Dealer Information Dealer: Blighty Militaria Location: London, United Kingdom Tel: 07729 917 773 Email: blightymilitaria@gmail.com

Original Early 1950s British Army Denison Parachutists Smock - Size 6

Code: 54329

Website: https://www.militariazone.com/jumpers-smocks-and-tops/original-early-1950s-british-army-denison-parachutists-smock---size-6/itm41689

An original British Airborne Denison Smock by 'George Davis' in the early 1950s. 

This pattern of smock was introduced in the immediate post-war years and is sometimes referred to as the 'third pattern' or the '1946 pattern' by collectors today. It is very similar in many ways to the wartime produced second pattern smocks as it features a 15" long half zip and similar colours. The main details which denote this as being a post-war smock are the knitted cuffs and the nickle plated 'Newey' branded press studs. 

The smock features a screen printed camouflage pattern with a sand coloured background and reddish-brown and green brushstroke pattern. The collar is lined with a khaki green coloured wool shirting material and epaulettes are located to each shoulder. The fishtail has been removed as was common practice at the time and the front zip is a 'brass 'Flash' branded example which is typical of these early 1950s smocks. There are also two small tabs to each side which fasten with press studs and six more press studs to the front which the fishtail can be attached to. 

There is clear evidence to the upper portion of the right sleeve where parachute qualification wings and a DZ flash were originally fitted but have since been removed. 

Inside the smock the original label is still present and bears the title of 'Smocks Denison Airborne Troops' below which is the size of 6. The maker's name of 'George Davis & Co' is present below which is the date which is no longer legible. The maker's name was shortened to 'Geo. Davis' by 1956 which means this smock dates from before that time, probably around 1954. 

The smock is a large size which is designed to fit up to a 42" chest and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 29"
Inside arm - 22"
Outside arm - 24"
Shoulders - 22 1/2"
Length - 34"

The smock is in heavily worn condition and clearly saw plenty of use! It has various repairs, some of which have been done using a matching camouflage material whilst two others to the bottom rear hem have been done with British windproof camouflage. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a well worn vintage item with some flaws etc. 

A fantastic looking post-war smock with some amazing period repairs!