I have a problem.
Well, to be honest I have several, but today we’re going to discuss my issues with buying military surplus items. You see, I have a nearly crippling addiction to mil-surp clothing and gear.
I don’t know why I buy so much surplus. I do know when it started though. In the days of my youth, there were several Army-Navy stores in the area. As an intrepid young man who enjoyed the outdoors, they were my source for the gear and clothing I needed for my adventures. I still remember my first purchase, a pistol belt with a canteen canteen cup and cover. I think I paid 75 cents for it. That purchase, intended for an overnight camping trip with my buddies, started a life-long love affair with surplus.
Over the years, my collection of surplus has grown. It includes items from more than two dozen countries and 80 years of development. Some of it gets used on a regular basis, some is just gathering dust and some is on display.
I have learned a few things about surplus and how to shop for it that I’d like to share. First and foremost, know what you’re looking at and what you’re using it for. This ensures you aren’t overpaying for an item or buying something unsuited to your purpose.
Second, inspect the item if you can. Look for things like tears, stains, worn spots, as well as overall condition. I currently do a lot of my surplus shopping online, and that makes it a bit more difficult. Reputable sites like Americana Pipedream, Sarco, and Varusteleka will work with you if you get something in worse condition than you expected.
If you can, look for unissued clothing. It is getting more difficult to get unissued surplus, but if you can find it, it’s worth the premium you’ll pay. If you’re looking at previously issued TA-50 type gear, check the grade. Most surplus sites will list a condition grade and they all vary. It’s usually worth it to get the higher grade, but not always. That kind of stuff is usually pretty durable and a few oil stains won’t hurt it.
Third, be sure you’re getting the proper size and fit. Either try it on or use a sizing guide for online purchases. Sizing conventions vary from country to country. Most eastern bloc stuff runs very small compared to US sizing, but not always. Cut will also vary. I bought a set of Croatian combat uniforms that while the waist and chest were correct, the cut was too slim. I ended up exchanging them for the next size up.
Fourth and finally, take a look at the quality of construction. Not all military surplus is the same. Most of us are used to the quality of US issued gear. It’s generally high quality with very good QC. A lot of eastern bloc stuff is cheaply made and doesn’t last the way western made gear does. Am I trying to steer you away from that stuff? No. Just be aware that it may not be made to the same standard you’re used to.
As a side note, while doing a bit of research for this piece, I wound up buying more surplus. This time its this ruck, the CFP-90, from Varusteleka. It was the bridge between ALICE and the current issue MOLLE rucks.
It consists of a main pack and an ‘assault’ style day pack. I remember liking this ruck when they were first issued. And to be honest, my ALICE pack is getting a bit worn and in need of replacement. The best part? The whole thing cost under $200 with shipping.
Good luck and happy shopping!