True but on the other hand I doubt soldiers were expected to strip it to clean it, simply give it a wipe over as most of us do on our weapons today. Also worth remembering that a bakalite case would offer protection that a soft canvas carrier would not thus making it rather more appropriate for the 'rough and tumble' of an infanteers life rather than the more subtle life of a sniper. That said, I see your point and agree. Interesting piece of kit anyhow.

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There's no honorable way to kill, no gentle way to destroy. There is nothing good in war. Except its ending.