RAF 1941 Pattern Life Vest Help

[unclegrumpy]

Can anyone tell me anything about these two RAF 1941 Pattern Life Vests?

I am trying to both date them, and get an idea of the extra bits I would need to hunt for. Would also be interested in any good web links that might discuss them.

Thanks!

One's tag is marked:

CROWN
A.M.

Contract No. STORES
5612/c/34C

Type Flap
SIZE LARGE

The other one, which I assume is a later issue, has a large two part pocket sewn on the right side for I believe an emergency light, and a rubberized canvas flap on the left side, for exactly what I am not sure of.

It's tag is marked:

SERIAL No. 5607
Iden. No. M/50242
G.B. 9804
Size LARGE
Con. N 5525

CROWN
A.M.

 

[Andrew]

I'll dig mine out tonight and see if I can find out anything.

 

[philip.ed]

I think it's hard to date without any real date-code present. If there is a broad-arrow on the jacket, that usually means it is 194_ at the earliest, but I can't remember when it was introduced sorry.

Andrew, weren't you going to photograph your RAF Mae Wests?

 

[unclegrumpy]

Thanks!

The "Stores" vest has a broad arrow and "Made in England" stamped on the outside. I am thinking the "Made in England" might mean it made it onto the surplus market.

The vest with the light pocket does not have a broad arrow that I can find, but does have an additional Crown AM rubber stamped into the neck. It also has a faint stamp with some numbers that I am guessing is an inspectors acceptance mark.

 

[Andrew]

Sorry guys, didn't get into my box of stuff just yet so can't offer any info or pics. I'll try over the xmas break.

Ben, don't get too excited about my '32 pattern, it's one of those RCAF ones and i've had a mind to sell it for a while. Do you have Mick's blue Luftwaffe/ RAF book? I'm pretty sure the details UG needs might be in there. I only have the white one.

 

[unclegrumpy]

Another question...are there RCAF versions of the 1941 Pattern Vest as well?

I only have a copy of Mick's white book too... I guess I might have to spring for the blue one!

Thanks!

 

[philip.ed]

Yes, they're all excellent!
Cheers Andrew, still a worthy piece to have. I have been meaning to follow up on a RCAF one I was offered, as my Uncle has one, and it makes a lovely display piece.
Regarding RCAF 1941 patterns, I've never seen one, but it could be possible...I think I've seen indian made 1941 patterns...

You may have more luck posting here as well: http://www.network54.com/Forum/180748/ a great bunch of chaps , and some of their knowledge is extraordinary

 

[unclegrumpy]

Thanks for the link Ben! I can see from a quick look, that I could get into all kinds of trouble :shock:

 

[Andrew]

Cory, here's a link to an excellent French forum where the 41 pattern is described in fantastic detail with all the bits needed to complete.

See if you can spot a familiar old face or two in there So that's where they go to play.... :lol:

http://usaaf.forumactif.com/t289-mae-west-pattern-41

 

[unclegrumpy]

Thanks Andrew! That was what I was looking for.

Here is the same link, but translated into English:

http://translate.google.com/translate?h ... md%3Divnso

 

[philip.ed]

Interesting site, some nice pictures there...shame it's in French though.

 

[unclegrumpy]

Try this Ben...

http://translate.google.com/translate?h ... md%3Divnso

 

[philip.ed]

Many thanks