As part of the '72 Pattern Trials web set, there was a smaller rucksack. The Trials rucksack was modified and then issued as the "GS Rucksack". (NSN 8465-99-132-2813) Note that the "GS" stands for "General Service", ie: standard issue. These are frequently being offered on eBay as SAS or PARA and/or as SAS and PARA "Patrol Bergens": these claims are completely false and they're an attempt to sell an inexpensive, standard issue item as elite fighting forces kit. The GS rucksack was far too small for Airborne Forces use and were banned for use in Airborne units, not that the ban had to be enforced: no self-respecting Para would want to be seen dead with this rucksack! Only trainees on an All Arms Para Selection Induction might be permitted to use these whilst they were a undergoing Selection at Depot PARA, Aldershot. Once qualified and in an Airborne unit, they'd have to carry full scales of equipment like everyone else in the unit.
The main tips to recognising a genuine SAS/PARA "Bergen" from a GS rucksack are easy. The GS is far smaller, has no zipped compartment in the lid, no zip on the outer central pouch and the lid closure straps are buckle adjusted instead of tied. There is no provision for sliding a shovel or skis behind the side pouches. There are no snapper studs on the side pouches (for folding and securing them flat), no accessory loops on the body front and lid and there are two visible 1" straps on the lid, leading to the D Rings for the shoulder straps. Do not be fooled if a rucksack is photographed on the same frame - the GS is designed to be used with the same frame and shoulder straps. With the frame fitted, very little equipment can be carried in the main body - certainly not enough to make fitting the frame worthwhile!
One final point: Originally, all '72 Pattern rucksacks had manufacturer details ink stamped onto the inside lids. On earlier rucks, these were very neat and they numbered several lines. After a time, the "SAS" was omitted from the line "Rucksack, SAS". On some production batches, there is extremely little in the way of markings - and some are "sterile", ie: with no markings at all. Later rucks have markings that appear to have been hand rubber stamped on. The markings, or lack of them, do not necessarily indicate an imitation.
The author has lost count that he's seen bogusly listed GS rucksacks sold as SAS/PARA. Bidders spending £30+ for a £10 rucksack. Ask the seller questions andresearch what you're bidding on. Study photographs of qualified SAS and Paras (circa Falklands War - loads of pics!). A seller of a genuine Airborne rucksack will try to use the most clear photographs in their listings to avoid any doubts that a bidder might have.
The main tips to recognising a genuine SAS/PARA "Bergen" from a GS rucksack are easy. The GS is far smaller, has no zipped compartment in the lid, no zip on the outer central pouch and the lid closure straps are buckle adjusted instead of tied. There is no provision for sliding a shovel or skis behind the side pouches. There are no snapper studs on the side pouches (for folding and securing them flat), no accessory loops on the body front and lid and there are two visible 1" straps on the lid, leading to the D Rings for the shoulder straps. Do not be fooled if a rucksack is photographed on the same frame - the GS is designed to be used with the same frame and shoulder straps. With the frame fitted, very little equipment can be carried in the main body - certainly not enough to make fitting the frame worthwhile!
One final point: Originally, all '72 Pattern rucksacks had manufacturer details ink stamped onto the inside lids. On earlier rucks, these were very neat and they numbered several lines. After a time, the "SAS" was omitted from the line "Rucksack, SAS". On some production batches, there is extremely little in the way of markings - and some are "sterile", ie: with no markings at all. Later rucks have markings that appear to have been hand rubber stamped on. The markings, or lack of them, do not necessarily indicate an imitation.
The author has lost count that he's seen bogusly listed GS rucksacks sold as SAS/PARA. Bidders spending £30+ for a £10 rucksack. Ask the seller questions andresearch what you're bidding on. Study photographs of qualified SAS and Paras (circa Falklands War - loads of pics!). A seller of a genuine Airborne rucksack will try to use the most clear photographs in their listings to avoid any doubts that a bidder might have.
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