As a long-term collector of genuine World War 2 militaria...particularly  U.S. Army Issue for over 45 years, I am not surprised to see that finally some company in China and other countries (mainly Taiwan and others) are producing counterfeit reproductions of the more hard to find versions of original U.S. military issue items of World War Two, such as M1 Rifle and M1 Carbine magazine pouches, Cartridge belts, Helmets and much, much more.

Primarily, I think the Reenactor movement has been the driving force in the new reproduction militaria market that has become so prevalent.

That's all well and good for those who do not want to use an original cartridge belt...collector grade and valuable...during a reenactment weekend, slogging through  mud, rocks and rough terrain. And understandable.

The unfortunate part of the reproduction web gear.... and other items being offered....is that they are being advertised AND SOLD by some unscrupulous sellers....as  "Vintage ~ New"  "Original WW2!"  "Found In Old Footlocker!" "Guaranteed As Original Issue". Even well-rated and trusted Sellers...at least some...are offering reproductions  represented as originals by them; being bold enough to even use Stock photos from the Websites that sell the reproduction items.

Some people have no reluctance about misinforming potential bidders regarding the authenticity of an item being listed by them; as long as they profit from having done so.... by your buying it!

  Recently I received an E-mail reply from an ebay seller who listed an obvious reproduction with the photo from the Site he (probably) had bought the fake item from; after I had questioned his "M1 Carbine Magazine Pouch, dated 1943" under the category of Original Period WW2 U.S. Field Gear.

  This fine and honorable fellow decided to answer me with this reply:

I recommend checking out the numerous Vendors of the WW2 military reproductions that are listed on various web sites to find out how to authenticate an item being offered for sale anywhere. Learn what to look for in a reproduced piece of militaria. In most cases you can tell by the picture, but it takes some knowledge about the real item and its' look, texture and the manufacturer's stamp especially before you can be absolutely sure. It takes knowledge AND a practiced eye. Make your bid wisely, and know beforehand what you need to look out for in order to avoid disappointment later.

Good luck and enjoy your collecting!