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Well I’m not a lost cowboy. I’m a found cowboy. I graduated from heritage, sick fades and the same 5 jackets years ago… now my purpose to infect this forum, like a virus, into the true golden age. The 1970’s.
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Master Supply Co
- Thread starter BigWasabi
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So just to be clear—this distinction is based entirely on how the jackets ‘appear’ to you? One brand ‘looks more refined,’ while the other ‘looks like’ a budget-tier jacket? That’s the depth of analysis we’re working with?
You’re not pointing to leather grades, stitching comparisons, pattern accuracy, or anything tangible—just a vague aesthetic judgment that happens to align with the prevailing group opinion here.
If there’s an actual side-by-side comparison of construction, materials, and durability, I’d love to see it. But until then, this reads like another case of reinforcing perception rather than engaging with reality.
AbbaDatDeHat
I'll Lock Up
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- 8,918
^^^…vocabulistics….priceless!!
And perfect.
B
And perfect.
B
Ahh... the golden age... You ever hear of Ultrasuede partner? A true revolution. Practical, stylish, and ready for the disco or the desert.
And hey, I appreciate a good virus—the kind that shakes things up, forces evolution. Keeps things interesting.
Ah, yes—when in doubt, make fun of the words instead of engaging with the argument. A classic move. But hey, if vocabulary is the real issue here, I can always dial it down. Wouldn't want to overwhelm the sewing circle.
You guys are the bullies here. I came in for a real discussion, and all I get is a chorus of sneering dismissals and inside jokes. If the real issue is that you just don’t like what I have to say, that’s fine—just say that. But let’s not pretend this is some noble defense of the craft.
AbbaDatDeHat
I'll Lock Up
- Messages
- 8,918
“And hey, I appreciate a good virus—the kind that shakes things up, forces evolution. Keeps things interesting”.
So you like a good virus…we have one here. It comes around fairly often. It doesn’t last long and the contagion flames out spectacularly within about 90 days.
It’s when the new guy raises his hand in response to the unasked question “who’s the smartest guy in the room”?
All the while the smartest guy in the room just waits for the new guy to shut TF up.
He doesn’t need to even speak, he knows well that the virus will run it’s coarse.
You’ve raised your hand over and over.
Congratulations. It too shall pass.
B
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Indeed it is….because all of the things you mention are laid bare in photos! Leather quality, patterns, stitch quality. It’s all there. Blind Freddy could see it. You can’t? Really? Is this your first leather jacket? That’s fine if it is but my God man. I don’t know how to make you see what’s plainly obvious. You’ll find out on your own. Hopefully you’re happy with it. It seemingly took a lot for you to get there! I’m certainly not mad at you at all. I do get strong shill vibes from your posts.
When you receive the jacket please do take quality photos and post them.
I can assure the responses will be honest, regardless of how they make anyone feel. It just as a small example, let’s look at something very simple.
Look at this construction: from MSC, sloppy stitching, puckered panels and absolutely massive needle holes:
Flat, unfolded seam, massive needle
Vs comparably priced also Pakistani manufactured RW:
Certainly more refined stitch work, welted seams and across the board, much more appealing leather.
Ok yeah now the difference seems obvious
It’s incredible—almost funny—how perfectly this reply proves the very point I keep raising—yet again! It’s like some of you just can’t help yourselves. You keep doing the exact thing at the heart of my concern with this thread.
This was never about who’s the “smartest person in the room.” It’s about how this group operates—marking distinctions between insiders and outsiders, new and old, as a way to protect its own authority rather than engage in any meaningful discussion. And here it is again: not a counterpoint, not an argument—just another attempt to enforce hierarchy and shut down conversation. The lack of awareness is truly something to behold.
What? You think this is about posturing expertise in leather jackets? I’ve said from the beginning that I don’t have any! That was NEVER the issue. In fact, my lack of expertise is why I initially came to this site!
The issue I discovered in this thread is exactly what you’re doing right now—how this group prioritizes insularity over discussion, how it polices legitimacy by marking insiders and outsiders, and how it shuts down challenges rather than engaging with them.
And somehow, instead of addressing that, you’re proving my point again. It’s almost impressive.
You’re trying to do the same thing to me that was done to Master Supply—shut out something by retreating into a gaggle of ninnies talking a bunch of shit. It’s desperate. It’s transparent. And it’s exactly why this discussion lost credibility.
Is this high school? If you actually have a problem with Master Supply Co., why don’t you reach out to them directly? I don’t care if you do or not, but the logic of knee-jerk exclusion is the issue. How many times do I need to say this?
As for the “smart people” in this thread—they’re the ones who have just asked for more information. If you have a substantive critique of Master Supply—that would be great! That’s what I came here for! I would welcome that because it would help me learn something about these jackets—but honestly and in good faith.
Meanwhile, the dominant voices here are all stuck in this weird, self-congratulatory exercise in shutting down what is perceived as dissent.
And yeah, I know people are going to read this as promotional, but at this point? The more you keep pushing the insider/outsider shit, the better I feel about buying that jacket. I mean this whole thread has turned that jacket into a big “**** you” to posing and pretension.
The Lost Cowboy
One Too Many
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- 1,848
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- Southeast Asia
Wow, I read three paragraphs of that and all it proved to me is how absolutely broken our tertiary education system is. You have absolutely no clue how much you don't know. All you seem to be capable of is argumentation and self-righteousness. Typical college bullshit these days.
I have zero time for that in my life anymore.
Not all leather jackets are of equal value or quality. You don't know the difference. But many here do. That makes them more valuable to this communcity than you are.
I hope one day you will understand that.
Welcome to my ignore list.
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Don’t do it! You’ll miss the reverse auction in the classifieds down to a fitting $125 shipped!
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- South of Nashville
I have unlocked this thread.
Get back on track and enough with the bickering.
Get back on track and enough with the bickering.
Squirrel_hero
Familiar Face
- Messages
- 92
TLDR anyways
In the interest of answering the admirable request to end the bickering, I am re-posting a revised version of my response to the photographs comparing the Master Supply Co Field Jacket and the jacket from Rugged West. When I receive the jacket, I will post again--or perhaps wait a couple weeks for some initial wear.
I appreciate you taking the time to point out these details. I had similar questions about stitching when I first looked into the jacket. Given the length of my reply (which I understand has been a concern), I've included subheadings to make it easier to skip to each issue.
Different Leather Aesthetics
Starting with the comparative suppleness of the leather, I’d say that’s definitely a matter of style preference. The Master Supply Co. jacket has a whole different aesthetic—it’s utilitarian, almost like a leather version of my old Rogue Territory waxed canvas supply jacket. I’ve always thought it would be cool to have that style in leather, and the natural veg tan was perfect for that.
Also, veg-tanned leather is a thick, 1.5mm full-grain material. Any natural waviness or texture is just a characteristic of a less processed, more organic hide. So while I get the appeal of softer, more supple leather, I think the rugged texture of this field coat is kind of the point. I also prefer how veg-tanned leather patinates over time, breaking in like a well-used pair of work boots. There's just nothing about the RW jacket that has that appeal for me. But again, while these are stylistic preferences on my part, my main concern was to make sure these details did not indicate any problems with construction. Of course, wearing the jacket will be the real test. But all the reviews on the durability of Master Supply Co jackets have been overwhelmingly positive. I don't have any reason to think this jacket--which is apparently a newer design--would be different. Again, I saw no red flags that would stop me from purchasing.
The Zigzag Stitching: Aesthetic vs Structural
The zigzag stitching, which has come up in this thread, is another issues I looked into. As I understand it, it's often used decoratively or as reinforcement in non-load-bearing areas. Its presence alone doesn’t indicate anything definitive about durability or long-term performance. In this case, given its location, it definitely appears to be more of an aesthetic choice than a structural element. And again, stylistically, this worked for me and didn’t raise any objective concerns about quality.
French Seams vs. Welted Seams
The jacket also features French seams in key structural areas. While welted seams are more visible and sometimes assumed to be superior, French seams enclose raw edges within the fabric, creating a cleaner, more durable finish. They require precision and additional effort in construction, even though they may not stand out as prominently in photographs. It’s a bit like how stitch-down construction in boots gets less attention than Goodyear welting, even though both are time-tested methods with different strengths.
Stitching & Construction Quality
Other details, like the inner placket and buttonhole, show tight, even stitching, while the shoulder seams maintain a consistent stitch length. And, again, the leather has a rugged texture, which might look irregular but is really just a feature of the material. It’s similar to how full-grain, waxed, or roughout leather on work boots will have more variation than a corrected leather that’s been smoothed out.
The "Massive Needle" and Flat Seams
As for the “massive needle and flat seams”—that’s an interesting observation. It didn’t really strike me as a problem because it reminded me of how some work boots use visibly large stitch holes and heavy thread, not because of any flaw, but because the material itself requires it. Leather that’s thick and full-grain doesn’t take small, delicate stitches the way a thinner, corrected leather might.
I assume the same goes for the seam—flat, open seams are common in workwear because they keep bulk down and allow for better flexibility. It’s a different design approach, but not necessarily a sign of poor construction. Again, everything I like about this coat goes back to its utilitarian design—it’s meant to be worn, broken in, and take on character over time, much like a solid pair of boots.
Comparing to the Rugged West Jacket
Comparing it to the Rugged West (RW) jacket highlights different design choices. The RW jacket appears to use thinner or more pliable leather, which allows for more uniform stitching. The assumption that welted seams are inherently superior doesn’t fully account for the different functions and aesthetics of various construction methods. Flat-felled and French seams are widely used in high-end leather jackets and serve a different purpose.
Design Intent vs. Objective Quality
Similarly, the leather’s finish reflects design intent rather than a strict measure of quality. The RW jacket has a more polished, uniform surface, while Master Supply Co.’s roughout and vegetable-tanned options are designed to evolve with wear. In the end, these differences seem more about aesthetic preference than objective quality concerns.
As an analogy, for me, comparing the jackets in these photos is like comparing a pair of Red Wing Iron Rangers in rough-out leather to Red Wing Beckman's in smooth leather. I don't mean to suggest the comparison is not useful or valid., only that the comparison clarified for me the stylistic details I appreciate about the MSC jacket.
I'm not trying to defend the jacket or even my choice to purchase. I'm just sharing my rationale and my understanding of these details. If I do have problems with the construction in any way, I will make sure to post here and share the issue as well as any corresponding quality-of-service details.
I appreciate you taking the time to point out these details. I had similar questions about stitching when I first looked into the jacket. Given the length of my reply (which I understand has been a concern), I've included subheadings to make it easier to skip to each issue.
Different Leather Aesthetics
Starting with the comparative suppleness of the leather, I’d say that’s definitely a matter of style preference. The Master Supply Co. jacket has a whole different aesthetic—it’s utilitarian, almost like a leather version of my old Rogue Territory waxed canvas supply jacket. I’ve always thought it would be cool to have that style in leather, and the natural veg tan was perfect for that.
Also, veg-tanned leather is a thick, 1.5mm full-grain material. Any natural waviness or texture is just a characteristic of a less processed, more organic hide. So while I get the appeal of softer, more supple leather, I think the rugged texture of this field coat is kind of the point. I also prefer how veg-tanned leather patinates over time, breaking in like a well-used pair of work boots. There's just nothing about the RW jacket that has that appeal for me. But again, while these are stylistic preferences on my part, my main concern was to make sure these details did not indicate any problems with construction. Of course, wearing the jacket will be the real test. But all the reviews on the durability of Master Supply Co jackets have been overwhelmingly positive. I don't have any reason to think this jacket--which is apparently a newer design--would be different. Again, I saw no red flags that would stop me from purchasing.
The Zigzag Stitching: Aesthetic vs Structural
The zigzag stitching, which has come up in this thread, is another issues I looked into. As I understand it, it's often used decoratively or as reinforcement in non-load-bearing areas. Its presence alone doesn’t indicate anything definitive about durability or long-term performance. In this case, given its location, it definitely appears to be more of an aesthetic choice than a structural element. And again, stylistically, this worked for me and didn’t raise any objective concerns about quality.
French Seams vs. Welted Seams
The jacket also features French seams in key structural areas. While welted seams are more visible and sometimes assumed to be superior, French seams enclose raw edges within the fabric, creating a cleaner, more durable finish. They require precision and additional effort in construction, even though they may not stand out as prominently in photographs. It’s a bit like how stitch-down construction in boots gets less attention than Goodyear welting, even though both are time-tested methods with different strengths.
Stitching & Construction Quality
Other details, like the inner placket and buttonhole, show tight, even stitching, while the shoulder seams maintain a consistent stitch length. And, again, the leather has a rugged texture, which might look irregular but is really just a feature of the material. It’s similar to how full-grain, waxed, or roughout leather on work boots will have more variation than a corrected leather that’s been smoothed out.
The "Massive Needle" and Flat Seams
As for the “massive needle and flat seams”—that’s an interesting observation. It didn’t really strike me as a problem because it reminded me of how some work boots use visibly large stitch holes and heavy thread, not because of any flaw, but because the material itself requires it. Leather that’s thick and full-grain doesn’t take small, delicate stitches the way a thinner, corrected leather might.
I assume the same goes for the seam—flat, open seams are common in workwear because they keep bulk down and allow for better flexibility. It’s a different design approach, but not necessarily a sign of poor construction. Again, everything I like about this coat goes back to its utilitarian design—it’s meant to be worn, broken in, and take on character over time, much like a solid pair of boots.
Comparing to the Rugged West Jacket
Comparing it to the Rugged West (RW) jacket highlights different design choices. The RW jacket appears to use thinner or more pliable leather, which allows for more uniform stitching. The assumption that welted seams are inherently superior doesn’t fully account for the different functions and aesthetics of various construction methods. Flat-felled and French seams are widely used in high-end leather jackets and serve a different purpose.
Design Intent vs. Objective Quality
Similarly, the leather’s finish reflects design intent rather than a strict measure of quality. The RW jacket has a more polished, uniform surface, while Master Supply Co.’s roughout and vegetable-tanned options are designed to evolve with wear. In the end, these differences seem more about aesthetic preference than objective quality concerns.
As an analogy, for me, comparing the jackets in these photos is like comparing a pair of Red Wing Iron Rangers in rough-out leather to Red Wing Beckman's in smooth leather. I don't mean to suggest the comparison is not useful or valid., only that the comparison clarified for me the stylistic details I appreciate about the MSC jacket.
I'm not trying to defend the jacket or even my choice to purchase. I'm just sharing my rationale and my understanding of these details. If I do have problems with the construction in any way, I will make sure to post here and share the issue as well as any corresponding quality-of-service details.
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You misapprehend the nature of my comment. It was a directive and not a request.
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