I'm assuming that the last two pictures on 5* web site show the original left and the copy right.
Second, between the D-1 & M-444, which has shorter fleece? Finally and heretically, could both be ordered with the same pile thickness even if the difference is strictly true to the original.
Epps are pointless.......May I suggest to take in consideration also a B-6? It is a bit more elaborate than a D-1 (same shearling thickness) and has: hand warmer pockets, bi-swing back and side zipper/buckle adjustments. The only major “con” the B-6 has is that it fits trimmer than the other sheepskin military jackets.
I like the looks of the B-6 jacket a lot. However, it has two things going against it. The 1st is that the shearling is quite thick, more than twice as thick as the thickest shearling of either the M-444 or D-1 and I live in Florida and since Shawn doesn't make one, customizing an already expensive copy could get even steeper. The last point is that for the price, I can by a 5* and go on a plantation quail hunt in South Georgia (including lodging, meals and ammo) and the quail hunt is going to win every time.
For the purists, when Wilber and Orville taught me to fly, any jacket was a flight jacket and, thus, authentic.