#86295 Available
US WW2 M1 Flak Vest 'MECO'
Category:
€ 795,00
In a very good condition a stunning US WW2 M1 Flak Vest.
The flak vest was developed when October 1942 report revealed 70% of mortal wounds were caused by low-velocity projectiles. Designed by the UK firm Wilkinson Sword company, it consisted of a canvas vest lined with hundreds of overlapping steel plates to allow both flexibility and protection. Pulling a central red ripcord instantly jettisoned the heavy 25 pound vest. UK production proved slow, and a US mass-produced vest was adopted in October 1943. By January 1944 enough suits were available to equip all heavy bombardment groups in the ETO. No airmen would want to fly over the deadly skies of Germany without this vital life saving gear.
The “Wilkinson Sword” version features color matched drab brown canvas, soft white corduroy backing, and nickel plated hardware. Complete with the bright red felt ripcord to eject the vest and characteristic "Broad Arrow" stamp.
The more heavily reinforced US version features mid-war OD green canvas, subdued release tapes, and blackened hardware, complete with spec nomenclature tags and weight stamps. Each component can also be ordered and used individually.
This US made example comes with all labels on all components on the inside.
Nicely maker marked and 1943 dated.
On the outside the vest comes with markings on front and back side.
A stunning harder to find vest for mannequin display!
Because of the weight, shippingcost is on request!