Military Rucksacks, etc

[bgcameron]

Good day folks,

Long story short: My father-in-law doesn't have much time left (cancer), and he is hoping to move some stuff before he is gone. I am trying to find some information and approximate value of the following:

Let's start with these packs. They are nearly identical except one is taller than the other. I am guessing the opening is to aid in packing a rifle. Only one has the colored label, but both have identical markings- anyone know what they mean aside from the obvious broad arrow?

He also has this limited print by Robert Bailey. Formidable Fortress "Group Edition" which has been signed by over 100 aircrew and ground crew, as well as the artist himself. I am not sure if CGN is the best place to list this but perhaps some of you may know where else I could go.

Thanks!

 

[CMichaud]

I could well be wrong but suspect Forestry Service on the backpacks.

 

[bearhunter]

Those packs/packboard frames have been around for a while. The last time I used one of those was back in the early 70s, when I was called up for compulsory service on a nearby forest fire.

Not a bad set up really. A good wide "Tump Strap" really helps when the load is heavy.

If you're looking for evaluations, I can't help with the limited print but the packs with frames might bring $30 each.

 

[bgcameron]

Those packs/packboard frames have been around for a while. The last time I used one of those was back in the early 70s, when I was called up for compulsory service on a nearby forest fire.

Not a bad set up really. A good wide "Tump Strap" really helps when the load is heavy.

If you're looking for evaluations, I can't help with the limited print but the packs with frames might bring $30 each.

Thanks! I'm guessing these are for carrying water bladders, and the hole is for a hose?

 

[Old Ranger]

I also think the packs were made for transporting and "laying" fire hose. Did a career with Ont. MNR (37 yrs) mostly in the fire management branch. We had similar hose bags early in my career. I believe the correct name for the frame and straps was "trapper Nelson". Complete with a tump line they worked well for transporting heavy irregular shaped loads.The Ont version did not have the hole for hose laying.

 

[bgcameron]

I also think the packs were made for transporting and "laying" fire hose. Did a career with Ont. MNR (37 yrs) mostly in the fire management branch. We had similar hose bags early in my career. I believe the correct name for the frame and straps was "trapper Nelson". Complete with a tump line they worked well for transporting heavy irregular shaped loads.The Ont version did not have the hole for hose laying.

Yup, that would explain the padded suede ring around the hole. Thanks!

I amended my search and found this:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-US-Forest-Service-Heavy-Canvas-FIRE-Field-Water-Duty-Bag-Back-Pack-USFS-/274553193614