Original 1940s B-15 Flying Jacket - Size 42

Code: 52506

An original B-15 Flying Jacket dating from the 1940s and in good, wearable condition. 

This pattern of jacket came into issue with the USAAF in 1944 replacing the earlier B-10 flying jacket and saw wide issue with American units for the rest of the war and for some years after. It is now without a doubt one of the most iconic flying jackets to have ever been made.

The jacket features a green coloured cotton sateen shell and a brown alpaca lining. The front fastens with a brass 'Talon' brand zipper as are commonly found on American military and civilian jackets during this period. The zip is offset to one side giving the front a slightly asymmetric look which is a key feature of USAAF issued jackets. Slash pockets are located to the front and feature wool pocket bags and fasten with press studs. Two interior pockets are also present as is correct for this pattern and a pen pocket is located to the top of the left sleeve. The waistband and cuffs are a standard US army green colour and made of wool in a ribbed pattern. The collar is faced with a dark brown fur and features a throat latch which also has the same fur, as can be seen in picture 8. 

There are no labels or markings inside the jacket to help identify if it is a military or civilian made example. It is a large size which will suit around a 42" chest, depending on desired fit. When laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 24"
Waist - 19 1/2"
Inside arm - 18 3/4"
Outside arm - 24 1/2"
Shoulders - 20 1/2"
Length - 25 1/2"

The jacket is in worn condition with various signs of age and wear. One of the pop studs which fastens the interior pocket has pulled through the material (picture 14) And the right hand outer pocket press stud doesn't appear to want to fasten. There are some holes to the wool waistband and cuffs and some wear to the cotton shell above the cuff. There is some staining and some other small issues but overall the jacket displays well and is still very wearable. 

A nice original 1940s jacket with lots of great details and in a hard to find larger size!