Coat, Man's, Field Olive Green, 107, M-1951 - Small Short - NOS

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

Unused M7 Conetta bayonet with used M8A1 scabbard from manufacturer PWH.

Two pieces of M1956 Universal Small Arms Ammunition Pouch 2nd Pattern. Used condition - some metal parts are covered with oxidation, which can be cleaned. The pouches have nice colors and visible stamps.

Original BUAER (Bureau of Aeronautics) protective set made of ballistic nylon and used by US Navy and USMC helicopter crews at the beginning of the Vietnam War. Includes:

BUAER Flak Vest: protected the upper torso from low-velocity shrapnel. Zipper closure with snap cover, durable and authentic period construction.

BUAER Flak Shorts (groin protector): protected the lower abdomen and groin area. Front zipper closure with cover, adjustable crotch strap.

Details:

Size of both pieces: 40

Condition: lightly used, no damage, zippers and fasteners functional

Used trousers (Trousers, Twill, Khaki With Hip Pockets). Size 28x33. Waist 68 cm, leg length from waist 104 cm. Year of manufacture 1957.

Used COAT MAN'S CAMOUFLAGE, POPLIN, WIND RESISTANT, RIP-STOP jacket. Size Medium Regular. ERDL Brown Dominant camouflage. USMC marking on the pocket. The jacket is used and has several small holes and a repaired collar.