MG34 u. MG42 barrel changing mitt marked gjs 43

Rare wartime barrel changing mitt for the MG34 and MG42. When firing the MG34 and MG42 continuously the German soldiers where presented with a harsh and difficult task: changing the barrel. The barrel changing mitt is marked gjs 43 indicating production by Hohendahl, H. Gummi u. Astbest gesellschaft m.b.H., Essen. The MG34 and MG42 where both made with a quick-change barrel and to help in the changing of the barrel these gloves where invented and issued. These gloves where issued with the accessories of the MG34 and MG42. It is simply used by placing the hand under the strap and using the pad to cover your hand when you grab the hot, sometimes even glowing barrel. The barrel is then placed in the Laufschützer to cool down and a cool new barrel is inserted. According to regulations, the barrel had to be changed after 150 rounds fired continuously. Hard to find a marked example in good condition!