Canteens

[Christopher]

Good evening all,
I was wondering who is the best vendor for the federal (bullseye) canteen?

Thank you in advance for your answers.

Regards,
Chris P.

[AZReenactor]

Re: Canteens

A lot of folks seem partial to the the five ring Philadelphia Arsenal Canteen (Produced by R. H. Gantz?) Personally, I really like the thirteen ring corrugated canteen that may have been produced in Philadelphia by Paul Field or perhaps the 13 ring model with the tall pewter spout that might likely have been produced by a local tin-works in Chicago, but then that one was likely made especially for Wisconsin or Illinois Volunteers. Alas, here in the west I'm more likely to have a smooth side or possibly late war, one of the corrugated canteens that was distributed through St. Louis.

Now I know that probably isn't the answer you were looking for. You may well just want to know where to spend your money so that you can buy your self into the hardcore-authentic club but It doesn't work that way. A good impression requires real research, which starts with asking the right questions. I suggest searching this forum, reading some books (there are a number of good ones on canteens out there), and asking more targeted questions once you've done some of the initial research needed to be able to ask good questions. Being authentic isn't as simple as asking who makes the best generic item, you need to examine your impression, their sources of supply, the time frame being depicted, etc. etc. A quality impression results from quality research.

Oh, and you might also want to follow the forum rules requiring first and last name signature on all posts.