Whitened web equipment was the perogative of Provost, for increased visibility at night and when on traffic control duties. White web appears to have been originally adopted by Provost units in Canada around 1941, about the same time it was taken into wear by British MPs. By late 1942 white web was almost universally worn. The typical web set worn by Provost consisted of a waistbelt, brace, brace attachment, ammunition pouch and holster. Other equipment such as map cases and water bottles were worn slung over the shoulder.
White web equipment used by Provost was standard issue 1937 Pattern. This equipment was originally sand or khaki coloured and was made in Canada and England by a number of manufacturers. The largest Canadian manufacturer was Zephyr Loom & Textile of Toronto. Various methods of whitening the web were used, painting appears to be common although it was specifically prohibited by Routine Orders. Combinations of dyes, bleaches, web dressing and blanco or whiteballing were also employed.
 Large frame revolver holster |
 Royal Armoured Corps Pattern Holster |
The large frame revolver holster could accomodate most issue and second standard .38, .45 or .455 calibre revolvers. The Royal Armoured Corps pattern holster was a limited issue and was intended only for the Enfield No2 revolver. 6 spare rounds were carried in loops on the outside of the holster, as well as a cleaning rod.
 Small frame revolver or automatic |
 First Pattern Browning Hi Power holster |
The small frame holster was intended to carry a Colt 1911 automatic or a small frame revolver. The first pattern Hi Power holster was a limited issue to Canadians and was not very well liked. Soldiers had difficulty securing the pistol in the holster and even more difficulty extricating it.
 Second Pattern Browning Hi Power Holster |
 Revolver Ammunition Pouch |
The second pattern Hi Power holster was much more successful, this pattern was still in use in the 1970's. The design of this holster was copied for the black leather holster used by Canadian MPs until the mid 1980's. Below is a view of the holster open, showing the location of the pistol and cleaning rod. A spare magazine is carried in a metal lined pocket just below the trigger guard.
 Brace Attachments |
 Method of Attaching the Brace |
Two patterns of brace attachments were issued, to support the weight of the revolver. The cross strap brace was attached to the brace attachment at one end, and attached to the left rear buckle at the other end.
The water bottle issued with 1937 pattern web was made of enameled steel and was virtually identical to the waterbottle issued in the First World War. It held slightly less than 2 pints of whatever refreshing liquid the soldier chose. The bottle was covered in felt and was carried in a web carrier attached to the brace ends, or slung over the shoulder. Two patterns of waterbottle carrier were issued, the "skeleton carrier" and the "sleeve carrier".