Description
The 10-30 B2 was a carbon dioxide cartridge-operated inflatable vest. It was a much more improved design, replacing the full-back model and utilizing a stole type buoyancy chamber. This formed a cushion of air that was maintained behind the head, around the shoulders and on the chest, ensuring the wearer’s head was kept clear of water and that he floated face upwards. The B-1 pattern (Fl 30154-1) emerged late in 1940 as a result of lessons learned in the English channel during the Battle of Britain. The B-2 (Fl 30154-2) followed in 1941 and differed only in having plastic fittings for the gas inflation cartridge and the mouthpiece instead of Nickel and cast alloy. Made of a tan canvas construction by “bwz” (Auer-Gesellschaft AG), this pneumatic life vest is in AMAZING used condition! Manufactured later in the war, the vest has a front central opening secured by 2 horizontal straps, as well as vertical leg straps to help secure the bottom of the vest to the wearer. The upper left side features a black rubberized manual inflation tube and a black bakelite mouthpiece. The bottom edge of the left has a bakelite attachment point and cylindrical CO2 canister which would automatically inflate the vest when opened. All markings on the inflation canister are 100% intact and legible. The original data label indicates: Anforderz. Fl. 30154-2 Werk-Nr. 556913 Hersteller bwz Some of the acceptance stamps are still clearly legible! One of the SOFTEST and most FLEXIBLE vests I have owned, the internal bladder also still inflates!! Sadly, it does not hold air for longer than about an hour or so (probably a small leak internally), but that is quite common, due to the age. Would make a SUPERB addition to any collection or display! |
