Original WW2 US Navy M-421A Flying Jacket by 'Drybak' - Size 42

An original United States Navy M-421A summer flying jacket made by 'Drybak' during the Second World War.

This contract was produced between March 1942 and June 1944 and is therefore a guaranteed wartime example. It is made from a khaki tan coloured cotton and is fitted with an M42 chrome plated Talon zipper to the front which still retains most of its original leather puller. Two flapped pockets are located to the lower portion of the jacket which fasten with buttons. The left hand pocket has a small stitched hole underneath the flap which is designed to hold a pen. The rear of the jacket features an action back and half belt, typical of American military jackets from this period. The sleeves also feature a diamond shaped reinforcement patch which is a great design detail.

Inside the jacket there is a single interior pocket which fastens with a press stud and bears the USN marking. The original labels are also present below the hanging loop. The main label features yellow writing on a black field and bears the title 'Jackets, Flying, Summer, BU. Aero - U.S. Navy Specification M-421A' along with the maker's name of 'Drybak' and the contract number of 1404A. Below this is a smaller white tag which states the size of the jacket as 42.

The jacket is intended to fit a 42" chest and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 23"
Inside arm - 19 3/4"
Outside arm - 23"
Shoulders - 19"
Length - 25 1/2"

The jacket is in very good condition as can be seen in the pictures. There are only limited signs of wear and use and overall it displays very well. There are some small marks etc as well as two very small holes which are detailed in the pictures. Please study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a pre-worn, vintage item which may have other small flaws commensurate with age. 

A very good example of this rare pattern of WW2 flying jacket!