Armor Body, Fragmentation Protective (For the Groin) (2)

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

Parka M51 (Field Jacket) in unused condition. Contract QM (CTM) 10442 - C - 61 from 1961. Size Small Short.

Unused Armor Body ballistic shorts, Fragmentation Protective (For the Groin). Size 38 /Army) 44 (Navy). Contract DSA-100-4677. Unused condition. for collector's purposes only.

A prime example of the US Army "Rucksack, Tropical", the definitive pack of the Vietnam War. Dated 1968 (DSA 100-68-C-2782). Unlike the later ALICE pack, this features the distinctive spring-steel "X-Frame" to keep the load off the soldier's back in humid conditions. The nylon is in excellent condition with vibrant color. Includes two original utility lash straps. Note: One metal eyelet is missing from a side attachment tab.

Genuine US Military Issue Safety Line / Extraction Rope, dating to the late Vietnam War era. Unlike bulk rope, this item features factory spliced/braided eyes at the ends, indicating it was issued as a specific assembly (e.g., for helicopter crew safety or STABO rigs). It comes with the original heavy-duty steel carabiner stamped "WYOTT 72". Condition: New Old Stock (NOS), excellent preservation.

Exceptional named grouping (Shirt, Trousers, Cap) with matching Laundry Mark B0200X. Features a rare unit combination: 101st Airborne and the US Army Security Agency (ASA). Includes "In-country" made name tapes. This represents a specialist attached to SIGINT/Radio Research operations.

Decal for helmet/liner - Airborne arch. The product is from the 60's, can not guarantee the possibility of application on the helmet/liner.

A highly desirable Vietnam Era "Private Purchase" Green Beret made by the famous Bancroft Military Capscompany. Distinguished by its yellow/gold lining, this was the preferred headgear for career Special Forces soldiers who wanted a sharper look than the standard issue. Named to "WILSON" on the sweatband. The beret is in very nice condition but features a distinct cigarette burn through the vinyl liner, adding undeniable character and history. Size approx 7 1/4.

REPRO beret in Tiger Stripe camouflage - size Medium 57/58.

A classic piece of Vietnam War personal gear: The ERDL Camouflage Bib Scarf. Officially tagged as "INSIGNIA, BOS, SCARF, BIB-TYPE". This accessory was widely popular among troops (especially Special Forces and USMC) to prevent heavy gear straps from chafing the neck and to absorb sweat in the jungle heat. Made by Hallmark (Code G-23). Features snap button closure.

The essential reference guide for collectors of Vietnam War memorabilia, focusing specifically on the opposing forces. "Weapons and Field Gear of the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong" by Edward J. Emering is a high-quality hardcover book published by Schiffer Military History. It provides an in-depth look at the uniforms, equipment, and weapons used by Communist forces, making it a vital tool for authentication.

Very nice liner for M-65 jacket from 1969 - contract DSA 100-69-C-2489.. Liner has double seams. Liner is in used but nice condition.