I recently purchased a 1945 half ton, which has the original air cleaner. I've read the debate about which is best, and have decided to buy a modern element air filter housing for daily driving, and would prefer a K&N filter element. There was a "period correct" hot rod filter for $149 that looked good quality so I bought it--and promptly returned it as it was shockingly VERY poor quality and would allow unfiltered air to seep in, and the top didn't fit. I swear it was made in a blacksmith shop. What options are there that filter well, fit perfectly, breathe adequately? Period correct would be a bonus. Our roads here a crappy, and sometimes there's a lot of dust. Thanks in advance.

 

If you are running the stock engine and carburetor use the stock oil bath filter. It filters well and is the most affordable air filter change you will ever have.

 

Thanks, that's what's on it but still hoping to gather advice on some other options.

 

38 coupe has it right, the factory air cleaner is near perfect. Other than not looking like a hot rod air cleaner, they work very well.
If you are going to change it out for something else, I suggest staying away from most of the smallish aftermarket styles and go with something as large as practical.
Good luck!