WWI Officer Musette Bag

The bag is constructed from cotton with a leather bottom. It features brass hardware. The cotton is tough, but not as thick as canvas. The leather is soft and pliable.

The bag measures approximately 13x17 inches. It is deep and wide, and can hold a significant amount of items. Some bags measure 33x33x12cm, which is about 13x13x4-3/4 inches. It is larger than the pictures indicate.

The bag is suitable for reenactment and living history, and is also widely used as an everyday bag. It can carry items like a 15-inch laptop, a jumper, lunch, drinks, and personal effects. It is also used for carrying ammunition, pistols, and ear muffs to a firing range.

The bag is generally sturdy and well-made, enduring heavy burdens over time. Many bags last for two years or more of daily use, aging beautifully. However, some bags have experienced issues with metal components breaking after light use. One bag had a sword hook that was not crimped, and a chronic issue with the strap coming off.

The bag is not fully waterproof, but it is water resistant. Water beads off the outside when it rains. Treating both the leather and the canvas with waterproofing is recommended before extensive use.

The bag can be safely hand washed. Use a desert spoonful of soft liquid soap suitable for cotton fabrics. Before immersing the bag in warm water, rub Gardener's Hand Cream into the soft leather and leave it for 24 hours. After washing and rinsing, leave the bag hanging at an angle to drain the inside.