Artillery set

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

Genuine Vietnam War dated M-1950 Adjustable Jump Case. "Pack, Parachutists, Weapons and Individual Equipment". Dated March 1968. Maker: Kings Point Ind. Mint / Unissued condition.

Rare US Marine Corps reversible camouflage shelter half (Mitchell / Leaf & Cloud pattern). Dated March 1953. Made by Stein Bro. Mfg. Co. Excellent color retention, minor pinholes.

Genuine Vietnam War era Chinese Communist (Chicom) canteen used by the NVA and Vietcong. Metal body with bakelite cap and tan canvas strap harness. Rare "Near Mint" condition. Iconic enemy gear.

Authentic 1967 US pilot's survival life raft. Type LRU-3/P by Rubber Fabricators Inc. Holds air. Includes original Sea Anchor. Sold as a collector's display item only.

Genuine US Marine Corps "White Gear" set for Military Police. Vietnam War era. Includes cotton web belt with brass plate buckle, .45 mag pouch, and holster hanger. Used condition with authentic patina.

A prime example of the US Army "Rucksack, Tropical", the definitive pack of the Vietnam War. Dated 1968 (DSA 100-68-C-2782). Unlike the later ALICE pack, this features the distinctive spring-steel "X-Frame" to keep the load off the soldier's back in humid conditions. The nylon is in excellent condition with vibrant color. Includes two original utility lash straps. Note: One metal eyelet is missing from a side attachment tab.

Genuine US M7 Bayonet by Imperial. Rare chrome-plated finish for Honor Guard and ceremonial duties. Blade and handle hardware are chromed. Sold as bayonet only (no scabbard).

A "Holy Grail" item for Vietnam War and Special Operations collectors: The original "Preliminary Operator's and Organizational Maintenance Manual" for the STONER 63A (5.56mm Light Machinegun, Belt Fed). Published directly by the manufacturer, Cadillac Gage Company, this represents a rare piece of history associated almost exclusively with US Navy SEALs and elite units in Southeast Asia. The manual features intricate technical diagrams of the trigger group, receiver, and field stripping procedures.

Authentic vintage beret flash for the 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment. Features the desirable "Thin Border" (Cut Edge style) and "Snowy Back" construction typical of US manufacturing during the Vietnam War and 1970s. Excellent condition.

An incredibly scarce piece of Vietnam War history: An original ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam) field shirt. Unlike US gear, surviving ARVN uniforms are very hard to find. This item was sourced directly from Vietnam, adding to its provenance. It is in "Salty" / combat-worn condition, featuring holes near the collar and a missing pocket button. The sleeve shows a distinct "Ghost Patch" outline where insignia was removed. Fits like a US Small.

Used M1956 suspenders from 1973. Inner side is not cotton but nylon. Size Large.