Going Frameless

​I have had several inquiries about how to remove the frame from the M39. I myself sport a frameless M39 for a couple reasons. 1) it folds up nicely 2) I don’t have to worry about banging the frame on things as I walk through shops 3) it is more comfortable for leisurely strolling about.  I delayed performing the conversion due to my aversion of irreparably altering such a fine piece of equipment. Eventually I devised a way that I can reattach the frame at any time and completely reverse the conversion if I wish.
 
Tools you will need:
Drill
Small punch/or nail
1/4” Metal drill bit
Pliers
A flat head screwdriver
A wooden block or other sturdy working surface
Proper Protective Gear
Conversion Kit from SwedishRucksack.com
 
Time:
About 45 minutes
 
There are 8 screws that require drilling and they can be drilled in any order. 4 that attach the Lumbar support and lower buckles and 4 that attach the back straps.

     1. Use the punch or nail to dent the flat side of the middle rivet so that the drill bit won’t slide around           while being drilled
     2. Remember to use your hard surface to drill and be cognizant of finger placement and avoid injury
     3. Drill out the rivet using the metal 1/4” bit
     4. Once drilled thoroughly the flat part of the rivet should come apart from the rest of the rivet
     5. Use the pliers to remove the rivet and remember the rivet will likely be very hot so be careful
     6. Remove the rest of the required rivets in the same fashion
     7. Once the rivets are drilled and removed the frame should be free of any straps

With the frame removed it is now time to reassemble the frameless ruck.

1. Attach the upper support and the upper buckles as before

2. Attach the back strap and the buckle to the frame attachment strap using a rivet replacement

3. Repeat this process on the other side

4. Attach the lower shoulder straps to the buckle and upper shoulder straps

5. Enjoy your frameless rucksack

Remember that without your frame, your ruck cannot carry as much weight. Ensure you don’t overload your ruck and remember it’s a 70+ year old bag.

​Happy Rucking,
 
Jeff Reilly
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