At least from what I have seen until now.

[Frank Schneider]

Less common, but also less in demand.....

[CWP]

I agree with Frank, far more rare than a standard Heer canteen, but probably less valuable.

[regular122]

Thanks guys. Anyone know what the initials OHW stand for? I couldn't find them in my limited code book. Thanks, Steve

[Shigella]

This canteen is for DLV (Deutsche LuftsportsVerbände).

[corporalSteiner]

i have something very similar but the cover has a zipper, no poppers.