SOLD OUT Until 2024

First quality Zeltbahn. These are NOT seconds- they have the all of their buttonholes and their buttons are in the correct position.

These are the best of all the Splinter Zeltbahns we have. However, they may have: small mis-prints in the camo print, chalk marks (from assembly), a few errant stitch holes, a random smudge, or some other very minor issue. All of these are on par with originals and do not amount to "defects".

Reproduction of the shelter quarter that was standard issue to all German troops of the Heer (Army), Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine. (WS troops also used them occasionally.) The Zeltbahn could be worn as a poncho, used individually as a ground sheet to make a lean-to, or, most often, four were buttoned together to make a pyramid tent. However, they were made in a such a way that literally any number could be combined to make larger and larger tents. Both sides were printed in the same "Splinter" pattern camouflage, with one side being notably darker than the other to fit varying light conditions in the environment the troops were operating in.

Each soldier was issued one Zeltbahn, but it's not difficult to find period photos where it'd obvious that the troops often "acquired" one or two extra.

ATF Zelts: These are NOT available from any other vendor! Our new Splinter Zeltbahns are exclusive to ATF. This run took three years to create. First, we had the fine yarn, 100% cotton poplin cloth specially woven to match the WWII fabric. Other reproductions use whatever poplin is available- which is why they absorb water so nicely- normal cloth isn't water repellent. Then we found a printer that could print camouflage in the same repeat sizes as were used in 1940's Germany, so our splinter did not need to be altered to fit existing rollers. Naturally we had the colors matched to authentic samples. Finally, the cloth was treated with Teflon- the best water repellent available for cotton.

For the pattern of the Zeltbahn itself, we used the original schematic from 1936. These will button together with originals as well as one another. As to this that or the other brand of reproduction- we have no clue.

Buttons: In WWII, the Germans used both cast aluminum and stamped steel buttons. We reproduced the cast type as they do not rust and the edges are not as thin and sharp. (This type was used throughout the entire War- they are not exclusively "early".)

Grommets: Original Zeltbahns were made with aluminum or zinc grommets. We actually have both- so our Zeltbahns will be one or the other.

Number of grommets: We chose to make these with the mid-War grommet layout as we were running out of the 8mm type at the time we were finishing them. Thus, they have 3 large grommets and 3 small ones. (As opposed to early production that used 3 and 6). All have been installed so we cannot add any.

Imported

	Larger tent...8 zelts	Multiple uses from the Infantry manual	How to mount on the Tornister Pack