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Escape / Evasion / Survival 

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RAF ditching whistle for aircrew.

 

The classic "snail" type ditching whistle issued from 1943 on to all RAF aircrew and attached either to the collar of the BD blouse or to the Mae West. US aircrews also obtained these and attached them to the A-2 jacket collar. Its nickname is a bit misleading: it use was to enable aircrews who had landed by parachute in unfamiliar territory to locate each other, either on the ground or at sea. This example is in excellent condition, with crisp A-crown-M markings, stores ID number and retaining almost all of its plated finish.

$85 / £65 / €75

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RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RAF ditching whistle for aircrew

RARE RAF Beadon Suit survival accessory - Burning Glass.

 

One of the more difficult accessories to find for the Suit, Flying, Lightweight (commonly referred to as Beadon survival suit). The burning glass is just that: a magnifying glass lens, 2" in diameter, used for focusing the sun's rays and starting a small fire for cooking or to attract the attention of rescuers from the air. Surface is scratched but no chips or damage.

$75 / £58 / €65

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RARE RAF Beadon Suit survival accessory - Burning Glass

RARE RAF Beadon Suit survival accessory - Burning Glass

RARE RAF Beadon Suit survival accessory - Burning Glass

RARE RAF Beadon Suit survival accessory - Burning Glass

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

 

I had this beautifully made wooden container for quite some time without knowing exactly what it was until I saw a shaving stick with concealed compass inside. It was designed to a stick of shaving soap, fixed in the base/lid, lathered up using a wet shaving brush. When I received this as part of an old collection of escape stuff, it had no soap (probably never used) but it did contain one of the standard escape compasses. When I discovered that Blunt Bros. of London (marked on base of cylinder) were manufacturers of escape compasses for MI9 that confirmed it for me. A compass would have been well hidden inside the solid soap stick. A rare find in perfect condition!

Note: compass is shown for scale only and is NOT included.

$55 / £45 / €50

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SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

SOE shaving soap container of type used for hiding escape compass sent in care packages to POWs.

Rare early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa. Great condition.

 

Once referred to as a "Common card chit" (though it is now anything but!) this folding card "Goolie" chit was issued to members of the RAF and ground forces serving in North Africa, during the early part of the war, in the event that they ran into Arab natives who might appear hostile or unwelcoming. Now a scarce evasion / escape item. Excellent condition. 6" x 3.25" (152mm x82mm) folded, and 12" (304mm) open, it contained a message of peace, promise of reward for safe treatment and a glossary of useful words on the back.

 

$275 / £205 / €240

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Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa. Great condition.

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa. Great condition.

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa. Great condition.

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa. Great condition.

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa. Great condition.

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa. Great condition.

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents.

The E-17 Emergency Sustenance kit was issued in vast numbers to USAAF aircrews but few seem to have survived intact. This is a great example and would serve as a wonderful platform for buidling a complete kit. Includes the two celluloid water bottles/cases as well as the OD canvas pouch and the ESM-1 signal mirror. Rare components as pictured include the fishing kit, hacksaw blade, whetstone, vials of water purifying tablets and band aids.

$285 / £210 / €245

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AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

AAF Type E-17 Emergency Sustenance Kit with partial contents

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews). 

 

Red lights for rescue purposes were rejected by the RAF, but the Royal Navy recognized that they were far more visible at sea than white lights. As a result, these Easco lights were issued to all personnel on HM ships in the event of going overboard. They were also favoured by Fleet Air Arm crews who often discarded their bulky RAF issue white lights for these compact clip-on red types. Excelent condition, retaining its full paper instruction label.

$35 / £25 / €30

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Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

Easco type life jacket light - type used by the Royal Navy (including Fleet Air Arm pilots and crews

US army issue emergency kit, dated 1945, with contents.

Standard US Army issue first aid pouch which would also have been carried by airmen. OD canvas pouch with press stud/snap closure and the following contents: insect repellent, Frazer's Solution (athlete's foot treatment), water purification tablets, razor blades (3 blades remaining) and 3 sticking plasters (band-aids). All contents in good condition. Pouch has no damage just a bit grubby on the outside. Marked Avery and dated 1945.

$175 / £130 / €150

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US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

US army issue emergency/first aid kit with contents

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus in fantastic condition. 

Folding machete, 11" folded, opening up to 16.5" long. This was carried by all USN aircrew personnel flying anywhere near jungle territory, sometimes tucked in the belt but also included in the M-585 survival kit backpack. This examle is the classic Camilus production and is in superb condition, and appears to have perhaps never been issued. Blade is perfect and still has its protective sheath. Lovely example.

 

$175 / £130 / €150  

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USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

USN Survival Kit folding machete by Camilus

RAF / SOE concealed "swinger" compass.

 

One of the first designs for an "evasion" or "escape" compass. This "swinger" was developed by Clayton Hutton as early as 1941 and issued to aircrews flying over occupied Europe. It comprised a flat trapezoid piece of magnetized steel, about 1" in length, with a hole in the centre. It could be sewn into the seam of a shirt or jacket or worn as a shirt collar stiffener, then, when needed, simply suspended from a cotton thread (preferably in a vessel of water) where it would swing and point north. Excellent condition, still with its clear markings (2 dots pointing north). Like all evasion items, getting harder to find.

$95 / £75 / €85

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RAF / SOE concealed "swinger" compass

RAF / SOE concealed "swinger" compass

RAF / SOE concealed "swinger" compass

RAF / SOE concealed "swinger" compass

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival folding machete by Cataraugus, issued as part of the M-592 back pack.

 

Absolutely superb folding machete, issued with the M-592 back pack to USN and USMC fliers in the Pacific.  Stunning example by one of the more desirable makers, fabulous clean blade marked Cataraugus, USA. Opens smoothly. Blade cover retains 99% of its original paint. Tiniest amount of surface oxidation on the handle would easily clean if desired. 

$135 / £105 / €120

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Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Scarce US Navy / Marine Corps survival machete, issued as part of the M-592 back pack

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in North Africa.

 

Once referred to as a "Common card chit" (though it is now anything but!) this folding card "Goolie" chit was issued to members of the RAF and ground forces serving in North Africa, during the early part of the war, in the event that they ran into Arab natives who might appear hostile or unwelcoming. Now a scarce evasion / escape item. It shows definite wear but no damage - this was carried in a pocket and may have even been used to save someone's "goolies." 6" x 3.25" (152mm x82mm) folded, and 12" (304mm) open, it contained a message of peace, promise of reward for safe treatment and a glossary of useful words on the back.

 

$225 / £170 / €195

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Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Early wartime Blood or "Goolie" Chit, carried by RAF aircrews in desert regions

Single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa.

 

Another rare evasion / escape item - this "Goolie" chit replaced the one above for both RAF aircrew and ground forces. It contained a similar message but also some key pointers about etiquette when meeting with Arab peoples. It measures 10" x 6.75" (252mm x 170mm) and is single sided, printed on paper and mounted to linen. This example also shows very definite signs of use, with a few small splits at the edge, and has been folded into 4 to fit in a pocket. Curiously, the wording ends up with "Good Luck" to the bearer of the chit! Goolie chits are one of the most important survival items carried by the Allies and often meant the difference between life and death.

 

$385 / £295 / €335

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Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

Complete single sheet linen backed "Goolie" chit issued to RAF aircrews in North Africa

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far East / Pacific.

 

AAF 2-sided escape map printed on artificial silk dated February 1945. Chart C-52 and C-53 (Japan and South China Seas), together with the incredibly rare AAF printed instruction sheet on the use of cloth survival charts. A standard star escape compass completes the contents and all are secured inside the soft plastic pouch designed for keeping equipment dry in the event of a water landing. Immaculate condition throughout and an extremely rare escape/evasion/survival accessory.

$250 / £190 / €215

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RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RARE AAF escape kit: double-sided chart in waterproof pouch with compass and instruction sheet - Far

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR.

 

The smaller of 2 variations of the heliograph (2-inch – the larger was 4-inch), issued with the K dinghy for single seat fighter aircraft. Though many pilots carried one in gthe pocket on the front of the life vest, it was intended for the Dinghy pack. Comprises a cotton pouch containing a polished steel "mirror" and sighting tool, with instructions printed on the back. Very good condition and includes cord for attaching to the K dinghy pack or the eyelet above the Mae West pocket.

$45 / £35 / €40

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RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1) with paper envelope.

 

The first heliograph type signaling device issued to US aviators both AAF and USN. Although the Navy had experimented with an earlier circular model, and the AAF had used RAF issue heliographs initially, this was the first standardized issue pattern. In great condition, appears unissued with no wear or damage. It's braided lanyard still attached and packed in its original paper envelope.

 

$45 / £35 / €40

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AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1)

Extremely rare RAF / SOE concealed compass in a box of matches.

Since most people smoked in the 1940s and especially during wartime, smoking material and accessories were frequently used for concealing all kinds of escape items. This is one of only two examples of the matchbox compass I have ever seen. A simple, yet ingenious method of hiding the standard small escape/evasion compass. These compasses were produced by the thousand for concealment by aircrews and SOE operatives, who carried them on ops. They were also put into care packages for sending to POWs. This escape aid comprises a wartime Bryant & May's wooden matchbox, with a false cardboard bottom beneath the matches, underneath which the compass is hidden in a thin slab of balsa wood. The matches can be used and the box examined and even emptied of its matches with a good possibility that the compass would not be discovered. One of many such brilliant means of hiding these small compasses developed by Clayton Hutton and MI9.

$250 / £195 / €230 

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RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches

RAF large dinghy/rigging knife for multi-place dinghies.

This larger "dinghy" knife came attached to the dinghy pack on all larger, multi-place dinghies, specifically for cutting the ropes which attached the dinghy to it's pack or to the aircraft. It has a very sharp blade with a rounded tip so as not to puncture the inflation chamber of the dinghy or Mae West. The floating cork handle shows some use and wear but no damage. Lacks attachment string and sheath. The blade is still sharp and well-marked with the RAF stores ref. number.

$60 / £45 / €55

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RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies

RARE RAF tissue escape map, Abyssinia.

Early escape maps were often printed on tissue paper, which could be folded very small, balled up, and were relatively easy to conceal for all but the most thorough search. The tissue was also resilient to water, and could be cut into smaller pieces then concealed in various places. This map shows Abyssinia, part of Italy's kingdom at the beginning of the war. Few have survived and this is a particularly rare example in very good condition, with some minor creasing at the edges and one small hole which is not in a printed area.

$140 / £105 / €125

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RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or flying suit.

 

Unissued First field Dressing, two dressings still sewn inside their cotton wrapping. This packet was carried in the inside skirt pocket of the service dress uniform or the front trouser pocket of the Suits, Aircrew (battledress). Made by Johnson & Johnson in Sydney, Australia and dated March 1942. Great accessory for any RAAF aircrew display.

$20 / £15 / €18

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Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

Australian made First Field Dressing as carried by all RAAF aircrew in the uniform tunic pocket or f

RAF First Aid Outfit tin for large dinghy (up to 10 men).

 

Tin container which would have held dressings, tools and medical supplies sufficient for up to 10 airmen in a multiplace dinghy as a result of ditching in the sea. 7" x 6.5" x 3", painted dark blue on 5 sides, with the bottom left "shiny" to use as a signal mirror. Overall very good condition with 95% of its original paint, no dings or dents, mostly storage / age wear.

$85 / £65 / €80

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RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.IMG_9755

RAF First Aid Outfit (tin) for large 10-man dinghy.IMG_9755

RAAF / Australian made shell dressing.

Shell Dressing, wrapped in a cotton pouch, of the type carried by all personnel (RAF uniforms had a special pocket in the skirt for it). Unusually, this example is Australian made and dated June 1942. Unopened and in excellent condition.

$35 / £28 / €33

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RAAF / Australian made shell dressing

RAAF / Australian made shell dressing

RAAF / Australian made shell dressing

RAAF / Australian made shell dressing

RAAF / Australian made shell dressing

RAAF / Australian made shell dressing

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea dated 1944.

 

Artificial silk chart measures 32" x 31" (81cm x 79cm) double-sided with C-52, Japan and the South China Seas on one side and C-53, East China Seas on the reverse. Clean, excellent condition with no damage and crisp, clear printing. This is a revised edition dated 1944 (first printed 1942) and was carried by all airmen flying over the Pacific in raids on Japan.

$120 / £92 / €110

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AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

AAF cloth chart (map) two-sided, C-52 and C-53 Japan and China Sea

WWII RAF electrically-heated casualty bag for wounded aircrew.

 

Another very scarce item, carried on heavy bombers and reconnaissance aircraft in the event of a crewmember being badly injured on operations. Essentially an electrically-heated, quilted sleeping bag. Wounded crewmembers could be put into this bag and kept warm and comfortable while being transported home to base or to a hospital. Many lives were saved as a result. A very scarce item and the first I have ever come across, it is in superb, unissued condition and extremely well made. Heavy, grey-green cotton fabric with brown fabric holding the electric wires. All wiring appears intact including the cord and plug which is designed to integrate with the aircraft electrical system. Great label indicating that this is the heated inner bag - there was also an outer bag of thicker, thermal fabric which was not electrically wired.

$350 / £275 / €325

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RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew

Scarce Korean War RAF Type B rubber seat cushion / water bottle.

The Type B seat cushion/water bottle replaced the Type  A used in WWII as a survival aid in jungle and tropical regions but is of similar design. This example is dated 4/59 and well marked with stores ref. information. Rubber is excellent, totally pliable with screw-in stopper and still has original instruction tag attached. 

$75 / £60 / €122

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AF seat cushion / water carrier 1959

AF seat cushion / water carrier 1959

AF seat cushion / water carrier 1959

AF seat cushion / water carrier 1959

DSCN9761

DSCN9761

DSCN9760

DSCN9760

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DSCN9757

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DSCN9755

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Luftwaffe navigational chart/map for Scotland / Orkney Islands including Scapa Flow, dated 1938.

Excellent Luftwaffe navigational chart, based, as they all were, on British Ordnance Survey maps from the 1930s and then overprinted with German language text. This map shows the Orkney Islands in north-eastern Scotland, and in particular Scapa Flow, which was the Royal Navy's primary base and thus a major target for the Luftwaffe. Excellent condition. Someone has written the title on the outside cover.

$100 / £82 / €95

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LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

LW flight chart / map Scotland

RAF Aircraft First Aid Outfit  dated 1940 + RARE tourniquet.

 

RAF Aircraft First Aid Outfit dated 1940. These were carried in all fighter aircraft engaged in the Battle of Britain. Sturdy canvas case with compartments for various vials, bandages, tools etc. These early first aid kits are more desirable than later dates and tend to be more scarce. Later examples did not have the separated compartments for different items. Included is the rare tourniquet for stopping the bleeding. A nice example in very good condition with clear Air Ministry markings and date. 

$155 / £120 / €145 

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RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet

Canned fresh water ration tin for the RAF L dinghy, complete with contents.

Very rare to find any wartime rations complete with contents, and this is the first time I have encountered full cans of water rations. These standard water cans, 4.5" x 3.5" (11cm x 8.75cm) were issued as part of survival rations with multi-place dinghies (notably the 2-man L dinghy dropped by Mk I and Mk II Spitfires later in the war - see photos for detailed notes from AP1182D). They were also included with the Lindholme Airborne lifeboat dropped by Hudsons and other larger aircraft. Well marked with instructions and produced by Norfolk Canneries, Ltd. Small quantity available. A few dings and minor dents and some surface rust to cans, but no damage or leaks detected and still with contents.

$55 / £45 / €53 each

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RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats)

WWII US Navy issue life vest emergency signal light by Colvin Slocum Boats, Inc.

As with many items of US Navy flying kit, these were purchased "off the shelf" from the manufacturer for issue to US Navy aviators in the early war years. Red plastic housing and clear red lens, with patented spring clamp, lanyard and large safety pin for attaching to flight suit or life vest.

$75 / £60 / €72

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USN life jacket light ASR

USN life jacket light ASR

USN life jacket light ASR

USN life jacket light ASR

USN life jacket light ASR

USN life jacket light ASR

USN life jacket light ASR

USN life jacket light ASR

RARE WWII button-in RAF silk escape map of Singaporeconcealing inside clothing.

 

Rare silk escape map which has been modified by cutting down, shaping and adding button holes. Measures 15" x 12" (38cm x 30cm). Cut down sections were buttoned inside the back of the shirt or jacket - thus a different section would be worn depending on the day's mission. Map shows the Strait of Singapore, with added printed notations of type of terrain (swampy jungle, undulating jungle, scattered cultivation, etc). Double-sided map with white silk backing neatly hemmed around the edge. Some insect damage to backing silk (no damage to map), a few light stains and one small cigarette burn.

A very rare variation.

$220 / £170 / €200

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RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore

AAF Survival on Land booklet for the C-1 Emergency Sustenance Vest (reprint).

 

Reproduction (reprint) of big “Survival On Land”  booklet (4" x 8", 78 pages) as issued in the Type C-1 Emergency Sustenance Vest. Published by Training Aids Division and first printed by James Gray Inc. of New York. Original date of publication was July 1944. A good quality reprint copy of this rare book.

$15 / £12 / €14  email to reserve this item

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint)

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