Why Blanco Webbing?

**edelweiss123** · 06-09-2013, 08:38 PM

Hi everyone, I picked up a pair of 37 Pattern Gaiters today and a 37 Pattern Belt and they appear to have been Blancoed. Was there any official guidance for this or was it a personal preference? Or was it a post war adaption. Ive done some research and the suggestions vary from being a sign they were used by special forces and then on the next site it says they were used by cadets? Bit of a difference!

Any advice would be great

Thanks

**seandm** · 06-09-2013, 08:48 PM

Good question! I look forward to seeing what info comes up here! I have never really researched it but wondered about the ins and outs of blancoed equipment. I do not think it was post war adaptation although maybe continued post war practice. I am sure they blancoed equipment during WW1. Cheers! Sean.

**edelweiss123** · 06-09-2013, 08:51 PM

i found this website quite interesting but it didnt give me an answer

Sixth Army Group :: View topic - British " Blanco" and its use on webbing equipment

**seandm** · 06-09-2013, 08:58 PM

Hey just found this.. Blanco (compound) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

**Jerry B** · 06-09-2013, 09:10 PM

As mentioned originally for this type of leather gear, then later on for webbing to match the colours and make it look "smart".

**edelweiss123** · 06-09-2013, 09:11 PM

Interesting, and i can understand protecting and cleaning the webbing. But im more puzzled at why they would change the colour of it as the pieces i have are done with a black Blanco.

**seandm** · 06-09-2013, 09:15 PM

Hey edelweiss Wikipedia says "Other colours included black (used by Royal Armoured Corps and rifle regiments per regimental custom)" I am sure I have read that before as well that certain regiments would use other colors for dress ceremonial purposes. Cheers! Sean.