Vtg Rucksack Shoulder Strap Question

[JockBushveld]

I have a Swiss "salt & pepper" rucksack and a 50s (I think) Lafuma rucksack (very similar to the early Bergans), both of which have a strange shoulder strap configuration. Instead of the strap going unbroken from the shoulder to the frame at the hip, the left strap on both has a snap mid way down. The right strap has a ring connection but no snap. It's hard to describe, but for those of you that have one of these saks, you know what I'm talking about. I hate to sound like a simpleton, but could someone please explain to me what the snap is for? Thanks.

 

[Gijoe]

Unsnap the strap for more easy up-pack the full and heavy pack. That you can believe me, i was in the Army and carry the 70s 80s vinyl version of this pack many miles.

 

[JockBushveld]

Thanks, Gijoe. That makes perfect sense.

 

[Fitzcarraldo]

Try HERE: good pics.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7434591@N02/sets/72157623556138349/with/4458556368/