Authentic US Army Pup Tent Reproduction
Our US Army WW1 and pre-WW1 pup tents are a lightweight, two-man shelter that revolutionized US Army field living conditions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Carried as two shelter halves, each soldier carried one half of the tent along with half of the poles and pegs. When joined, the two halves formed a small A-frame tent, quickly erected and just large enough to accommodate two soldiers and their gear.
The tents are made from cotton duck canvas (fabric specifications given below), the pup tent is durable and weather-resistant when treated with linseed oil or wax. We can waterproof it for you if you like. Its compact size made it easy to transport in a soldier’s field pack.
The accompanying ground sheet, is also made of canvas rubberized fabric, and provides a layer of protection against moisture and cold from the ground. This combination gave enlisted men a degree of comfort and shelter while remaining lightweight and portable for campaign life.
Technical Specifications – US Military Pup Tent
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Type: Two-man A-frame “pup tent”
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Dimensions (erected): approx. 7 ft (length) × 5 ft (width) × 4.5 ft (height)
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Capacity: 2 soldiers with basic gear
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Fabric: Heavy cotton duck canvas (10–12 oz per square yard)
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Color: Olive drab (for WW1) and khaki (pre world war 1)
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Poles: 2 sectional wooden poles, approx. 4.5 ft each
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Pegs: 10 hardwood stakes
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Guy Ropes: Cotton cordage
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Transport: Issued in halves (each soldier carried one half, with buttons or ties for joining)
Technical Specifications – Ground Sheet
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Type: Rectangular ground cloth
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Dimensions: approx. 7 ft × 5 ft (to match tent footprint)
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Fabric: Cotton rubberized
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Color: Olive drab or natural canvas
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Features: Grommets or buttonholes for pegging down or joining with other sheets
FAQ’s
What is a pup tent?
A pup tent is a small military tent that was originally used by soldiers as a temporary shelter during field operations. It is very lightweight and can be carried anywhere with ease.
Our WW1 US Army Pup Tent is the exact reproduction of the original tent used by American soldiers during World War I.
These tents are a great choice for military reenactments, museums, collectors, film productions, and anyone looking for an authentic WW1 military shelter.
How many people fit inside?
Our Army Pup Tent has enough space for two adults to rest with their basic personal belongings. During World War I, each soldier carried one half of the tent along with part of the poles (the wooden ones that hold the tent upright) and pegs (driven into the ground to keep the tent stable).
When the two shelter halves were joined together they form a compact A-frame tent that has enough space for 2 soldiers and their gear.
Is it waterproof?
Yes, if you choose the waterproofing option while placing your order. We offer waterproofing at no extra cost. Our Military Pup Tent is available in Olive Drab and Khaki canvas, and both can be waterproofed by us.
If you plan to use the tent for outdoor reenactments or living history events, we recommend selecting this option for better protection in wet weather.
