M1 liner 104th Cavalry Regiment

A pristine vintage US Army Special Forces Beret dated August 1973. Manufactured by the highly collectible "Fleur de Lis" (Dorothea Knitting Mills), known for producing the best-shaped berets of the Vietnam era. It features a vintage 3rd Special Forces Group flash with the desirable "Cut Edge" construction and a pinned DUI crest. Note: Size is 6 1/4(extra small), making this a perfect display piece rather than wearable items.

CIB colour patch used.

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

A fantastic collector's piece from the late Vietnam War era: US Navy Inflatable Life Preserver, specification MIL-L-21047 (SHIPS). The stencil clearly dates the manufacture to APRIL 1973. Unlike many surplus vests, this one is in very nice, lightly used condition with vibrant markings and supple fabric. Comes complete with 4 CO2 cylinders installed.

Genuine wooden forend for the M79 "Blooper". Original USGI surplus, packaged in January 1974. Still sealed in original bag. Mint NOS condition.

Decal for helmet/liner - Airborne arch. The product is from the 60's, can not guarantee the possibility of application on the helmet/liner.

Unused Body Armor, Ground Troops, Variable Type vest with plates. Size Medium Long. Contract DSA 100-69-C-0548. Perfect unused condition. There is a small tear in the cotton fabric on the inside back see photo.

The vest was tested by the 1st Cavalry Division in Vietnam from January to May 1967, and although it was too heavy for foot mobile operations, it was recommended for personnel involved in escorting convoys and motorized patrols.

Genuine 1970 Vietnam Era M-65 Jacket. So-Sew Styles contract. Aluminum zippers. Exterior is Mint/NOS condition. Interior liner has a storage stain. Size Medium-Regular.