French Army Daypack / Musette F1

 

Brelage F1 / FAMAS

Franch Army Daypack / Musette F1

1970 - 1990s




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This is a : Musette Militaire F1 Armee Francaise



Description

The F1 Backpack is actually available in two main versions: the small F1 Musette (around 20-30 liters) and the large F1 Pack (around 60-90 liters when expanded).



Physical Description

The F1 Musette (Small Model)

This is the compact model most often referred to as the "daypack" or "musette".

Volume: Approximately 20 to 30 liters.

Material: Thick, sturdy cotton canvas with a bottom and inner flap often rubberized/waterproofed.

Design: A main compartment with an internal divider, a back pocket, and a front pocket with a Velcro closure.

Carrying System: Slightly padded canvas shoulder straps, with additional straps at the bottom for securing a tarp or poncho

The side pockets have a capacity of approximately 2 liters each, the front pocket is about 5 liters, and the main compartment around 10 liters. This gives a total volume of 20 liters.






History note Category










Printed Label 





Object Details 



Category    
Backpack Small


Related period 
1970-1990s


Materials
Cotton Canvas / Polyamide waterprrofed with polyuretane


Dimensions 
Length: 40 cm
Width: 13 cm
Depth: 25 cm



Catalogue number 






Associated 

  • French Army
  • Brelage F1 / Famas
  • Brelage TAP

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 Back to Mike Webb Collection


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"Brelage" nylon modèle F1












Musette F1 verte de l'Armée Française imperméable, 2 poches latérales.































The F1 Backpack is actually available in two main versions: the small F1 Musette (around 20-30 liters) and the large F1 Pack (around 60-90 liters when expanded).

Here are details on both pieces of French military surplus equipment:






The F2 Combat Musette is the successor to the F1, serving as the standard French Army daypack throughout the 1990s and 2000s. While it looks very similar to the F1, it features a few key modernizations.

Key Features of the F2 Daypack


FeatureDetail
Capacity Approximately 20 to 30 liters.
Material Heavy-duty, vinyl-coated (PVC) canvas for superior waterproofing compared to the F1.
Main Upgrades Transitioned from metal buckles to plastic quick-release clips (fastex style) for easier access.
Compartments One main interior compartment, a large flat pocket on the back, and a front pocket under the main flap.
Carrying System Adjustable shoulder straps, often featuring a chest strap for better stability during movement.


Major Differences: F1 vs. F2

Fabric: The F1 is primarily heavy cotton canvas, while the F2 is almost entirely rubberized/plasticized, making it feel stiffer but much more weather-resistant.

Hardware: The F1 uses traditional metal friction buckles; the F2 uses plastic clips.
Color: The F2 is most commonly found in the classic French CE (Centre Europe) Camouflage pattern, whereas the F1 is usually solid Olive Drab.
This "Musette" remains a favorite for bushcraft, fishing, and as a rugged school bag because it is nearly indestructible and keeps gear dry even when set down on wet grass.
Are you looking to buy one for hiking or are you interested in its technical history within the French military?






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