What are my chances of finding an unmolested M-1943 field jacket?

Question

What I mean is, the genuine article but without any badges sewn on. I am after a plain M-1943, but obviously I expect it to be a little worn!

What are my chances of finding one (in the UK would be good, but I could always ship it from abroad), and were they ever avaliable in a desert/beige colour or only olive drab?

Thanks!

Answer 1

Well it depends if you want one from 1943 or one that was made now. If you want one from 1943 i would try ebay or somewhere similar to that. If you want one made in the preasant try these websites http://www.atthefront.com/us_uni_M43Fiel...

or here http://www.google.com/products?sourceid=...

Answer 2

Try eBay or Silvermans surplus (via web site)

Answer 3

The genuine thing WITHOUT badges. You've got your work cut out.

Do you want it for re-enactment reasons, or as a fashion item?

Just can't think where you'd find a genuine one in reasonable condition. There are some very good copies, and you can get those in loads of places.

Tell you where you may want to try - Skirmish Magazine. You can get it in WH Smith. Or you can look on their website: http://www.skirmishmagazine.com/

They may have adverts in there or if you contact the editorial office they may be able to suggest somewhere.

Those M43 jackets were good jackets. I have a modern copy and I wear it all the time (well, come autumn and winter).