Coat, Man's, Nylon, Rubber Coated, Green M-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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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.

A "Holy Grail" item for Vietnam War and Special Operations collectors: The original "Preliminary Operator's and Organizational Maintenance Manual" for the STONER 63A (5.56mm Light Machinegun, Belt Fed). Published directly by the manufacturer, Cadillac Gage Company, this represents a rare piece of history associated almost exclusively with US Navy SEALs and elite units in Southeast Asia. The manual features intricate technical diagrams of the trigger group, receiver, and field stripping procedures.

Unused US Army can opener P51.

The mark of the elite! Up for sale is a genuine full-color RANGER tab from the 1960s. Earning this coveted tab means surviving one of the US Army's most grueling training courses. This piece features classic pre/early Vietnam War era construction with a flat "Cut Edge" and the highly sought-after white bobbin "snowy back." Lightly used with an honest vintage patina from actual uniform wear. A perfect, authentic addition for any Vietnam-era uniform display or patch collection!

Genuine vintage Parachute Rigger qualification patch. "Old School" construction featuring embroidery on a black wool felt base. Distinctive red "RIGGER" text. Reverse side features period-correct "cheesecloth" gauze backing. Mint condition..

An essential tactical guide for Vietnam War historians and reenactors. This 2012 reprint by Special Operations Press provides an exact copy of the historic 1970 "RECONDO Recon Team Manual". These tactics were taught at the legendary MACV Recondo School in Nha Trang, which trained LRRPs (Long Range Reconnaissance Patrols), Rangers, and Special Forces in deep jungle operations. Paperback, English language.

Original 1969 issue of the General Ammunition technical manual. Essential guide for ammo identification, color codes, and handling. Vietnam War era reference.

An authentic woven parachutist insignia (jump wings) of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) Airborne Division from the Vietnam War era. Features a fine woven design backed and reinforced with heavy cotton duck canvas for field durability. Genuine combat-worn, uniform-removed condition.

Cover for 2qt water bag Canteen Collapsible 2 Quart Capacity. FSN 8465-J22-0002. Manufactured by Latex Corp. Contract No. DA 19-129-QM-2044. The bag has rust stains on it but is otherwise undamaged.

Veteran patch 1 Bn. 52 Inf. Recon Platoon

Genuine 1969 Vietnam era M65 jacket. Features the rare "Sportmaster Inc." label misprint. Aluminum zippers. Heavy authentic patina and wear. Size Small-Long.

Genuine 1967 US Army double-breasted raincoat. "Quarpel" treated Cotton/Nylon blend. Army Green 274. Complete with belt. Size 42 Regular. Named to soldier.