ČSLA Para Bag
Paratrooper Bag vz.61
ČSLA paratrooper bag model 61 – two variants, cylindrical side pockets, suspended under parachute.
The paratrooper bag model 61 was standard equipment for ČSLA airborne units. It was produced in two variants differing only in minor constructional details. During the 1980s it began to be replaced by the newer vz.85 bag (Šimík), although some units continued using model 61 until the early 1990s.
Material
Made from durable olive-coloured cotton canvas.
Interior arrangement
The main compartment includes laces threaded through metal eyelets at the bottom, used to attach the anti-chemical suit (PCHOJ).
Side pockets
Characteristic cylindrical pockets on both sides of the bag, commonly used to carry tins or other equipment.
First variant
The first model was fitted with a magazine pouch for the Sa vz.58 submachine gun and a thin pocket on the right shoulder strap.
Second variant
The second model differed only in lacking the magazine pouch for the Sa vz.58 and the thin pocket on the right shoulder strap. All other features remained identical.
Suspension under parachute
The bag could be suspended under the parachute at the back (known as 'na prdel' – on the backside), so it would not obstruct movement or reduce safety during the jump and landing.
Historical context
During the 1980s the vz.61 bag began to be replaced by the synthetic vz.85 (Šimík). Nevertheless, some units continued using it until the early 1990s.
