The raft was thus rigid, and could remain buoyant, floating equally well with either side uppermost, even if the waterproof outer was punctured.

The floor of the raft was made from wood slats or a webbing grid. Boxes containing paddles, water, rations and survival equipment were lashed to the floor grid. Men could either sit around the rim of the raft, or, if in the water, cling to rope loops strung around its edge. The largest model could accommodate up to fifty men,