REPRO - Tiger Stripe Hat - Medium

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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 ARVN backpack. The backpack is without side straps. Unused condition - stored for a long time.

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

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

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

Inflatable lifeboat for one person, type LRU-3/P, USAF MIL-L-8664B(WP). Manufactured by Rubber Fabricators Inc. (contract DAAK01-67-C-916. Date of manufacture: 1967. Size is approximately 1.6 x 0.9 x 0.3 m max. (inflated, but with covers and bottom chambers folded down). Black and orange rubber construction with one inflatable chamber and additional stabilizing chambers underneath and nylon covers. The boat comes with the original sea anchor/brake (specification no. MIL-A-3339A). The boat is in decent condition, holds air, but is intended for collector's purposes only and is not recommended for regular use on water. The boat can be inflated using a car pump.

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

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

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