Red Army Trench Periscope as used by forward observers and sniper teams to enable them to see without being seen.

Excellent working condition with military-applied coat of olive green paint. The factory or arsenal identification markings are "whited-in" and the 1944 year stamp is present and is clearly visible. Still has clear functioning 4x optics with scale grid. The carrying case is a later model in unreinforced canvas with heavy canvas shoulder shoulder strap and buttoned flap at the top. The case was originally dark green with a serial or accountability number stenciled or rubber stamped on it.

Scope is in excellent condition, complete with an unused cleaning cloth rolled up and stuffed into one end. The canvas case is in very good condition. It is sun faded and shows wear. One outer area of threading has come loose but the next line of stitching is still holding. Tiny puncture on the imitation leather tip. Steel button has rusted but still functions properly.

Periscope's sturdy steel construction meant that, in a pinch, a Red Army Man could have used it in combat like a nightstick - although bashing a fascist soldier in the head with it probably would not have done the optics any good.

Stamped as it is with a 1944 date, one can reflect that there were probably very few places in Eastern Europe where it might not have been put to use by Soviet soldiers - particularly snipers in urban situations like Berlin, Vienna, or Prague.

Outstanding piece of WW II Red Army field equipment.


$325.00