Product Description

The British 1944 Jungle Pattern Webbing Map Case, manufactured by John Hawley & Co, is a rare and significant piece of military equipment developed during the latter stages of World War II. As part of the British Army’s 1944 Pattern webbing system, this map case was specifically designed to meet the demanding needs of jungle warfare, particularly in preparation for Operation Zipper—the planned invasion of Japanese-occupied Malaya and the broader Southeast Asian theatre.

Crafted from durable, rot-resistant jungle green canvas, the map case features a fold-over flap secured by a press stud, providing quick and secure access while maintaining protection from the elements. The interior typically includes compartments for maps, pencils, and navigation tools, tailored to the needs of officers and NCOs operating in humid, rugged environments. A transparent celluloid map sleeve was often included for easy viewing without exposing the map to rain or dirt.

John Hawley & Co, a known wartime manufacturer, ensured high standards of production with reinforced stitching and brass fittings that withstood harsh tropical conditions. The case was designed to integrate seamlessly with the 1944 Pattern webbing system, offering modularity and ease of wear on long patrols through dense terrain.

Although the war ended before full-scale deployment of the 1944 Pattern equipment, items like this map case represent a pivotal evolution in British military gear, bridging the gap between traditional and modern tactical design. Today, it stands as a collectible symbol of wartime innovation and adaptation