M16A1 Buttstock 1st type

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

Used trousers (Trousers, Man's, Cotton WR Poplin OG 107 RIP STOP ). Size Medium Regular. Year of manufacture 1967. Trousers have a few stains but are undamaged. There is still a laundry tag on the hem.

Used ERDL Coat, Man's, Tropical. On the shoulder is a patch 2nd B, 75th Infantry Ranger/Airborne. Above the pocket is a Basic parachutist badge. Size Medium Regular. Year of manufacture 1968.

Unused Blouse Coat, Man's, Cotton W/R Rip-stop Poplin, OG 107. Size XL Regular. Year of manufacture 1968 - 1969.

Used US pan/mesh. Year of manufacture 1967.

Pack of disposable earplugs. Production 1962. For collecting purposes - functionality is not guaranteed.

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

Used jacket (Coat, Man's, Camouflage Cotton, Wind Resistant Poplin, Class 2) in ERDL Brown Dominant camouflage. Size Medium Regular. Label with year of manufacture and production missing.