Trousers, Man's, Cotton WR Poplin OG 107 RIP STOP - M-R- 1967

Used US holster for Colt 1911 pistol.

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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 blouse COAT, MAN'S COMBAT, TROPICAL. Rip-Stop material. Size Medium Regular. Contract DSA 69-C-1161. See photo for condition.

Trousers in ERDL camouflage. Size Medium Regular. Contract DSA 100-70-C-0137. Perfect almost unused condition. Colours are rich and unwashed. This piece comes from the estate of a Special Forces member named Norton who served in the US. Army from Vietnam to the 1990s.

Used bag for M17A1 gas mask, size Large. Cotton straps. Good condition.

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.