Schrade Walden H-15 Knife – Vietnam Era Private Purchase – Original Sheath

Genuine Vietnam War 5-Quart Collapsible Canteen. Dated 1968 (Cover and Bladder match). Made by Trenton Textile. Lightly used, excellent vintage condition.

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

Genuine 1964 dated OG-107 Cotton Sateen shirt. Type III (pointed pockets). Features stenciled name "E.E. Akers". Note: One broken button. Size fits like Small.

A highly desirable Technical Manual (TM 9-1005-249-14) dated August 1966. This manual is a treasure trove for early Vietnam War collectors. It covers the maintenance and repair of the M16 and XM16E1 rifles, but its primary value lies in the inclusion of the XM148 40mm Grenade Launcher. The XM148 was an experimental, failure-prone predecessor to the M203, used briefly by US Special Forces. Original documentation for the XM148 is extremely scarce.

A true collector's piece: Original 1st Pattern Jungle Fatigue Trousers featuring the iconic exposed buttons. Dated 1964. Made from Non-Ripstop Cotton Poplin. Size Small Long. The rarest version of the Vietnam War tropical uniform.

M1 helmet cover in Tigerstripe camouflage.

A highly desirable Vietnam Era "Private Purchase" Green Beret made by the famous Bancroft Military Capscompany. Distinguished by its yellow/gold lining, this was the preferred headgear for career Special Forces soldiers who wanted a sharper look than the standard issue. Named to "WILSON" on the sweatband. The beret is in very nice condition but features a distinct cigarette burn through the vinyl liner, adding undeniable character and history. Size approx 7 1/4.

Rare early Vietnam War "Lightweight Rucksack" (P64). Dated 1964. Fully complete with welded frame, cargo shelf, waist belt, and instruction sheet. Very good condition with one small 1cm tear on a pocket.

The essential reference guide for collectors of Vietnam War memorabilia, focusing specifically on the opposing forces. "Weapons and Field Gear of the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong" by Edward J. Emering is a high-quality hardcover book published by Schiffer Military History. It provides an in-depth look at the uniforms, equipment, and weapons used by Communist forces, making it a vital tool for authentication.

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.

Museum-quality 1969 M-65 Field Jacket. Owned by USAF Brigadier General Kelly. Features Command Pilot wings and USAFE patch. Aluminum zippers. Unissued/Mint condition. Rare size Large-Long.