East German Leather Greatcoat Strap

NVA Greatcoat Strap

This black leather strap was issued to the East German Army to secure a rolled greatcoat, keeping the heavy wool coat compact and tied down when it was not being worn. It works just as well today for strapping a bedroll, blanket or tarp to a pack or frame. Collectors and reenactors building an accurate NVA kit will want it for the same reason: it is the original issue item.

Features

• Black Leather Construction — The strap is cut from leather with a black finished face and a natural tan flesh side underneath.
• Metal Buckle — A squared metal buckle at one end takes the free end of the strap and locks it at the length you need.
• Punched Adjustment Holes — A row of holes along the strap lets you cinch it tight around a thick rolled coat or a slimmer bundle.
• Riveted Leather Keeper — A second leather layer secured with a metal stud holds the loose tail flat so it does not flap or snag.
• Stitched Reinforcement — Visible stitching where the layers join adds strength at the point that takes the most strain.
• Inked Interior Markings — Stamped markings on the inside face are typical of East German issue equipment and of interest to collectors.
• Versatile Field Use — Beyond greatcoats, the strap secures sleeping bags, blankets, ponchos or bundled gear to a pack.

Issued By The NVA

The Nationale Volksarmee, or NVA, was East Germany's army during the Cold War, and its field kit leaned on simple, durable leather and metal fittings like the ones on this strap. Because it is original government issue rather than a modern copy, it suits a period-correct impression or a Cold War collection. The plain buckle-and-hole design also makes it a practical, no-fuss strap for everyday hauling.