Original British Army 1960 Pattern Combat Smock - Size 3

An original 1960 pattern combat smock in good condition, dating from the late 1960s.

This pattern of smock was introduced in the early 1960s and replaced the earlier Sateen combat smock. It is the for-runner to the ubiquitous 1968 pattern combat smock issued throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Notable features of this earlier smock is the flat green colour and the stitched collar.

The smock is made from a dark olive green coloured cotton sateen and features patch pockets to the chest and lower pockets which have an inverted pleat to allow them to expand. Long sleeves end in a buttoning barrel cuff whilst the elbow features a double layer reinforcement. The left breast pocket features a stitched section to allow a pen to be held. Both the central and the bottom drawstring are still present.

The front of the jacket fastens with an 'NZ' branded zipper, as are commonly found on combat jackets made during this period. There is evidence to the sleeve where sergeants stripes were previously fitted as shown in picture 8. 

Inside the jacket the features a poachers pocket which fastens with a single green coloured plastic button. Two original labels are present including the manufacturer's label which bears the title 'Smock Combat 1960 Pattern' and the size of 3. The A/78 contract number is also present and dates the jacket to the late 1960s. The maker's name of 'James Smith & Co. (Derby) Ltd' is also present. 

The jacket will suit around a 38" chest well and when laid flat measures - 

Chest - 23 1/2"
Inside arm - 18"
Outside arm - 24"
Shoulders - 19"
Length - 29"

The smock is in worn condition with plenty of signs of wear and use but is still very wearable. There are some period repairs and some limited staining etc which are to be expected from a vintage combat jacket which has been issued. Please study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-worn jacket. 

A nice original 1960 pattern combat jacket!