One Quart Plastic Military Canteen - M1961



One Quart Plastic Canteen M-1961

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Nomenclature


Canteen Water Plastic with Screw Cap



History


After considerable experimentation, a one-quart canteen made of olive drab polyethylene was designated the M-1961 Army standard in September of 1962.

With the endorsement of field troops, the plastic canteen rapidly replaced the aluminum and stainless steel canteens, although the metal canteens continued in use as secondary standard until the early 1970s. Aluminum and CRS canteens continued to be issued until about 1971/72 when orders required all units to turn in the remaining, well-used metal one-quart canteens

The plastic canteen consisted of the olive drab polyethylene plastic bottle with a matching plastic cap that was held to the canteen by a broad plastic strap, instead of a chain. The shape and size of the plastic canteen were nearly identical to the metal canteens it replaced. The nesting metal canteen cup was not changed, The canteen cover evolved from the insulated cotton design to the (Cover, Water Canteen (insulated nylon).

In 1966 the M-17A1 protective mask was introduced, which had an integral drinking tube. The cap of the M1961 canteen was changed to an NBC cap by the addition of a small connecting hole in the center of the cap with a cover that snapped into place. Replacement NBC caps, called the M1 cap, were issued for older canteens then in use, first in black then olive green.

A battlefield assessment report from Vietnam, issued 30 Aug 1965, had this to say about the plastic canteen: The plastic canteen presently in the supply system has proven decidedly superior to the metal canteen. Lighter in weight, it reduces the overall individual load and completely eliminates metallic noises incident to the handling of the current canteen. Expedite the issue of the plastic canteen to all units presently serving in combat areas.




Description


The plastic water canteen is intended primarily for use in temperate and tropical environments for carrying drinking water

Specification


MIL-C-43103
MIL-C-43103, Revision D, August 15, 1988
MIL-C-43103, Revision C, June 27, 1980
MIL-C-43103, Revision B, September 30, 1970




Nomenclature


Logistics




Production






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