Picked up this kleinkaliber "cnx" RG34 recently. I have several, but was looking for a military issue example. The majority of those I have encountered typically are in "G. APPEL" marked tins, with components either marked the same or unattributed. This makes sense as large numbers were supplied to paramilitary organizations like the Hitler Jungend, training schools, etc. where use of small caliber arms was widespread. This kit looks like it was sitting on a shelf in someone's garage or shed for many years.
The tin is marked "cnx" with a E/WaA20 acceptance. The swivel link on the chain bears a partial "cnx" on one side & "E/WaA20" on the other. I noticed the dark phenolic oiler has a rubberized seal between the tube & cap. This is normally leather and don't think I have seen this seal before. It appears to have been there since manufacture. Lastly, though the kleinkaliber brushes were absent, I was somewhat surprised to find one modified, 8mm kit chamber brush instead. The brush has had a threaded base affixed to the lower wire stem, allowing it to screw onto a cleaning rod.
I initially thought it might fit a Kar98k cleaning rod, but it is too large. However, it threads perfectly onto the jag end rod of any USGI .30 caliber rifle cleaning kit. The threaded bases are permanently attached to the brushes by press crimping, so are not removable. The base used on the German brush appears to have been new when attached, so makes me wonder where someone would get such a replacement piece, unless available thru ordnance supply. Since many G.I.s liked to carry captured RG34s for their own rifle maintenance, often they are found with a number of issue components added, like a grease pot, patches, and small camel-hair cleaning brush. This appears to be another "make do" modification as well.
The tin is marked "cnx" with a E/WaA20 acceptance. The swivel link on the chain bears a partial "cnx" on one side & "E/WaA20" on the other. I noticed the dark phenolic oiler has a rubberized seal between the tube & cap. This is normally leather and don't think I have seen this seal before. It appears to have been there since manufacture. Lastly, though the kleinkaliber brushes were absent, I was somewhat surprised to find one modified, 8mm kit chamber brush instead. The brush has had a threaded base affixed to the lower wire stem, allowing it to screw onto a cleaning rod.
I initially thought it might fit a Kar98k cleaning rod, but it is too large. However, it threads perfectly onto the jag end rod of any USGI .30 caliber rifle cleaning kit. The threaded bases are permanently attached to the brushes by press crimping, so are not removable. The base used on the German brush appears to have been new when attached, so makes me wonder where someone would get such a replacement piece, unless available thru ordnance supply. Since many G.I.s liked to carry captured RG34s for their own rifle maintenance, often they are found with a number of issue components added, like a grease pot, patches, and small camel-hair cleaning brush. This appears to be another "make do" modification as well.
Attachments
Last edited: