Code: 55091
An original pair of British 1941 Pattern Khaki Drill Shorts dated 1943 which are in stunning, unworn new old stock condition.
Unlike a lot of KD items offered onto the market today, these shorts are clearly British made and much rarer than theatre made examples. They are the standard 1941 pattern with the first field dressing pocket placed on the right hip, vegetable ivory (plastic) buttons and the double belt and buckle fastening to the waist.
This pattern of shorts saw widespread issue throughout the Second World War with the British Army, RAF and Royal Navy amongst others. They are made from a light tan coloured cotton drill which is well suited to the tropics, being issued to troops in North Africa, the Far East, Italy and the Mediterranean throughout the conflict.
The original label is still present to the rear of the shorts and is bright and legible. It bears the title of 'Khaki Drill Shorts 1941 Pattern' and states the size as 16. The maker's name of 'Chas Willaims & Co. Ltd' is present as is the 1943 date and the War Department broad arrow marking. Inside the shorts there is a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the lette 'N' which confirms 1943 as the year of issue.
The shorts will suit someone of around a 32" waist and when laid flat they measure -
Waist - 16"
Rise - 16"
Inside leg - 13 1/2"
Cuff - 13"
Outside leg - 27"
The shorts are in excellent condition as can be seen in the pictures. They have clearly never been issued or worn and would be very hard to better. There are some light marks etc from storage which are illustrated in the pictures. The shorts are a vintage item so many have small flaws commensurate with age.
A great example of this pattern of wartime shorts which would be very hard to better!
