Mess Tin

Messtin

The 'D' shaped infantry messtin had been in use since the last half of the 19th Century. Originally it was in three pieces, but the central tray had been rejected by 1914. Thus the messtin now consisted of two halves. The upper one contained a fold out handle (or 'bail') which allowed it to be held over a heat source (for boiling water etc.). The lower half had a greater capactity and was intended to hold the main part of the soldier's rations. To this half was attached a carrying handle. The photo below is of an original. However these are getting scarce now, but sources for good quality reproductions have recently opened up.