SADF 32 Battalion Pattern 83 Prototype Rucksack w/ Frame

32 Battalion of the SADF was formed in 1975 with many members being former members of the Angolan armed forces or Rhodesian armed forces. It was an Elite light infantry unit that was created with the express purpose of being able to covertly execute operations both inside and outside the South African borders against communist forces. The unit was so feared from their reputation as fierce, aggressive and effective combatants that they were nicknamed “The Terrible Ones” by their foes. Despite the notarity, the Battalion always remained relitively small. They had a peak strength of about 700 members total among their several Companies. After they were disbanded in 1993, former members went on to form several private security firms that just as, if not more notorious in Africa such as Executive Outcomes and Sandline International. As time has gone on there seems to have been an effort to destroy much of the original equipment and clothing, so to find it has become increasingly rare over time, not that it wasn’t already rare with such a small size.

Note: Please order this separately from other items due to weight and dimensions.

Before Pattern 83 rucksacks were rolled out in force, 32 Battalion was given prototype sets with slight differences and in different colours to test in the field. This is one such backpack with slightly different attachment points for the lid closure. It is also in DPM like much of 32 Battalion’s webbing gear. It has also been blackened purposefully so as to be a more subdued colour by its former user. This was common practice for 32 Battalion. In terms of pockets and space, it is equivalent to a regular Pattern 83 Rucksack.

Includes a frame. Note that there is damage to the kidney belt and it is missing a chunk of it as well as one of the buckles.