U.S. military contracts can be cumbersomely large things. Oftentimes, the government over-budgets for what it needs, ends up with way too much, and then sells the extra product (or releases the manufacturer to sell it) back to the civilian market, secondhand, as US army surplus.
Strictly speaking, surplus comes from production that was intended for the military, but often, the term is loosely used to refer to any gear that is military-esque. For instance, if it’s new-production goods or uniforms that are intended for reenactment or just to mimic military models, it’s not surplus, but it often gets the moniker anyway.
Regardless of whether we’re talking about genuine U.S. army surplus or just reproduction military gear, both can offer incredible value. Here’s what to know.
Why Us Army Surplus Often Constitutes a Good Buy
The main argument in favor of U.S. Army surplus is price. Since the military has no use for it, it gets rid of it at a steep discount that sellers can then pass onto their customers. As a result, military surplus, or “milsurp” as it is sometimes called, is considerably cheaper than the market prices of comparable goods and equipment.
The other big prong of military surplus that makes it attractive is the quality. Since military surplus is intended for military use, the contractors that produce it must adhere to stringent quality control standards known as “military specifications,” also referred to as “mil spec.”
Granted, “mil spec” gear, as it is sometimes called, is in no way inherently superior across the board to what’s available to civilians, but the quality is consistent and you know what you’re getting.
And of course, for some buyers, there is the aesthetic to consider. Some buyers prefer the general look and feel of military surplus field gear, like entrenching tools, flashlights, canteens, mess kits, clothing, and even uniforms. It is often functional more than stylistic, and designed to perform under harsh conditions.
With that said, what about the market for field gear and reproductions that are designed to look and operate like U.S. Army surplus, but which really aren’t?
What About Reproduction Field Gear?
When it comes to reproduction military gear, there are some things you need to be aware of.
First off, unless it is manufactured to the specifications to which the original gear that it copies was, it won’t offer the same level of quality. It might, however – you just need to be aware of where it was made and what military specifications, if any, it fulfills.
The other is that reproduction militaria is often considerably more expensive than true military surplus. Military surplus is sold at steep discounts because it is just that, surplus; reproduction gear is newly manufactured and commands a steeper price.
However, it should also be noted that reproduction gear is, in many cases, in better shape than genuine military surplus, especially if the military surplus was ever issued or shipped. Some military surplus is in “never issued” condition, which means it is new, but not all milsurp is.
All this means is you need to be a smart buyer and to know what you’re looking for. There are situations in which either a reproduction or a genuine piece of military surplus (or both) could meet your needs.
Where to Get Reproduction Field Gear, Uniforms, and More
If you’re looking for reproduction field gear, uniforms, clothing, and other accessories that servicemen carried during WWII, arguably the best place to get it is At The Front. They carry a wide range of uniforms, footwear, gear and other accessories manufactured to a high degree of quality and in most cases, are extremely authentic and faithful in design to the originals. For more information visit their website or get in touch with them directly at 270-384-1965.
