BACKGROUND: Map/dispatch cases were issued on a limited basis to specifically designated personnel such as unit commanders, messengers, and observers. The M35 map/dispatch case was based on the Weimar era, Reichsheer pattern map/dispatch case with minor variations. The M35 map/dispatch case underwent a front closure modification in mid-1936, and an additional small front pocket was added in 1938, although the early pattern cases continued to be manufactured through-out the war. When issued the map/dispatch cases came complete with an assortment of map reading and plotting tools and instruments including a map distance measuring meter. The distance meters came in a wide variety of different models but they were all quite similar in design.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Tooled alloy construction dual sided map distance measuring meter with nickel/silver plated fittings and two glass face covers. The bottom end of the meter has an extended arm with an inset small wheel which is attached to internal cog wheels which are in turn connected to the internal movable hands. The operator would roll the small wheel along the surface of a map and the movable hands would coordinate the mileage, (kilometers), dependant on the map scale used. Included is two piece card board constructed carton with tissue paper.