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The M39 Tornister, was part of a major update to the soldiers equipment, and was implemented in 1939. The new system was a more versatile equipment type, wich could be used in different variations, and would allow the transport of more equipment in the Tornister. The main difference was the introduction of the Y-straps and the A-frame (Sturmgepäck) The Y-straps was to be worn on the field uniforms at all times, and was used as extra relieve for carrying the weight of the standard equipment on the combat uniform. (Taking the strain of the internal carrying straps and the belt hooks on the combat tunics) The introduction of the Y-straps ment that there was no more use of the integrated carryingstraps on the Tornister. Instead the Tornister was issued with (adjusteable) leather flaps with hooks, to hook them onto the D-rings on the Y-straps. Here is a very nice, 1940 dated M39 Tornister. The first thing you notice, when telling the difference on a M39 versus M34, is that the M39 has a leather strap with stud-button mounted on the lower parts of the outside lid of the Tornister. This leather strap is there to secure the A-frame to the Tornister. And of corse, the lack of carrying straps, replaced with hooks for attaching to the Y-straps instead. The M39 Tornister, also has D-rings attached to the top of the Tornister. These are for hanging the hooks of the A-frame. The M39 Tornister also have the loops for the button-on Mantelriemen - equipment straps. It does MOSTLY look like the M34 Tornister on the inside, but it does no longer have the integrated pocket for the messtin inside, The messtin was now to be worn outside of the backpack, mounted on the A-frame. This Tornister is in more or less un-used condition, and I do have a matching 1940 dated Y-strap from the very same factory for it: ..And with the A-frame with pouch and messtin, Wehrmacht blanket and a tentsheet mounted on the outside: