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Polyspot Zeltbahn, Seconds
Polyspot Zeltbahn, Seconds


 
: $99.99

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Product Description
 


Reproduction WWII Zeltbahn in the late variant Polyspot camouflage pattern. Our Zeltbahns are exclusive to ATF, and unlike other reproductions, actually shed water.

The Polyspot pattern appears to have only been made in relatively small quantities- surviving original examples are one of the rarest of all WSS camo items today. The pattern itself is a modification of the pre-War "lateral" design. I originally referred to this pattern as "unnumbered planetree" until a fellow camo nut showed me an early polyspot smock which we compared and realized to be nearly the same design. Hence the name change and subsequent outrage on FB from budding camo "experts". Items in this particular camouflage appear to have been produced around 1943.


An original example. Yes, FB, they really did exist.

Our fabric is 100% cotton poplin, tightly woven just like the original cloth. When it gets wet, the fibers swell, closing the spaces in between and repelling water. For good measure, we had them treated with Teflon water repellent making these as close to waterproof as cotton can be.

We were able to persuade the factory to use mixed shades and patterns on the Zeltbahns, just like nearly every original one can find. Therefore, the side reinforcements and center flaps should be some other pattern. We also specifically approved use of fabric with printing flaws of various sorts (smudges,drips, or misses) as this was very common on WWII camouflage items.

Original Zelts used either cast aluminum or stamped steel buttons. We chose to reproduce the cast buttons as they don't rust and they're much easier on one's fingers when they have to close dozens of buttons to assemble a shelter. Likewise, the German used both aluminum and zinc grommets. We actually have both- so these Zelts will be one or the other, depending on the batch.

Grommet note: Like originals, Zeltbahns are not rated for gale force winds. If a Zelt tent is left up in a severe thunderstorm or hurricane, some damage to the grommets is likely to result. Neither originals nor reproduction Zelts will be happy.

Why Seconds?
How they were supposed
to be done...
...and what they did
Seconds? First, the manufacturer having sewed the buttons on the side panels beside the reinforcing strips rather than on them. They can be buttoned together no problem, but we received a discount for their error and passed it on. Second, on many, they forgot one or two of the buttonholes at the bottom below the large grommets. The button sewing is on par with other reproductions- it was supposed to be better. Some Zelts are fine, others have a few loose ones. Despite these issues, they are still superior to any other reproductions made. Hence the discount.

Imported