WW2 Original U.S. Army TL-122-B Bakelite Flashlight Manufactured by GITS(Original)
SKU: U.S. ARMY TL-122-B BAKELITE FLASHLIGHT MANUFACTURED BY GITS
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-Stock
Manufacturer: GITS-General Instrument and Tool Supply Company
Date Manufactured: 1940's
Model: TL-122-B
Size / Dimensions:
Weight:
Materials / Construction: Bakelite, glass, metal
Condition: 97/Near Mint
Price: $100.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: DG-50
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an authentic World War II-era U.S. Army TL-122-B combat flashlight, manufactured by GITS (General Instrument and Tool Supply Company) in the United States. The TL-122 series was standard issue for American forces during the war, and the “B” model represents the second major version, introduced in the early 1940s.
This flashlight was constructed from durable brown Bakelite, the TL-122-B was designed to be both rugged and reliable in combat conditions. It features a right-angle head with a built-in lens guard and a side-mounted switch for easy operation while wearing gloves or operating in low-light conditions. This model includes a screw-off tail cap for battery access and a metal clip for secure attachment to a soldier’s uniform, belt, or web gear.
This particular example is clearly marked “TL-122-B” on the body and bears the distinctive GITS manufacturer’s stamp, identifying it as a genuine wartime production piece. The lens remains intact, and the body shows typical wear consistent with age and field use, adding to its authenticity and historical value.
History
The TL-122-B flashlight served as an essential field equipment for American military personnel during World War II. The GITS company produced this particular model from brown Bakelite material because metal was scarce during wartime while the military needed lightweight equipment. The TL-122-B flashlight model entered production in 1938 as part of the angle-head flashlight series before the "B" variant became available in 1943. The flashlight features a right-angle design with a fixed clear lens and an integrated belt clip on the reverse which enables users to attach it to web gear belts or suspenders. The TL-122-B flashlight represented an advancement over its predecessor "A" model because it provided better durability and weather resistance. The Bakelite body of the flashlight displays distinctive GITS manufacturer markings which are usually found on the rear battery cover or near the lens housing. The flashlight operates on two D-cell batteries and includes a switch lever to control the light as well as a screw cap for bulb access. The flashlights served as essential equipment for infantry units as well as engineers and medics and vehicle crews. The flashlights received colored lens filters (red, blue, green) for performing night operations and map reading tasks. The TL-122-B flashlight stands as a popular collectible for WWII militaria enthusiasts who seek good condition pieces with their original markings and components. The GITS-made version represents the standard lighting equipment which U.S. troops used throughout all Second World War theaters.
