Purchasing army surplus can be a great way to acquire durable, high-quality gear at a fraction of the original cost. Whether you're looking for outdoor clothing, camping equipment, or military uniforms, Army Surplus offers a wide range of items that are built to last. However, with the growing popularity of surplus gear, it’s important to be able to distinguish genuine army surplus from imitations. In this guide, we’ll take you through the essential steps to help you identify authentic army surplus, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
1. Understand What Army Surplus Is
Before diving into how to identify genuine army surplus, it’s crucial to understand what surplus means. Army surplus refers to goods that were once used by or intended for military personnel but are no longer required. The military sells these items off and often include clothing, equipment, and accessories. The key appeal of army surplus lies in the fact that these items are designed for extreme conditions, making them perfect for outdoor use, whether it's for hiking, camping, or military reenactments.
You can find a variety of military kits, ranging from army and navy kits to cadets kits and ACF uniforms. Each of these items was originally made for specific military forces and now serves various purposes for civilians, whether for practical use or as collectables.
2. Inspect the Labels and Markings
One of the most reliable ways to verify the authenticity of army surplus is by checking the labels and markings. Genuine army kits often include specific military codes, numbers, or contract details that indicate their origin. These markings might also include the country of origin, the date of production, and the size in military terms (which can differ from civilian sizing).
For example, authentic military uniforms and other gear like navy kit and cadets kit will have official insignia or labels sewn into the fabric. This is a clear indicator that the item was made for military use. If the item lacks any form of labelling or the tags seem generic, there’s a strong chance it may be a replica.
3. Examine the Quality of the Material
Genuine army surplus is known for its durability and the high quality of its materials. The military kit is designed to endure extreme weather conditions, heavy wear, and rough handling. If you’re examining a piece of walking equipment or a military uniform, the fabric should feel rugged, thicker than typical civilian gear, and well-constructed. An authentic army kit often features materials like Gore-Tex or heavy-duty canvas, which is designed to be waterproof and wear-resistant.
On the other hand, replicas or imitation army surplus often use cheaper, lower-quality fabrics. If the material feels lightweight or flimsy, it’s unlikely to be genuine military gear. This rule applies to everything from army kits to ACF uniforms and even camping equipment.
4. Check for Wear and Tear
Authentic army surplus is usually either unused (often labelled as "new old stock") or used in training or combat scenarios. It’s common for genuine items to show signs of wear and tear, such as slight fading, small scuffs, or patches. These are indications that the item was actually used by military personnel, adding to its authenticity and historical value.
However, while some wear is acceptable, be wary of excessive damage. If an item appears overly worn or damaged, such as holes in the fabric or non-functional zippers, it might not be worth purchasing unless you're specifically looking for distressed items.
5. Beware of "Too New" Items
One red flag to look out for when purchasing army surplus is gear that appears overly new or pristine. While it’s possible to find unused military kits, most army surplus has been stored for extended periods or used. If an item, especially military uniforms or camping equipment looks brand new but is being sold as surplus, it may be a reproduction rather than an authentic military issue.
This is particularly important when buying items like navy kit or cadets kit, which are often reproduced for fashion or commercial use. Always ask the seller for details about the item's history if it looks too new to be surplus.
6. Know Your Trusted Sources
Not all army surplus stores or websites are created equal, and it’s crucial to buy from trusted, reputable sellers. Look for stores that specialise in genuine army surplus and have a good reputation. Online, read customer reviews and look for sellers that provide detailed information about the origin of their items.
Many established surplus retailers will clearly state the military origin of their products, whether they are part of an army kit, navy kit, or cadets kit. Trusted sellers are also more likely to offer accurate descriptions and disclose whether the item is used, unused, or a reproduction.
7. Look for Unique Features
Many army surplus items come with features you won’t find in civilian gear, such as unique pockets, reinforced stitching, or modular attachments. This is particularly true for military uniforms, camping equipment, and walking equipment, where extra durability and functionality are essential.
For example, an ACF uniform or military uniform might have specific design elements like epaulettes, heavy-duty buttons, or camouflage patterns designed for specific environments. These unique features are key indicators of genuine military design and should not be overlooked when assessing authenticity.
8. Price Considerations
The price of army surplus can also be a telltale sign of authenticity. Genuine army surplus, especially in good condition, is usually priced higher than replicas due to its quality and durability. However, it’s still relatively affordable compared to brand new outdoor or military gear.
If you come across a deal that seems too good to be true, such as a full set of army kit or walking equipment at a significantly lower price than usual, there’s a chance that the item may not be authentic. Always compare prices from multiple sources to ensure you're getting genuine products at a fair price.
Final Thoughts
Identifying genuine army surplus requires a careful eye and a bit of research, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Whether you're after a sturdy military uniform, functional walking equipment, or a unique piece of camping equipment, authentic army surplus offers quality that’s hard to match.
By following the tips in this guide—checking labels, inspecting material quality, considering wear and tear, and buying from trusted sources—you can confidently purchase army surplus that will serve you well for years to come.
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