1908 pattern webbing

It proved unsuitable for holding modern ammunition, which was carried in stripper clips instead of as individual rounds, and its buffalo-hide leather tended to deteriorate during long periods in the field.

The new Mills-Burrowes equipment, initially known as "the Aldershot design", was presented to a committee chaired by the Surgeon-General, which in turn recommended trials at home and abroad.

The holdall would have carried a spoon, knife, fork, button stick, shaving brush, hair comb, toothbrush, razor, a bar of soap, and spare boot laces.

In "Battle Order" which was intended to be worn in combat, the valise was detached and the haversack was attached to the back in its place, connected to the ammunition pouches by separate straps.

However, the massive expansion of the British and Commonwealth armed forces immediately before and after the outbreak of World War II meant that the 1908 webbing continued in front line use for some time.

A British soldier in France during the Battle of the Somme , 1916. Visible parts of his 1908 webbing in Battle Order are the haversack, which is being worn on the back in place of the valise, the entrenching tool carrier, the water bottle, and the ammunition pouches towards the front of his waist.
Soldiers of the Leicestershire Regiment in France in 1915, in Full Marching Order. The ammunition pouches can be clearly seen.
Soldiers from the Leicestershire Regiment in Full Marching Order. The valise or large pack is being worn and the haversack can be seen on the left side. The entrenching tool helve and bayonet scabbard can also be seen.
Bermuda Militia Infantry soldiers cleaning 1908 pattern equipment during the Second World War