M1956 Universal Small Arms Ammunition Pouch 1st Pattern - Set

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

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

Unused M7 bayonet from Imperial. Used M8A1 scabbard from TWB.

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

Unused USMC Field Pack, Canvas Combat. There are small spots on the back, see photo.

Unused Tropical Combat Uniform (Coat, Man's, Cotton W/R RIP-STP POPLIN OG 107). Size Large Regular. Unused condition. Contract DSA 100-69-C-1362.

Used Vietnam USMC White Pistol Belt Set. The set includes a belt, a magazine pouch for Colt 1911 pistols, and a holster attachment.

Original unused blanket US. Army from the Vietnam War. Blankets are from 1968 and 1970 crates. FSN: 7210-282-7950.

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

Used blouse (Coat, Man's, Cotton, Wind Resistant Rip-Stop Poplin). Size Medium Long. Contract DSA 100-68-C-2821. Army and name patch are "in country made". The Special Forces shoulder patch is a regular Army issue. Blouse has several repairs see photo.

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

US field bottle, 1 quart, from 1966. Cover with cotton trim and drinking cup.