Vintage Flying Helmets
Aviation, Military & Historical Items for Discerning Collectors
Escape / Evasion / Survival
(click on pictures to enlarge)
RAF / AAF / SOE Maps Only purse containing double sided map 43C and 43D (Europe).
Aircrews flying over enemy occupied territory were issued with sealed waterproof "purses" containing silk or rayon maps, escape aids like a compass and hacksaw blade and, in some cases, currency. If no currency was contained, they were labeled "Maps Only" as this example. This purse is in excellent condition and contains and unused (still crisply folded) sheet with 43C on one side and 43D on the other, covering most of German occupied Europe. the map was used for evading capture in order to get back to Allied lines. Difficult to find, especially in this condition.
$425 / £335 / €405
 RAF / AAF / SOE Maps Only purse containing double sided map 43C and 43D (Europe) |  RAF / AAF / SOE Maps Only purse containing double sided map 43C and 43D (Europe) |
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 RAF / AAF / SOE Maps Only purse containing double sided map 43C and 43D (Europe) |  RAF / AAF / SOE Maps Only purse containing double sided map 43C and 43D (Europe) |
 RAF / AAF / SOE Maps Only purse containing double sided map 43C and 43D (Europe) |
AAF / USN ESM-2 signal mirror specifically designed for the C-1 Sustenance Vest; unissued and in original envelope.
Excellent example of the ESM-2 signal mirror, carried by AAF pilots and aircrews as a rescue/survival aid. The earlier ESM-1 was much larger and could not be accommodated in the pckets of the C-1 Sustenance Best, so this smaller ESM-2 version was specially developed and size for its own pocket. Unused, unissued conditio and still contained in its original manila envelope as supplied.
$55/ £45 / €52
 AAF / USN ESM-2 signal mirror specfically designed for the C-1 Sustenance Vest |  AAF / USN ESM-2 signal mirror specfically designed for the C-1 Sustenance Vest |
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 AAF / USN ESM-2 signal mirror specfically designed for the C-1 Sustenance Vest |  AAF / USN ESM-2 signal mirror specfically designed for the C-1 Sustenance Vest |
RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items.
Introduced late in 1944 for issue to RAF pilots and aircrews flying over hostile jungle terrain in the far east, the "Suit, Flying, Lightweight" (or Beadon Suit, as it is more popularly known) featured multiple pockets, each designed to hold a specific survival item. Cleverly, it also incorporated a back pack, folded up in one of the pockets, into which all of the survival items could be transferred, for ease of transportation, once on the ground. The pack featured shoulder straps that would attach to the waistbelt of the flying suit. RAF survival items are scarce and the back pack is one of the more difficult to find. This example is in excellent condition, with the broad arrow marked zip and all snaps/press studs in good working order. Some minor external storage marks but no wear or fading.
$400 / £315 / €380
 RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |  RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |
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 RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |  RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |
 RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |
RARE Luftwaffe escape / survival Blendspiegel - signal mirror in cotton case.
One of the rarer items of survival / rescue equipment carried by Luftwaffe pilots and aircrews. the Blendspiegel (signal mirror) was carried in the Channel Trousers or attached to the life vest in the event of ditching or parachuting into the sea. It comprises a piece of polished steel, 6.5" x 3.25" (16cm x 8cm) with an instruction decal on one side and holes for attaching a rope or lanyard. It has a fitted white cotton case. This example in very good condition, with some oxidation spots on the steel surface, but retaining 95% of the decal, which is often worn or scratched off. Case with minor stains but no damage. First I've seen in many years,
$450 / £350 / €420
 Luftwaffe escape / survival Blendspiegel - signal mirror in cotton case |  Luftwaffe escape / survival Blendspiegel - signal mirror in cotton case |
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 Luftwaffe escape / survival Blendspiegel - signal mirror in cotton case |  Luftwaffe escape / survival Blendspiegel - signal mirror in cotton case |
 Luftwaffe escape / survival Blendspiegel - signal mirror in cotton case |
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
 RAAF / Australian made shell dressing |  RAAF / Australian made shell dressing |
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 RAAF / Australian made shell dressing |
AAF M-1943 Type III Emergency Goggles as issued as part of most AAF survival kits, with paper envelope.
Folding eye protection with green acetate lenses, leather surround and green webbing/elastic strap. These were carried in all survival kkits for protection against sun, wind, dust and other hazards. As issued with their paper envelope with printed instructions, and retaining paper sheets on lenses. Envelope has split down most of one side and lacks top flap. Acetate is a bit stiff and cloudy but intact — these are rare to find with the envelope.
$45 / £35 / €42
 AAF M-1943 Type III Emergency Goggles as issued with survival kits with envelope |  AAF M-1943 Type III Emergency Goggles as issued with survival kits with envelope |
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 AAF M-1943 Type III Emergency Goggles as issued with survival kits with envelope |
AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1) with paper envelope.
The first heliograph type signaling mirror issued in emergency/survival kits 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 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 / €42
 AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1) |  AAF and USN issue Emergency Signaling Mirror Type 1 (ESM-1) |
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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) |
Rare RAF emergency signal mirror, pre-1941.
Excellent example of the rare, early style of emergency signalling mirror which was used towards the end of the Battle of Britain and into 1941 until replaced by the Heliograph with the dinghy and 1941 pattern life vest. It comprises a 4" (10cm) diameter circular mirror in a Bakelite frame with a leather strap for securing around the wrist or tying to the Mae West. Well marked with A-crown-M and ref. no. Perfect condition - and with an interesting twist: the strap is labeled very neatly in white paint RST 32306 (this looks like museum type labeling). RST might refer to RAF ace Robert Stanford Tuck — and Tuck's service number was 37306. Could a 7 have been misread as a 2? Of course there is no provenance to confirm that this was owned by Tuck - but it is very interesting to think it might have been! Sold as what it is with no added value for the name. Superb condition.
$395 / £300 / €365
 RAF emergency signal mirror, pre-1941 |  RAF emergency signal mirror, pre-1941 |
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 RAF emergency signal mirror, pre-1941 |  RAF emergency signal mirror, pre-1941 |
 RAF mirror2 |
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 polihsed steel "mirror" and sighting tool, with instrctions 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.
$65 / £50 / €60
 RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR |  RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR |
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 RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR |  RAF small heliograph/signal mirror for ASR |
RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D.
Excellent example of the artificial silk escape maps carried by RAF aircrews as well as SOE agents. Folded as issued for inclusion in the escape purses but also carried loose in pockets or sewn into the lining of uniforms etc. Sheet C and D depicted routes across Europe including Holland, Belgium, France, Germany and Switzerland. Appears unissued, still crisp and clean with bright colours.
$180 / £135 / €160
 RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |  RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |
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 RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |  RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |
 RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |  RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |
 RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |  RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |
 RAF / SOE cloth escape map 1943 series sheet C and D |
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
 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 |
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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 |
USN aircrew emergency signalling whistle dated 1944.
Simple green plastic "snail" whistle, with pea, as issued to US Navy and Marine Corps pilots and aircrew from about 1943. Great condition and a good accessory to have.
$55 / £44 / €50
 USN aircrew emergency signalling whistle dated 1944 |  USN aircrew emergency signalling whistle dated 1944 |
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 USN aircrew emergency signalling whistle dated 1944 |  USN aircrew emergency signalling whistle dated 1944 |
RAF aircrew "Goolie" chit (blood chit) for flights over Russian held territory in WWII.
Scarce and excellent example of the "goolie" chit (blood chit) carried by ARF aircrews flying over the USSR and Russian held territory during WWII. The RAF flew shuttle missions and ferried aircraft to the Soviet Air Force and were always in danger of being shot down. This chit carried the standard message "I am an English soldier and your friend, please take good care of me and you will be rewarded by my government..." - Two versions were made, one printed on paper and one silk screened into artificial silk. This is the silk example in excellent condition and still contained in its celluloid envelope with cotton lanyard attached. Very rare to find complete and in such great condition.
$350 / £270 / €325
 RAF aircrew "Goolie" chit (blood chit) for flights over Russian held territory in WWII |  RAF aircrew "Goolie" chit (blood chit) for flights over Russian held territory in WWII |
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 RAF aircrew "Goolie" chit (blood chit) for flights over Russian held territory in WWII |  RAF aircrew "Goolie" chit (blood chit) for flights over Russian held territory in WWII |
 RAF aircrew "Goolie" chit (blood chit) for flights over Russian held territory in WWII |
RAF / SOE compass concealed in a box of matches.
One of the more simple, yet ingenious methods of concealing 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. Since most people smoked - almost every airman carried a box of matches with him. 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
 RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches |  RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches |
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 RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches |  RAF / SOE compass in a box of matches |
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.
$125 / £99 / €118
 RAF / SOE concealed "swinger" compass |  RAF / SOE concealed "swinger" compass |
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RAF escape/evasion match safe for Beadon Suit.
Small aluminium container with double-wall for keeping matches safe and dry. The lid unscrews and lifts off with matches inside the smaller container. The interior of the larger container is coated with a striking surface for the matches. Most of the original matches are present. There is no instruction decal on the outside container; I'm not sure if it has rubbed off or if this is an early example and never had the decal applied. These were carried in the Arctic and Tropical Survival Packs and later issued as part of the survival kit with the Beadon Suit. Very good condition.
$75 / £60 / €70
 RAF escape/evasion match safe for Beadon Suit |  RAF escape/evasion match safe for Beadon Suit |
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 RAF escape/evasion match safe for Beadon Suit |  RAF escape/evasion match safe for Beadon SuitDSCN0220 |
 RAF escape/evasion match safe for Beadon Suit |
Unopened (still sealed) Wartime British issue "Emergency Rations" issued to all branches of the armed forces.
The "Emergency Rations" tin was issued in emergency kits to all branches service in combat areas as a backup to all other rations and supplies. One tin was intended to sustain one man for 24 hours. It contained a solid block of highly-caffeinated chocolate (similar to the German Scho-ka-Kola). Finding one with all original contents is rare, especially with its original seal itact. as this one. It also retains 90% of its original gilt finish which is rare. Clear instructions on lid and product coding on bottom.
$250 / £195 / €230
 Wartime British issue "Emergency rations" issued to all branches of the armed forces |  Wartime British issue "Emergency rations" issued to all branches of the armed forces |
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 Wartime British issue "Emergency rations" issued to all branches of the armed forces |  Wartime British issue "Emergency rations" issued to all branches of the armed forces |
 Wartime British issue "Emergency rations" issued to all branches of the armed forces |  Wartime British issue "Emergency rations" issued to all branches of the armed forces |
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
 RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew |  RAF electrically-heated casualty.bag for wounded aircrew |
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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 |
Scarce jet age 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
 AF seat cushion / water carrier 1959 |  AF seat cushion / water carrier 1959 |
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 DSCN9761 |  DSCN9760 |
 DSCN9759 |  DSCN9757 |
 DSCN9755 |
RAF / SOE Pendant or Necklet escape compass.
Standard "star" type escape/evasion compass carried by most aircrews and other operatives in or over enemy territory, from about 1943 on. Compass is sealed in a plastic case to keep it waterproof and worn around the neck o a cotton cord. Compass is in perfect working order.
$120 / £95 / €112
 RAF SOE necklet escape compass |  RAF SOE necklet escape compass |
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 DSCN9553 |
Extremely RARE RAF flare tin for the multi-place dinghy, complete with original contents.
Small red tin as issued with the multi-place dinghy in RAF bombers (Wellington, Lancaster, Stirling, Halifax etc.) still containing its original 3 red signal flare cartridges. While the tins occasionally turn up, this is the first example I have ever found with the original flares inside. Tin measures 3.5" x 2.75" x 1.5" (9cm x 6.5cm x 3cm) and is dated 1944 and well marked with contents, batch number etc. An extremely rare find. US sales only.
$450 / £355 / €420
 RARE RAF Emergency signal flares in original 1944 dated tin. |  DSCN9164 |
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 DSCN9161 |  DSCN9160 |
 RARE RAF Emergency signal flares in original 1944 dated tin. |  DSCN9167 |
 DSCN9166 |  DSCN9168 |
RAF folding machete, as issued with the Beadon suit and other survival kits.
The folding machete, issued to RAF pilots and crews with all jungle/tropical survival kits as well as part of the late war Beadon suit. Very good condition and has been well taken care of and kept oiled. Retains its blade sheath/protector although much of the black paint is worn. Also includes the original leather strap and clip which itself is a rare find. Well marked to G. Butler & Co. and dated 1944 with the broad arrow proof mark - the bakelite handle is stamped Made In England. The blade has a couple of small nicks from use but this is a lovely example
$395 / £310 / €365
 RAF Beadon Suit survival - folding machete |  RAF Beadon Suit survival - folding machete |
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 RAF Beadon Suit survival - folding machete |  DSCN8796 |
 DSCN8795 |  DSCN8794 |
 DSCN8791 |  DSCN8793 |
RAF Beadon Suit survival knife.
Another of those hard-to-find accessories/survival items that completes the Beadon suit but was also issued with the earlier survival packs (both Arctic and tropical). Comprises a simple but very sturdy pocket knife in blued steel, 5" long (13cm) folded, with a 4" (10cm) single-edge cutting blade and a 3.5" (9cm) 3-sided blade for stabbing or puncturing tyres. This example is in great condition, retaining almost all of its original blued finish and sharpness with no evidence of having been sharpened. Similar design to the escape boot knife but much bigger and quite heavy.
$325 / £255 / €300
 RAF Beadon Suit survival - folding machete |  RAF Beadon suit survival knife |
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 RAF Beadon Suit survival - folding machete |  DSCN8801 |
 DSCN8802 |
Rare WWII Emergency Rations tin complete with contents.
The "Emergency Rations" tin was issued in emergency kits to all branches service in combat areas as a backup to all other rations and supplies. One tin was intended to sustain one man for 24 hours. It contained a solid block of highly-caffeinated chocolate (similar to the German Scho-ka-Kola). Finding one with all original contents is rare. Still retains part of its gold finish — a special waterproofing which eventually flaked off. Lacks original seal but tin is intact and contents remain. Clear instructions on lid and product coding on bottom.
$195 / £155 / €180
 WWII RAF and other services Emergency rations with full contents of chocolate |  DSCN7299 |
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 IMG_9164 |  IMG_9165 |
 WWII RAF and other services Emergency rations with full contents of chocolate |  DSCN7301 |
AAF dinghy survival Fishing Kit, complete.
The best and only 100% complete example of this rare fishing kit I have ever seen. HBT cotton case unrolls to show its complete contents of hooks, gaffs, weights, lures, lines etc. and the original instruction sheet on water resistant parchment paper. It looks like it has never been unpacked so I am reluctant to pull items out (they are a tight fit), especially as there are many sharp hooks and I don't want to risk tearing the case. Would be difficutl to upgrade.
$150 / £120 / €140
 WWII AAF complete fishing outfit for survival kit |  AAF complete fishing outfit for survival kit |
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 DSCN6637 |  DSCN6639 |
Phrase card issued to all RAF crews flying over occupied Europe.
4 panels, 15.75" x 5" (40cm x 12.5cm) folds to 4" x 5" (10cm x 12.5cm). Later war example printed in black ink only on low grade card with common phrases in English, Dutch, French and German so that an RAF airman evading capture could communicate with friendly civilians as well as enemy captors. Usually issued with escape boxes or map purses. Good condition, some fading and minor age stains.
$75 / £60 / €70
 RAF escape kit Phrase Card |  DSCN8662 |
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 DSCN8663 |
RAF Bartholomew silk escape map, 2-sided, 9Ca France one side and 9u Germany reverse.
One of the earlier silk escape/evasion maps printed on silk using the old Batholomew series of maps, which were highly detailed and with varying scales. Dates to 1941 or early 1942 and would have been issued in a waterproof purse. Two-sided, featuring France on one side in 3 colours, and Germany on the reverse in one colour. Excellent condition, folded but no damage or staining.
$155 / £125 / €145
 Bartholomew escape map France and Germany |  DSCN6723 |
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 DSCN6722 |  DSCN6721 |
 DSCN6718 |  DSCN6720 |
 DSCN6719 |
RAF Bartholomew silk escape map, 2-sided, of North Africa, K1 and K2 (Cyrenaica/Crete) and Libya/Egypt.
One of the earlier silk escape/evasion maps printed on silk using the old Batholomew series of maps, which were highly detailed and with varying scales. Dates to 1941 or early 1942 and would have been issued in a waterproof purse. Two-sided, featuring North Africa, Greece and Cyrpus. This would have been carried by RAF arcrews involved over the desert regions during the battle for Tobruk and others. Excellent condition, folded but no damage or stains.
$155 / £125 / €145
 RAF Batholomew escape map K1 and K2 (Cyrenaica/Crete) and Libya/Egypt. |  DSCN8666 |
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 DSCN8665b |  DSCN8664a |
RAF 1941 Pattern Mae West Survival Backpack (Tropical).
Prior to the development of the Beadon suit, with its built-in pockets and compartments for survival items, survival equipment was carried in a back pack which was attached to the back of the yellow 1941 Pattern life vest. Two versions existed: one for Arctic survival, the other contained items for tropical survival. This pack is the latter, constructed of oiled cotton; yellow on one side and green on the other (yellow for visibility and green for camouflage, as appropriate) with carrying handles and a waist strap, and numerous internal pockets for the various items (last photo shows an illustrated list). The pack is scarce and this example, while slightly grubby from use, is in very good condition, with both zips in good working order, all snaps/studs present and all pockets intact. It is stenciled "100" and named to Flt. Lt. J. Ault 24(C) Squadron. Pack also bears the AID acceptance mark. Waist strap remains stitched with red thread as issued. A lovely used example.
$275 / £220 / €265
 RAF Tropical Survival back pack for 1941 pattern Mae West |  RAF Tropical Survival back pack for 1941 pattern Mae West |
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 RAF Tropical Survival back pack for 1941 pattern Mae West |
RAF large dinghy/rigging knife for multi-place dinghies.
The "dinghy" knife which 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, but a rounded tip so as not to puncture the inflation chamber of the dinghy or Mae West. Shows use and some wear (it was there!) to the floating cork handle but no serious damage. The blade, as mentioned, is still sharp and well-marked with the RAF stores ref. number.
$65 / £45 / €55
 RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies |  RAF large dinghy knife for multi-place dinghies |
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 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 than 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.
$150 / £125 / €140
 RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia |  RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia |
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 RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia |  RARE RAF Tissue Escape Map - Abyssynia |
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
 LW flight chart / map Scotland |  LW flight chart / map Scotland |
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 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
 RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet |  RAF aircraft First Aid Outfit + tourniquet |
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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 |
RARE RAF Type C dinghy container dated 1940, used by Bristol Blenheim fighter crews during the Battle of Britain.
Extremely rare RAF survival item—the stowage container for the Type C dinghy. At the time of its introduction into service, the Type C dinghy was one of only two types that used a gas-inflated system and was quickly superseded by the Type M, so it had a relatively short service life. It was a triangular dinghy made from rubberized silk fabric, designed for a maximum of 3 occupants, and was primarily used on the Blenheim fighter and bomber (Blenheim I fighters saw action during the Battle of Britain). This version of the pack was designed to float and and could be quickly activated by pulling the gas cartridge lever - the pack would break away. The case has built-in flotation pads inside compartments around which the folded dinghy would be packed, as well as compartments for paddles etc. Very good condition with no damage, the built-in flotation pads are a bit crumbly but still complete. Case is well-marked with Air Ministry nomenclature and dated 1940. A very rare accessory. Note: dinghy NOT included.
$525 / £465 / €540
 RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |  RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |
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 RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |  RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |
 RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |  RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |
 RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |  RAF pack for Type C dinghy: Bristol Blenheim 1940 |
 RAF pack for Type C dinghy |
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
 RAF emergency drinking water - full can (dropped by Spitfires and in Lindolme boats) |
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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) |
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
 USN life jacket light ASR |  USN life jacket light ASR |
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 USN life jacket light ASR |  USN life jacket light ASR |
RAF Beadon Suit aluminium container for 7 cigarettes.
Olive green aluminium tin, 3" (8cm) in length with screw top marked with stores ref number and labeled 7 cigarettes. This was part of the Beadon suit survival kit (cigarettes for survival!). No contents. A scarce survival item. Unissued condition.
$75 / £60 / €72
 RAF BEado Suit survival kit - small tin for 7 cigarettes |
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 RAF BEado Suit survival kit - small tin for 7 cigarettes |
 RAF BEado Suit survival kit - small tin for 7 cigarettes |
 RAF BEado Suit survival kit - small tin for 7 cigarettes |
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
 RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore |  RAF "button-in" silk escape map, Singapore |
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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 |
RARE early US Army Air Corps Type F-1 Flyers Emergency Sustenance Case with lid.
First approved for issue in 1940 and superseded by early 1943, this is the first of this type of Emergency Sustenance kit for aviators I have ever come across. Made from heavy rubberized canvas painted with silver aircraft dope (similar to balloon fabric) and well marked, the kit measures 13" x 8" x 2" and was designated a "Forced Landing Kit." It originally contained a tin of rations and a larger tin containing a flashlight, compass, hunting knife, fishing line and hooks, plus first aid kit. A very AAC / AAF survival item in grubby but very good condition, including its handle and lid. Worth noting also is that every multiplace US aircraft sent to England under Lease Lend would have been equipped with one of these cases; this would include the Hudsons, Flying Fortresses, Mitchells etc. used by the RAF.
$120 / £88 / €100
 AAF F-1 Sustenance kit case |  AAF F-1 Sustenance kit case |
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 AAF F-1 Sustenance kit case |  AAF F-1 Sustenance kit case |
US Navy Emergency Drinking Water Kit, dated 1945.
Very scarce accessory for the US Navy Pararaft and Survival back pack. Complete, unopened and still sealed Drinking Water Kit for distilling drinking water from sea water. Dated July 1945 and in excellent conditon, with no dings or dents, just a few minor surface scratches. It even includes a small envelope containing extension tapes for fitting in the early M-592 back pad kits. Also still attached to its rope lanyard for securing it to the pack.
$95 / £72 / €80 email to secure this item
 USN emergency water kit. |  USN emergency water kit. |
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 USN emergency water kit. |  DSCN4231USN emergency water kit. |
 USN emergency water kit. |
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.
£12 / $15 / €14 email to reserve this item
 AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint) |
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 AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint) |
 AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint) |
 AAF C-1 Vest large manual (reprint) |
USAF LRU/16P one man life raft as carried by fighter pilots flying the F-16 fighting Falcon.
Manufactured January, 1996, and with test dates up to October 2011, this modern one-man life raft clearly traces in lineage back to WWIi, being very similar in design, but with a splash cover that fastens with velcro and construction from waterproofed nylon rather than rubberized linen. In excellent condition, the boat is overall deep sea blue in colour for camouflage, but the splash cover opens up to show neon orange for hi-visibility when friendly ships or aircraft are in the vicinity. No damage that I can see, and no visible evidence of use. Modern survival equipment is quite difficult to source.
£120 / $150 / €130 email to secure this item
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
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 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |
 USAF LRU/16P life raft for F-16 |