Extremely Rare “No.1 Special” Military-Issue Woods Canoe Bag – Broad Arrow Marked, Circa WWII

This is an extremely rare classic olive-drab military rucksack, stamped “No.1 SPECIAL” beneath a British broad arrow mark, likely issued for special-purpose units during WWII.

Constructed in the style of the Woods Canada canoe bags, this piece features:

• A full flap closure with rugged leather straps and metal buckles

• Heavy-duty canvas construction, field-worn with original patina

• Faint name marking: “PYLE”, possibly the original owner

• Approximate size: 18” x 25”, offering ample storage capacity

While bearing the hallmarks of classic British military kit, the unique “No.1 SPECIAL” stencil suggests it may have been issued for specialized or limited roles, such as SOE, SAS, or commando use—distinct from standard-issue infantry packs.