Yet again Andrew thankyou for that advice. The nearest I have been able to get to the original is a linen thread which I purchased on the assumption it was near enough correct.
I had assumed the Coastal Command Irvin was a rare beast but have seen quite a few for sale recently. Like for like...
Thankyou Andrew, I haven't yet tried to load photos but I will try. May I also ask has anyone ever identified what kind of paint it was on the yellow hood. I see that leather paints as opposed to dyes are available and I wouldn't want to overpaint the whole thing but am tempted to do a little...
Does the contract stores number on an Irvin Label give any clue to the manufacturer. Mine is 1943 with a contract number 4314/C.37.B. Would appreciate any help in identifying the maker. Thanks
Andrews comments about smaller size rings true. Mine is a 38 although the sizing is quite generous. On a couple of photos showing WW2 pilots wearing them the sleeves look short and this is the case with mine. It occured to me that this might be a design characteristic for some reason [ or is it...
I also read somewhere that these jackets were used by the US Navy and interestingly on the buckles of the side belts there is embossed a tiny anchor. You really have to look for it to find it.
Yes Andrew, it is definately a splice and not a repair. I didn't realise this was done but it's understandable, after all they weren't produced as fashion items. Would it be correct to say that from a collectability standpoint the AN-J4 isn't that popular.
Which WW2 USAAF sheepskin flying jacket is the rarest ? I would have guessed the AN-J4 because of its late introduction and limited production run. Am I correct ?
I have an AN-J4 made by Poughkeepsie and I am struck by its strength and quality but one of the two rear panels is in two pieces...
Don't bother bringing it down to Cornwall in the winter. I wore my Eastman for only the second time this winter and only because it finally stopped raining for a day accompanied by a rare cold snap. Took the old MG out and it was the perfect jacket for that but the three mile dog walk that...
Thanks robrinray. I know the old Galibier boots you mention I have a pair of classic 70s high mountain doubles with the inner boot fleece lined. Never been in a position to use them . Lived for some years in the Lake district which I pine for daily. Be up there in a couple of months.
My Flying...
Correction to the above. Aero contacted me today [ 8th Jan ] and informed me they could make a hood. Thanks to Andrew I no longer need one but perhaps someone else out there might and Aero seem to be the company to contact
As anyone had any experience of refurbishing a pair of RAF 1941 Flying Boots. Particular problem of course is the perished rubber rand. Be grateful for any advice. I like to do my own restoration, keeps me busy now I'm retired.
Although with Internet buying one can get ones hands on just about anything I haven't seen Pecards Antique leather dressing available. Obviously it is as many people on this forum mention its use. Currently I am using Mars Leather conditioner, is there any real advantage in Pecards over this...
Nice jacket Dr H. Why I thought shrinkage might be an issue is that the top of the sleeve, at the shoulder seam, instead of it being a continuous curve it pulls in slightly.. A photograph would help explain I know but as a new boy I cant yet post them.
I only have Eastman repros to compare...
Thanks to Andrew I have now been able to reinstall a genuine hood on my Coastal Command Irvin. This has involved careful stitching utilising the original stitch holes.
Andrew also identified the jacket as most likely manufactured by Links. I know my jacket is a size 6 and with a 44" chest...
Andrew has sold me a genuine replacement hood so I'm in cloud cuckoo land.The offer of a pattern is still very much appreciated and with your permission and if its still available I will share it with others who are interested. Thankyou again to everyone who has been so helpful.
Actually Andrew I replied to your email immediately but I have just realised that reply is probably in your message box on this site. Sorry I am truly a "new boy".
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