Original WW2 US Army M1943 Combat Jacket - Size 36R

An original WW2 Period United States Army M43 combat jacket in a size 36R.

Officially designated 'Jacket, Field, Combat M-1943', this pattern of jacket was standardised in August 1943. It saw widespread issue with many units throughout the winter of 1944-45 and stayed in issue and production until it was succeeded by the M-1951 Combat Jacket.

The jacket is made from an olive drab coloured cotton sateen fabric which was chosen for its windproof and waterproof qualities. The interior is made from a tightly woven poplin cotton whilst the pockets are lined with a white cotton drill. A drawstring is fitted to the waist whilst the front fastens with buttons. The same style of buttons are used to fasten the cuff. The fly front is also lined with white cotton which is a telltale sign of US made jackets. 

Inside the lower right hand pocket the original label is still present. It is washed out, as they so often are. The measurements however correlate to a 36R and match jackets labelled as such.

The jacket is designed to fit a 36" chest but will fit up to a 40" well. When laid flat the jacket measures -

Chest - 22 1/2"
Inside arm - 22"
Outside arm - 24"
Shoulders - 19"
Length - 28"

The jacket is in reasonable condition with signs of wear and use. There is some staining and general signs of wear including field repairs and repairs to the cuffs which are illustrated in the pictures. The jacket is still wearable and has bags of character, but please take time to study the pictures as there are some flaws. 

A well used original WW2 period combat jacket which would suit a collector or re-enactor well!