Body Armor, Ground Troops, Variable Type - Medium Long

Rare original propaganda booklet from the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam). Titled "U.S. Planes Downed Over North Vietnam". Contains stamps depicting anti-aircraft victories. Iconic POW cover image.

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

Rare "Theater Made" US Jump Wings. Hand-embroidered silver bullion on black felt. Manufactured in Okinawa, Japan during the Vietnam War era. Features distinctive paper backing with clutch posts. Excellent condition.

Rare "Sage Green" Cotton Sateen field shirt. Contracted by Marine Corps Supply Activity but features "ghost marks" of removed USAF rank insignia. Size 15/33. Unique cross-branch item.

Genuine US Marine Corps Pattern 1956 Utility Trousers. OG-107 Cotton Sateen fabric. Distinctive round rear pockets. Waist 80 cm (approx. 31.5"). Used condition, one broken button.

Rare early buttstock for M16/XM16E1 rifles (Vietnam War era). "Type D" model with a solid rubber buttpad and no cleaning kit compartment. Good used condition, no cracks..

Genuine USGI triangular handguards for the M16A1 rifle. Complete set (Left & Right halves) with integrated aluminum heat shields. Unissued NOS condition. Perfect for retro builds.

Authentic 1967 US pilot's survival life raft. Type LRU-3/P by Rubber Fabricators Inc. Holds air. Includes original Sea Anchor. Sold as a collector's display item only.

The original multi-purpose net. The multi-purpose net is made of olive green nylon, weighs 1 pound and measures approximately 5 feet by 9 feet (60 by 108 inches). Two 14-foot cords were attached to each net to serve as suspension ropes when the net was used as a hammock.

FSN 8465-889-3771 Specification MIL-N-43181

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

Rare 1st Pattern OG-107 Sateen Shirt (Type I). Rectangular pocket flaps. Dated 1962. Full color Sergeant First Class insignia. Size Medium (Chest 37-41"). Authentic vintage condition..

M9A1 gas mask in an original unopened can.