M41 Jacket Question

Was there ever a difference between M41 jackets for officers and enlisted men?

I'm looking to badge up an M41 jacket for the 508th, so Officers bars, 508th pocket patch on the front and obviously 82nd SSI.

I'm sure I've read somewhere that they had a slightly different cut of jacket but could be dreaming and I was wondering if anyone knew or could look into the GI Collectors guide and see if it gives any info just so I can start to track down a repro jacket or if a regular M41 is ok to use!

Thanks,

I'm pretty sure there was a difference, perhaps just in the cut and quality of the material used?

Jon

Basically there is no difference in jacket. The officer 'shade', 'style' and 'cut' are all isms created by SOF and reenactors. The 41 jacket is a field uniform and like all other field items (except maybe a privately worn shirt) it was the same as EM.

Agreed there are no differences between M41s for EM and officers.

Basically, the Quatermaster would get contractors to manufacture M41s, so you would get little variations between manufacturers.

EM would be issued M41s whereas officers had to purchase their kit (lets stay on M41s) from the QMD or have their own M41 tailor made (more seen in high ranking staff officers).

Then there are chances that some M41s be retailored to fit better (both EM and officers), as you would see for wool trousers, 4 pockets, etc...

But all in all, there is no difference in Army spec issued M41s.

French Pat

Great replies guys, thanks for that!

While I'm here and can buy them tax free I plan on buying a few and have some deidcated ones for different divs/units. So I now know I can badge up one for a 1st Lt for the 82nd and not worry that I've buggered it up!