Original 1953 Dated British 1950 Pattern Khaki Drill Shorts

An original pair of British Military 1950 Pattern Khaki Drill shorts dating from 1953.

This pattern of shorts came into issue with British forces at the end of the Second World War but the official pattern came into issue a couple of years later. They saw service for a number of years with the British Army and RAF. This style with the cross belt fastening is now often referred to as 'Gurkha Shorts'.

The shorts are made from the standard khaki tan coloured cotton drill and feature slash pockets to each hip and twin rear pockets. As well as this they have a twin pleated front. The shorts feature the cross belt closure and come complete with non standard chrome plate buckles. These are removable for washing purposes.

The original label is no longer present but there is a War Department inspection stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'L' which denotes 1953 as the year of issue. 

Due to the style of the waistband the shorts are slightly adjustable. They will suit around a 30" waist depending on desired fit and when fastened they measure -

Waist - 15"
Rise - 14"
Rear rise - 15 1/2"
Inside leg - 7 1/2"
Outside leg - 19 1/2"
Cuff - 12 1/2"

The shorts are in good condition as can be seen in the pictures. They have signs of wear and use and there is wear to the end of each belt which is illustrated in picture 4 although the shorts are still serviceable. Overall the shorts are very wearable but please study the pictures and bear in mind that these are pre-owned vintage shorts which may have small issues commensurate with age. 

All in all a nice pair of original 1950 pattern shorts which would make a great addition to any collection or summer wardrobe.