US patch. ARMY black and yellow woven

Two pieces of M1956 Universal Small Arms Ammunition Pouch 1st Pattern. Used condition without damage.

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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 M1967 mag pouches for 20rnd magazines for M-16. Mag pouches are in used condition but complete with straps and a working undamaged plastic clasp.

Medium Short, late Vietnam or early 70's dress, 101st ABN with hemmed edge, name tag and "army" silk.

Special Forces shoulder patch (without arc) from the Vietnam War. Variant with a hemmed edge.

Used blouse COAT, MAN'S COMBAT, TROPICAL. Rip-Stop material. Size Medium Regular. Contract DSA 69-C-1161. See photo for condition.

Used US pan/mesh. Year of manufacture 1967.

Unused folding shovel manufactured by AMES. Year of manufacture: 1969. Packaging year of manufacture: 1970.

Blouse ERDL Green dominant, sizing. M-S. USMC markings on pocket and USMC rank insignia on collars.

Used buttstock for M16A1 rifle. First model without cleaning shaft - only with rubber boot. Used condition with no cracks or damage.

Unused Body Armor, Ground Troops, Variable Type vest with plates. Size Medium Long. Contract DSA 100-69-C-0548. Perfect unused condition. There is a small tear in the cotton fabric on the inside back see photo.

The vest was tested by the 1st Cavalry Division in Vietnam from January to May 1967, and although it was too heavy for foot mobile operations, it was recommended for personnel involved in escorting convoys and motorized patrols.