Pattern 44 Webbing

[Flying10uk]

I have recently been purchasing a few bits of Pattern 44 webbing for my collection and it does seem less common on the surplus market than Pattern 37 even though Pattern 44 was in service over a relative large time frame. Apart from basic pouches, one item of Pattern 44 kit that I have recently purchased is the "small pack" (small rucksack). When it arrived I was amazed at just how small the Pattern 44 pack actually is. Seen below, it seems to bring a whole new meaning to the word "small"; my initial reaction was that it's "toy-town" in size. I realise that Pattern 44 webbing also had a larger pack available but I don't, currently, have an example in my collection.

Despite it's small size the Patt.44 small pack does have a "waterproof" lining attached to the inside and so I'm thinking that it's quite innovative in that respect.

I am assuming that the "small pack was only intended and used as a "day pack" for short patrols and the large pack for anything else? I have seen it stated that Pattern 44 webbing was a nice and good webbing system to use but I was wondering about the thoughts of people here who may have used Pattern 44 webbing, please?

When would Pattern 44 webbing finally have been retired from UK service, please; I'm guessing mid 1980's?

How much use did Canada, Australia, New Zealand and other Commonwealth countries make of Pattern 44 webbing, please?

Many thanks for any replies and input.

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