M16 Colt XM3 Bipod

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

M7 bayonet from Imperial. Metal parts are chrome-plated. Bayonet only, without scabbard.

M9A1 gas mask in an original unopened can.

Original BUAER (Bureau of Aeronautics) protective set made of ballistic nylon and used by US Navy and USMC helicopter crews at the beginning of the Vietnam War. Includes:

BUAER Flak Vest: protected the upper torso from low-velocity shrapnel. Zipper closure with snap cover, durable and authentic period construction.

BUAER Flak Shorts (groin protector): protected the lower abdomen and groin area. Front zipper closure with cover, adjustable crotch strap.

Details:

Size of both pieces: 40

Condition: lightly used, no damage, zippers and fasteners functional

Unused flight suit in ERDL Brown Dominant camouflage. Size for approx. 180-185cm. Missing manufacturer's label.

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.

Unused M6 bayonet from Milpar. Condition see photo.

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

Blouse in ERDL camouflage. Colour is between Brown and Green dominant. Size S-R. One pocket has a USN marking on the other one with the name sprayed on. Very nice condition.

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

Very nice beret with flash 3rd Special Forces Group and badge. Flash has a thin edge. The beret is size 6 1/4. Production 1973.

Used OG 107 (Utility Shirt) with 82nd Airborne Division lieutenant patches. Above the 82nd Airborne patch is a Ranger arch. Shirt is used but in nice condition. Personal number stamps are visible on the inside. The name tag is blackened in marker. The shirt is starched and ironed. Chest circumference 102cm. Sleeve length from shoulder is 60,5cm. Sleeve length from underarm is 50cm.