Measures approx. 8.5" x 11". A well-made piece in light orange-brown leather. The interior is separated into two main compartments by an integral canvas divider. Unlike pre-war models, this case lacks the additional small insert for maps and the separate detachable compartment for pencils, compass etc. The nests for the pencil and tools are integral parts of the front compartment, accessible immediately under the flap.

Although less spacious than the pre-war model, the map case is expandable and can hold a good volume of maps, notebooks and manuals. Like earlier versions, it includes a front strap closure and leather belt loops on the back with carbine clip attachments for a shoulder sling. The fittings are in nickel-plated steel. The inside front flap has a manufacturer's stamp from the Leather Goods Factory #3 in Moscow, Narkomat (People's Commissariat) of Light Industry with a 1946 date of manufacture. There is also a quality control stamp.

In very good to excellent condition. The exterior shows only minimal scuffing at the edges but no significant wear of any kind. The leather remains very sound, not overly dry, and retains an attractive "healthy" gloss. There are some minor water stains, mostly on the back, which are not detracting. The interior is very clean. All the original metal hardware is present and almost completely free of oxidation.

This very interesting and well-preserved piece is, by definition, the earliest dated post-war issue one can find. From experience, such pieces are far scarcer than pre-war models because the size of the Soviet army and military production were severely curtailed at the end of WW2. A large portion of the post-war production of military gear such as maps shifted to the Soviet-occupied parts of Europe, particularly Germany. Therefore, it is far easier to find a German-made Soviet map case from the early post-war period than one made by a Moscow maker.