Got my jacket when I was 17 years old and I will be 60 in August. I swear guys it still looks like the day I got it! No issues with snaps zipper or buttons and drawstrings not rotted . Always washed in lite detergent and hung out to dry. Still vibrant colors and all. Absolutely love this jacket and I cannot tell you how much crap this thing has been through, especially my younger days deer hunting in central Mississippi briar country!! Buy yourself one …. You will not regret it.
Ive been wearing a surplus m65 since I was 18 (1982 ) . The style and comfort is unbeatable . Still sporting a m65 for my Autumn/winter jacket at the age of 58 .
When I was stationed at Rhein Main AB. West Germany. I worked mainly on a flight line on cargo aircraft. No office, inside a step van was our office. The " 65 " with liner was just enough. We were issued parkas, big bulky coats. Warm but was a load to work in. Went back to the field jacket, liner, army button sweater, insulated under wear and a scarf,with a helmet winter cap...not as bulky but it worked to a degree. Really love the M 65. Only complaint was we were issued rubber boots, not insulated, stand in slushy snow for a few hours the feet get numb, could not feel. Went around kicking things trying to get feeling back. Four years of that. I use to laugh how after twelve hour shifts, my feet would be numb, get home, sleep six hours, get up with my feet still ice cold. Get ready for another twelve shift, dress up, boots still ice cold and go another shift. Would I do that again? Yeah...worked with a bunch good guys
Same here. Bought mine in '83 when I was 17 and I can't tell you how much crap that jacket has went through! I've slowly "outgrown" it, but it's still around and I've loaned it to many people over the years! Even my two ex wives wore it a time or two!
Before I joined the Military I had the OD green version of the M-65 back in the 1980s. It had a built in felt type liner, and it was amazing. On a hunting trip, I fell in a lake. I crawled out and rung out the water. Put the jacket back on and 30 mins later it was dry and warm again.
To me British windproof smock is cut above the m65 for field use. Material is not quite as heavy duty but it makes up for it by having superiour pockets and hood. What I like about the m65 is that you can practically wear it anywhere because it is actually a bit of a fashion icon. M65 passes much better in town than baggy combat smock.
I looked for one of those before I broke down and bought a "new" m65 last year. Unfortunately, real, military issue versions of the British smock are not easy to find in the United States.
@@MrBobDobolina One word, Varusteleka...they are from Finland...Excellent prices on Euro Surplus...and great shipping terms...they actually get sizing right.
Absolutely. Not only are they fantastic bits of kit, but you can also get them in a range of colours. I have one in black and it is a stonking bit if kit. I am just about to add a Dutch army liner to it. I sprayed mine with water repellent and it has been tried and tested in the pissing Lancashire rain. It performed brilliantly. Sizes: Whereas British army stuff is currently sized for midgets, that is not the case here. I have a 42 chest and got the Large Regular. It was a good choice. A bit baggy on me, but that's the way I like it.
I bought my woodland M-65 at a vets garage sale about 7 yrs ago. I believe I paid $15. On the way home I decided to go back a buy the liner. Did so for another $10. So glad I did. Very fine condition and woodland has always been my favorite camo. Hey Grunt! You forgot to show the hood in the collar!!!
Ahhhh! Yes, I agree! I'm an old SeaBee and was issued this jacket in CUU and DCU. As I'm a military pack rat/horder, I literally just passed down 2 brand new never worn WITH liners to my son in law. He's a modern Marine (2nd CEB) and has no idea about our old 782!
I just want to thank Brent, Bill, and yourself for bringing back to life my childhood and some of the things I was raised on. I still have two or three of those jackets one is my grandfathers. They're still tough af. 🇺🇲
I want to thank you. I've been an M-65 fan since 1978. My bottom snap also crapped out. your acceptance of its limitations reminded me of better days - I'm keeping it now indefinitely!
Still my favorite jacket. Got my first one in 1979, OD green. I wore it working outside in winter. Cruised brush and it never ripped or cut going through briars & thorns. Out grew it and my youngest son still has it. 43 years and going strong! I now own one in Woodland, Three Color Desert and OCP. The newer ones have plastic zippers but they are YKK. No issues with them so far. Love the cut and the fit. With the liner in it handles most cold weather here in Gulf Coast Alabama. Thanks Randall.
Great review Troop! I got mine in 1995, Regular Army guys got two jackets, Guard and Reserve guys got one. Before Army days during my Civil Air Patrol days I actually got issued a M-1951 Field Jacket… mostly the same as a M65, but the waist draw string tied off in the outside of the jacket. You’re spot on on eBay prices… I picked up a nice NOS FJ liner for like $20 shipped. Can’t beat that! Keep up the Fire!
Standard jacket in the '70's. Wear your unit patch [or peace sign]. Walk pass the old WWII guys staring at you, like you're doing something wrong. Hey, I earned this.
I picked a military spec m65 field jacket in black from the texas thrift store the other day. It is excellent condition. Adddung a field jacket linner and its toasty warm. It's made to exact military specs by a company called Atlas.
This was one of the best issue items i had since the mid 80s! My OD green issue jacket and liner from basic training provided excellent protection from bitter cold in Newfoundland. The air force began the switch to BDU uniform but the jacket could be worn for a year or two. It was stolen in the damn chow hall! The replacement was woodland camo and just as great but not as distinctive ( the af loved their unit patches then ). The collars had an integrated hood folded in them which was useful when you weren't prepared with adequate head protection. It was the only issue item you could leave the collar up for a cool look. It's always a mistake to unzip the compartment and unfold it because i could never re stow it neatly so the collar was flat. Also the hood can slip down between the shell and lining and it drove the office weenies crazy when they inspected us from their warm buildings as we walked out into the elements. There was a parka looking hood that was issued that can button on the collar. It was effective but would look a little sloppy. When its a$$ crackin cold who would gaf? The gortex jacket that replaced it was also a great issue item. I can remember how great it was at keeping dry with the pants. After that the contractors found it very lucrative to reinvent the uniform wheel.
Just tried on my 1982 issue woodland camo jacket with liner. I had to turn in my OD green one issued in 1977. Wish I could have kept it. It still looks brand new. Was a large then still fits but an XL would be better now. I've slept in it, hunted in it. Shoveled snow in it, Only thig I never liked about it was the lack of slash pockets. I know in military not supposed to put your hands in your pockets but i loved the slash pockets in military issue parkas when it got really nippy out.
Still have my father's M-65. I wore out his M-51 (yes, it was his, he served 37 years). Granted, he had the M-51 well broken in before he gave it to me. I wore it all through high school and college, that was 40 years ago. I thought Alpha was still making true Mil-Spec M-65 jackets?
I've got one made by Propper in black. I got mine on an Amazon deal for $50 or so. I hit it with a few layers of Greenland wax and it's now waterproof. The only thing I don't like is the hood. Varusteleka makes a pretty solid smock that looks superior but it's tough to say if it is. That thing plus the liner is my winter coat here in Illinois, I keep my poncho on hand if things get too weird.
I was issued my M65 OD Green Brand New on day one of Basic in January 1984 and I still have it - 40 years old and it will last at least another 10 years .. when I got orders to Korea, I got issued Woodland Camo BDUs, in 1987, switching from OD Green Fatigues, but for some reason I was never issued a Woodland Camo M65 -- but everyone else who got issued Replacement Woodland Camo BDUs got issued a Replacement Woodland Camo M65 at the same time .. My Commander chewed my ass out for wearing my OD Green M65 with the new Woodland Camo BDUs and I told him 'issue me a Woodland Camo M65 and I'll wear it' - but I refused to buy it, when everyone else got it issued for free .. three years and 2 bases later I was still wearing my OD Green M65 over my Camo BDUs -- and there was nothing they could do about it -- because they wouldn't issue me a Replacement Woodland Camo M65 .. I got the hell out the second my re-enlistment was due ..
I did 4 years of college wearing amy dad's OD M65 in the early 70s. Great jacket except in the Eugene winter rains, but it lasted until I outgrew the sleeves and gave it back to Dad.
Biggy is finding size that fit and fit over gear. I have 3 search areas and hit and miss finding xxl/xxxl jackets and pants. Its out there but takes time to find. Most of my winter gear is surplus, Including the ICS tent you recommended(that is a BEER to you ) I can play in the woods and be warm and dry. Thanks Grunt Proof.
Agreed- I still have alot of issue stuff and two M65's with liners and they work just as good if not better than over 20 years ago. You can use Kiwi Camp Dry or some other spray on type water repellant that will help. I think the reason why alot of this old issue stuff is going up in price is because things are not made as good these days to put up with the abuse as they were back then and people are finally realizing this. That being said- nothing beats old school issue stuff. Thanks for the vids-
I use "303" Fabric Guard, the green label on white plastic spray bottle. I spray it on front and back during one of the more unpleasantly hot, humid, and sunny summer days, and let it line dry for about 45 minutes. The 303 holds up nicely for a while; I probably could re-apply once or twice a season, but I have so many other M-65's as backups that I really haven't had to bother thus far...!!!
Prices are going up because demand is going up, because people are finally starting to realize the world ain’t lookin so good lol. Lot of people starting to buy prep items way behind the curve, and the first thing they google is “military” whatever. MREs used to be $60-70 a case just a few years ago. I’ve seen them fluctuate all the way up to $300-400 a case during the covid nonsense for the same reason.
Nikwax wash-in waterproofing works great for me. I love my M65. I have two spares in case I ever obliterate mine, and one for my nephew who loves it. Keep up the great work, Randall. Carry on!
Can't beat the pants either. I've got a pair used during camping and around the house outdoor work, I'm going to guess they are 25 years old (yeah, they still fit but maxed out LOL). Great gear. The liner is a nice addition.
its so flame resistant we were trained to fight fires at camp pendleton with it. Marines on line beating the fire line with this jacket actually works to put out the smoldering fires.
Growing up, I remember my dad always wore his Vietnam Army M65 jacket all the time. I can't remember a time when he didn't wear it in the fall and winter. I bet It's still stored in his house somewhere. Tough as nails!
Alpha Industries still makes M65s in Woodland. They were original manufacturer contracted by the US government. They have been making them for over 50 years.
Before the general issue of the ECWCS, all we had for winter wear were the 50/50 (50% wool 50% cotton) long johns, your issue trousers, issue blouse, wool five button sweater, and the field jacket with liner. Local commands hated letting troops use the M65 parka+liner and field pants+liner "because they didn't look good" (until they started getting a bunch of cold weather injuries one bone chilling winter and commanders were actually getting their asses in a sling over it). Same reason we were never allowed to use the ear flaps in the BDU hat, "that looks like crap".
My Uncle gave me his navy peacoat he was issued in 1967 last year. It has some cigarette burns and signs of wear but still solid. Knowing the history of the man who wore it before adds the real value. I camp up in WV near Davis in the winter. It’s the best standing around the campfire in the snow coat for me yet.
Field Jacket liners were alright, but the old Korean war issue cold weather wool shirts were far better under the field jacket. Because like you said the M65 would get wet the field jacket liner would too and you would freeze your ass off. With the wool shirt if it got wet even with a protective covering over… ie the field jacket you still stayed warm. Learned this lesson in Höhenfels back in ‘87.
I used to have an M-65 field jacket years ago. Loved it. I have a reproduction M-41 field jacket it's a good one too cause I can wear it without looking military. The M-43 which came after it, is the field jacket that started the modern field jackets for the army.
The M65 can be had new. Alpha Industries makes them in modern fit and USGI fit. Also, the hood for the M51 fits on the M65. It's thick and has a fur lining on the opening.
I know a lot of SFers that service in Vietnam on the S.O.G teams use to have ponchos sew in to the jacket, Fatigue shirt, pants, and other equipment that need to stay dry. And the reason for it was to keep it from giving off noise. And it works I still have my father gear including my gear which i did the same then to include my Alice pack which I still have.
When I was in the Corps in the mid '80's we still had the OD green M65 - I was issued a new woodland in '86 that I never even wore. I gave that to my nephew a few years ago, he loves it. I still have my OD green M65 but rarely wear it these days. I put the iron-on USMC and EGA on both of them way back then, as well.... Fun to stumble upon this video
I have two M-65 field jacket, an olive drab and woodland camo, after years of service I still use them. The liners together with my fjallraven Greenland jacket make a perfect match when i wear them in the city.
My M65 is the best by far when it comes to quietness and stealth. The job does the picking. Very stormy the woodland Gore-Tex Parker. MY under lawyer are M65 liner or the Polar Tech. If it's real cold. I go old school. The bear jacket. I might not be the coolest kid but I'm warm. I have the marshmallow jacket. I don't trust it out in the bush.
M65, O.D. or woodland, back in the day you got soaked in it, but now you can buy water repellent underlayment. So 65, works, even wore one hauling steel all over God's green earth for 22 years in all kinds of weather 247. Still own two original issues hahahaha 😆. Great topic.
Hi from France. Yesssssssss ! M65 is really nice. Since more than 35 years i am wearing M 65. I have no more the original one US woodland, but i have Croatian copy black, green, and 2 woodland. I wear the black in town, like yesterday. Actually in Europe many Army don't have anymore pockets on the jackets, because of the bullet-proof-vest. The now French Army camo is like the multicam from US and GB, really efective camo. Nice to see you again on TH-cam.
My initial issue one was issued in 1988. I had it up through the 1990s. Didnt fit anymore (imagine that), got rid of it. Two years ago, I found an OD green one that did fit, for $20, and grabbed it. Its now my outdoor cool weather jacket. For cold, winter jackets, I much prefer the no longer issued canadian forces parka. Its quiet, and the pockets are actually more functional. And it goretex lined...
I still have the german Bundeswehr Parka (Red Cross/Technisches Hilfswerk grey version) of my father from the 70s. My little brother had it, i still have it and its not dead. It has seen copious amounts of woods, festivals, been trampled on, vomited on, my cat used it as a scratch tree, you just cant kill that thing. Nowadays i prefer the Leo Köhler KSK Smock, very tactical, robust Parka on steroids, highly reccomend it.
I have found with mine that if you fold it up like you are trying to ranger roll it, but leave the hood out, then tucks the whole thing into the hood, you can fold it up quite small. I have one of the old sleep system carriers for the Vietnam Era web gear that carries it quite well, suspended under my buttpack, that sandwiches my poncho between the jacket and buttpack
Still have mine when they went to woodland pattern. I also still have my Gortex Jacket and pants. I was not a grunt I was a 13B20R3 RedLeg. 78-81, 62J20 Heavy Equipment Operator. Was at Ft.Lewis Was.81-82 9 Inf.Div 2ndBde 2Bn 15 Cbt Eng. ( Test Bed ). We were a 300 man Combat Engineer Company. I was the backhoe operator in 3rd Plt. and provided direct support 2nd Brigade 2n Battalion. When the grunts went out I went out. The 9 Infantry Division was the last straight leg division. After watching the grunts hump a 90 mm a Ma Duce they earned my respect big time and would help them out in every way that I could. Our barracks were across the parade field from 2/75 Ranger Battalion.
The wood land camouflage was the best cameo we ever had. I own 2 M-65 jackets in different colors, because they work. I agree. I own ed several in the Corps. The liners are magic as well and they are a must in order to stay warm.
There is nothing better than the M-65. Not only does it have a bottom draw string but it has a waist string as well. Not withstanding it also has those four deep outside pockets it also came with an integral hood in the collar. With the liner either in wool or the nylon (poncho liner) material it was warm as can be.
My issue M65 Field Jacket was just OD (Olive Drab) Green, no camouflage. 1962 Fort Jackson SC. One of the greatest field jackets ever made! It lasted me thru my enlistment and for years of riding my motorcycle in all weather conditions. One great design! In the winter just insert the liner and it’s pretty warm! Loved that jacket!
Get two cans of ScotchGaurd. Spray outdoors. Spray shoulders and seams heavily. It will brighten up the old faded camo a little bit also. Dry it for two days. Test it with a hose. Lol
Canadians had a similar issued "4 seasons" jacket around the same period, similar material and construction (removable woobie-esque liner). Early versions had a corduroy collar, did not age well style wise but did the job. They replaced it with the "sava" (named from the company that manufactured it I think). It attempted to improve over the 4 seasons jacket with better material....except, military bureaucracy screwed it up. They put a goretex layer on the inside and a permeable layer on the outside. When it rains, you just get heavier and sweaty. America got it right with the ECWCS shell.
I had one issued to me in the 90's. Even with the liner I still got cold at night while at CFB Petawawa. Strangely enough there were some mosquitoes big enough to get through that on a bad night!
@@rw7594 I don't remember ever wearing the jacket without the liner. One of the big differences I noticed with the Sava was the collar covering your neck. The 4 seasons lost a lot of heat through that, as well as the cotton canvas material that made the outer shell. The cold weather parka though is to this day something I will trust in arctic environments, having tested it there.
I got mine in 1992...abused a lot (mostly from ignorance) ... Frayed the cuffs to threads, repaired...but its still wearable and I do. Outstanding indeed
I still have two of these, one I am pretty sure is unused, tho has been stuffed in one of my duffle bags for years and is severely wrinkled. We had green when I was in the Marines, and we personally got camo around the time I was getting out. Don't think I was issued a camo jacket, but managed to get a couple thru the years. This jacket , the artic coat, ECW sleeping bag, the and the wool blanket are the best items I still have,
Less cold days you can wear that liner under the cuu blouse as well. Still have the two I was issued in the seabees and have no intention of getting rid of either!!!
Hey just a minute I have the O. D. Version of the I can still fit into it from the,, 1976. Great jacket. Just don't eat so much to and keep exercising more. The kit will fit.
I live in Central Wisc .Abs love my 65 .When it gets really cold like negative numbers cold ,Toss a fleece underneath and your good to go in minus numbers
The BDU camouflage pattern was issued around 82. I was stationed in Germany when we were told that we had to switch over to the new uniform. We had to purchase 5 sets of the BDU along with at least one field jacket. Sometime around 86, they came out with the summer weight BDU. We had to buy 2 sets of those. The material looked like that used to produce the jungle fatigues.
@@jayz9253 we got uniform allowances back then. Not sure it's still done the same way now, but that's how it was then. Same deal when they changed the dress uniform and PT uniform. You had to get whatever the basic issuance was that anyone entering the service then would get.
I will say that I've owned a couple of these (had to size up because workout growth) and it's just amazing. The durability, flexibility, insulation with a liner; there's just no contest. I managed to score NOS Woodland M65 from the late 1980s for I think it was 45 bucks and I can just tell it's going to be with me for years to come (if I don't size up to a large, that is).
I had one and looking for another. Hard to find around here with both the jacket/liner together. Your one looks different, seems chest pockets are longer and I am not seeing the bottom pocket. Mine, and what I see around here, have bigger lower pockets than chest pockets. Now if you want light, the 1951 Fishtail parka without liner was super in wet/windy weather.
I just got a replica M65 made by Helikon-Tex. It was about €88 and came with the removable lining. As far as I can tell it's as good as the military issue, it's a BEAST of a coat, I absolutely ADORE it! 👍😃
Best jacket ever...i remember when they were everywhere for went for around $10 a pop at the local surplus store. Ive seen guys actually stuff these things into the concealed hood and make this thing into an improvised pillow!
I use an M65 with synthetic liner when Im camping. Its robust, warm and retains warmth when wet. If you combine it with a poncho or an umbrella its its superb.
I still have one of my OD green jackets, and one of the woodland I was issued in 1987 when I arrived to my first duty post. They both still fit and work like champs!
I don't know about your guys in the states but up here m65 don't hold up to the -50 winters, maybe when the weather is a little more tame but I use the n-3b with goretex arctic combat pants. The snorkel has saved my face from the wind dozens of times
got my first one from a local thrift store for 25 bucks and it’s a woodland camo. got my second one from another local thrift for 3 bucks with the liner
Great content, was issued mine brand new in 1996, lasted for years. Been partial to that jacket ever since. Since I grew up in Montana, maybe acclimated to colder weather, but have found with liner that jacket is good to below freezing,say 20°. With a wool sweater good to 0° for me. Stationary though can be a little cool.
I started wearing my us army issue woodland camouflage ( BDU) field jacket in 1987, the start of my 26 active duty military career. I wore a ACU camouflage pattern field jacket right up until I retired in 2013 . I DID GET SOME FLACK from the die hard gortex fanatics . Most left the old SFC alone with his field jacket. Hahaha
I got an old jacket similar to that, have to check the label for mode to see if its actually the same or not. Only issues with it are: 1-a couple rips in the inner fabric that wouldn't take much to fix, and 2 it doesn't fit me anymore (I've had it since not long outta high school lol). Got the liner for it too. I used to pack just the liner on backpacking trips to wear under a light rain coat just for once we got to the top peaks for sunrise and were exposed to wind and cold to give a bit of warmth. Wish they both still fit, I haven't brought myself to get rid of them though since they're great bits of kit.
I joined the army in 1984 and still have 3 of those m65 coats . I would add 2 or 3 liners for cold weather and I'd be good to go. I love that m65 field jacket.
80s almost new and gave it to my nephew because I outgrew it. Just like my OD Green one I was issued in the 70s. The only rain gear we ever received was the poncho
Was issued my field jacket [just like yours] by the US Army in 1987 or so... Just tried it on yesterday, to make sure everything is still good to go for another winter-- and it is... It's an awesome piece of gear that's better quality than the new kit they're issuing, and the cammo is even still effective
The best thing you can do with these jackets is buy some cheep canning wax from the grocery store. Rub one of the wax bars all over the outside of the jacket. It will leave a white mess all over it. Then, use a hairdryer to heat the jacket up. You will be able to see the wax melt into the fabric. The rain will bead off of it for a long time as long as you don't dry it on high heat.
I still have my OD Green issue M65 along with a Tiger Stripe and 2 like you are modeling. I forgot I even have my Fishtail Parka with hood ,and all of them have liners. I can't wear them out.
I still have the old field jackets from the early 90's, both with liners. Then I have the old extreme cold weather jacket with rabbit fur lined hood for those -20 temps along with the old field pants with liner. Then I have the 2nd generation of gortex jacket. I wear the old field jackets more, due to less noise when hunting.
The Propper version is only $99 and works great:
www.amazon.com/shop/gruntproof/list/JY8Z764ZV6NX?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_m
Got my jacket when I was 17 years old and I will be 60 in August. I swear guys it still looks like the day I got it! No issues with snaps zipper or buttons and drawstrings not rotted . Always washed in lite detergent and hung out to dry. Still vibrant colors and all. Absolutely love this jacket and I cannot tell you how much crap this thing has been through, especially my younger days deer hunting in central Mississippi briar country!!
Buy yourself one …. You will not regret it.
Ive been wearing a surplus m65 since I was 18 (1982 ) . The style and comfort is unbeatable .
Still sporting a m65 for my Autumn/winter jacket at the age of 58 .
52 and I'm in that same club. I did BCT in 1989 in Fort Jackson.
When I was stationed at Rhein Main AB. West Germany. I worked mainly on a flight line on cargo aircraft. No office, inside a step van was our office. The " 65 " with liner was just enough. We were issued parkas, big bulky coats. Warm but was a load to work in. Went back to the field jacket, liner, army button sweater, insulated under wear and a scarf,with a helmet winter cap...not as bulky but it worked to a degree. Really love the M 65. Only complaint was we were issued rubber boots, not insulated, stand in slushy snow for a few hours the feet get numb, could not feel. Went around kicking things trying to get feeling back. Four years of that. I use to laugh how after twelve hour shifts, my feet would be numb, get home, sleep six hours, get up with my feet still ice cold. Get ready for another twelve shift, dress up, boots still ice cold and go another shift. Would I do that again? Yeah...worked with a bunch good guys
Same here. Bought mine in '83 when I was 17 and I can't tell you how much crap that jacket has went through! I've slowly "outgrown" it, but it's still around and I've loaned it to many people over the years! Even my two ex wives wore it a time or two!
@@DrivingWithDon Can't imagine not having mine. Be well brother.
I have both my Green Field Jacket and my Woodlands Field Jacket both in the rotation.
Before I joined the Military I had the OD green version of the M-65 back in the 1980s. It had a built in felt type liner, and it was amazing. On a hunting trip, I fell in a lake. I crawled out and rung out the water. Put the jacket back on and 30 mins later it was dry and warm again.
To me British windproof smock is cut above the m65 for field use. Material is not quite as heavy duty but it makes up for it by having superiour pockets and hood. What I like about the m65 is that you can practically wear it anywhere because it is actually a bit of a fashion icon. M65 passes much better in town than baggy combat smock.
I've got an arktis b310 in m81... it's a hell of a outer layer
I looked for one of those before I broke down and bought a "new" m65 last year. Unfortunately, real, military issue versions of the British smock are not easy to find in the United States.
@@MrBobDobolina One word, Varusteleka...they are from Finland...Excellent prices on Euro Surplus...and great shipping terms...they actually get sizing right.
@@r.gilman4261 Yes some great prices.
Absolutely. Not only are they fantastic bits of kit, but you can also get them in a range of colours. I have one in black and it is a stonking bit if kit. I am just about to add a Dutch army liner to it.
I sprayed mine with water repellent and it has been tried and tested in the pissing Lancashire rain. It performed brilliantly.
Sizes: Whereas British army stuff is currently sized for midgets, that is not the case here. I have a 42 chest and got the Large Regular. It was a good choice. A bit baggy on me, but that's the way I like it.
I bought my woodland M-65 at a vets garage sale about 7 yrs ago. I believe I paid $15. On the way home I decided to go back a buy the liner. Did so for another $10. So glad I did. Very fine condition and woodland has always been my favorite camo. Hey Grunt! You forgot to show the hood in the collar!!!
I found mine in dumpster when I worked for a trash company. Brand new.
Ahhhh! Yes, I agree! I'm an old SeaBee and was issued this jacket in CUU and DCU. As I'm a military pack rat/horder, I literally just passed down 2 brand new never worn WITH liners to my son in law. He's a modern Marine (2nd CEB) and has no idea about our old 782!
God doesn't need to wear camo, but when He does, He chooses M81 woodland.
Amen to that !
Well said!
Tiger stripe is cooler though
You mean your white god wears M81 Woodlands???
No Doubt.
I just want to thank Brent, Bill, and yourself for bringing back to life my childhood and some of the things I was raised on. I still have two or three of those jackets one is my grandfathers. They're still tough af. 🇺🇲
...by the way, I'll be root yal on the sere challenges. Good luck 👏🙏
thanks! They're good people
I want to thank you. I've been an M-65 fan since 1978. My bottom snap also crapped out. your acceptance of its limitations reminded me of better days - I'm keeping it now indefinitely!
Still my favorite jacket. Got my first one in 1979, OD green. I wore it working outside in winter. Cruised brush and it never ripped or cut going through briars & thorns. Out grew it and my youngest son still has it. 43 years and going strong! I now own one in Woodland, Three Color Desert and OCP. The newer ones have plastic zippers but they are YKK. No issues with them so far. Love the cut and the fit. With the liner in it handles most cold weather here in Gulf Coast Alabama. Thanks Randall.
Great review Troop! I got mine in 1995, Regular Army guys got two jackets, Guard and Reserve guys got one. Before Army days during my Civil Air Patrol days I actually got issued a M-1951 Field Jacket… mostly the same as a M65, but the waist draw string tied off in the outside of the jacket.
You’re spot on on eBay prices… I picked up a nice NOS FJ liner for like $20 shipped. Can’t beat that!
Keep up the Fire!
Standard jacket in the '70's. Wear your unit patch [or peace sign]. Walk pass the old WWII guys staring at you, like you're doing something wrong. Hey, I earned this.
I picked a military spec m65 field jacket in black from the texas thrift store the other day. It is excellent condition. Adddung a field jacket linner and its toasty warm. It's made to exact military specs by a company called Atlas.
This was one of the best issue items i had since the mid 80s! My OD green issue jacket and liner from basic training provided excellent protection from bitter cold in Newfoundland. The air force began the switch to BDU uniform but the jacket could be worn for a year or two. It was stolen in the damn chow hall! The replacement was woodland camo and just as great but not as distinctive ( the af loved their unit patches then ). The collars had an integrated hood folded in them which was useful when you weren't prepared with adequate head protection. It was the only issue item you could leave the collar up for a cool look. It's always a mistake to unzip the compartment and unfold it because i could never re stow it neatly so the collar was flat. Also the hood can slip down between the shell and lining and it drove the office weenies crazy when they inspected us from their warm buildings as we walked out into the elements. There was a parka looking hood that was issued that can button on the collar. It was effective but would look a little sloppy. When its a$$ crackin cold who would gaf?
The gortex jacket that replaced it was also a great issue item. I can remember how great it was at keeping dry with the pants.
After that the contractors found it very lucrative to reinvent the uniform wheel.
Just tried on my 1982 issue woodland camo jacket with liner. I had to turn in my OD green one issued in 1977. Wish I could have kept it. It still looks brand new. Was a large then still fits but an XL would be better now. I've slept in it, hunted in it. Shoveled snow in it, Only thig I never liked about it was the lack of slash pockets. I know in military not supposed to put your hands in your pockets but i loved the slash pockets in military issue parkas when it got really nippy out.
I got my first field jacket m65 which was of green in 1974. And yes it’s been around but truly a great piece of gear
Still have my father's M-65. I wore out his M-51 (yes, it was his, he served 37 years). Granted, he had the M-51 well broken in before he gave it to me. I wore it all through high school and college, that was 40 years ago.
I thought Alpha was still making true Mil-Spec M-65 jackets?
I've got one made by Propper in black. I got mine on an Amazon deal for $50 or so. I hit it with a few layers of Greenland wax and it's now waterproof. The only thing I don't like is the hood. Varusteleka makes a pretty solid smock that looks superior but it's tough to say if it is. That thing plus the liner is my winter coat here in Illinois, I keep my poncho on hand if things get too weird.
I was issued my M65 OD Green Brand New on day one of Basic in January 1984 and I still have it - 40 years old and it will last at least another 10 years .. when I got orders to Korea, I got issued Woodland Camo BDUs, in 1987, switching from OD Green Fatigues, but for some reason I was never issued a Woodland Camo M65 -- but everyone else who got issued Replacement Woodland Camo BDUs got issued a Replacement Woodland Camo M65 at the same time ..
My Commander chewed my ass out for wearing my OD Green M65 with the new Woodland Camo BDUs and I told him 'issue me a Woodland Camo M65 and I'll wear it' - but I refused to buy it, when everyone else got it issued for free .. three years and 2 bases later I was still wearing my OD Green M65 over my Camo BDUs -- and there was nothing they could do about it -- because they wouldn't issue me a Replacement Woodland Camo M65 .. I got the hell out the second my re-enlistment was due ..
I did 4 years of college wearing amy dad's OD M65 in the early 70s. Great jacket except in the Eugene winter rains, but it lasted until I outgrew the sleeves and gave it back to Dad.
Biggy is finding size that fit and fit over gear. I have 3 search areas and hit and miss finding xxl/xxxl jackets and pants. Its out there but takes time to find. Most of my winter gear is surplus, Including the ICS tent you recommended(that is a BEER to you ) I can play in the woods and be warm and dry. Thanks Grunt Proof.
Agreed- I still have alot of issue stuff and two M65's with liners and they work just as good if not better than over 20 years ago. You can use Kiwi Camp Dry or some other spray on type water repellant that will help. I think the reason why alot of this old issue stuff is going up in price is because things are not made as good these days to put up with the abuse as they were back then and people are finally realizing this. That being said- nothing beats old school issue stuff. Thanks for the vids-
I use "303" Fabric Guard, the green label on white plastic spray bottle. I spray it on front and back during one of the more unpleasantly hot, humid, and sunny summer days, and let it line dry for about 45 minutes. The 303 holds up nicely for a while; I probably could re-apply once or twice a season, but I have so many other M-65's as backups that I really haven't had to bother thus far...!!!
@@hiwayman981 Ive never tried the 303 fabric guard. I think Ill get some and give it a shot-
Prices are going up because demand is going up, because people are finally starting to realize the world ain’t lookin so good lol. Lot of people starting to buy prep items way behind the curve, and the first thing they google is “military” whatever. MREs used to be $60-70 a case just a few years ago. I’ve seen them fluctuate all the way up to $300-400 a case during the covid nonsense for the same reason.
@@nicholassorensen9035 Agreed- Im glad that I saved alot of stuff that I aquired during 22 yrs in the Army.
Nikwax wash-in waterproofing works great for me. I love my M65. I have two spares in case I ever obliterate mine, and one for my nephew who loves it. Keep up the great work, Randall. Carry on!
Can't beat the pants either. I've got a pair used during camping and around the house outdoor work, I'm going to guess they are 25 years old (yeah, they still fit but maxed out LOL). Great gear. The liner is a nice addition.
its so flame resistant we were trained to fight fires at camp pendleton with it. Marines on line beating the fire line with this jacket actually works to put out the smoldering fires.
Growing up, I remember my dad always wore his Vietnam Army M65 jacket all the time. I can't remember a time when he didn't wear it in the fall and winter. I bet It's still stored in his house somewhere. Tough as nails!
Alpha Industries still makes M65s in Woodland. They were original manufacturer contracted by the US government. They have been making them for over 50 years.
Got my M65 jacket and liner (smoking jacket) from Alpha, multiple versions. Their store on Amazon has them. Love it.
Before the general issue of the ECWCS, all we had for winter wear were the 50/50 (50% wool 50% cotton) long johns, your issue trousers, issue blouse, wool five button sweater, and the field jacket with liner. Local commands hated letting troops use the M65 parka+liner and field pants+liner "because they didn't look good" (until they started getting a bunch of cold weather injuries one bone chilling winter and commanders were actually getting their asses in a sling over it). Same reason we were never allowed to use the ear flaps in the BDU hat, "that looks like crap".
Love it Sarge. Thanks for the up front, clear cut communication Grunt style!
👊🏻
My Uncle gave me his navy peacoat he was issued in 1967 last year. It has some cigarette burns and signs of wear but still solid. Knowing the history of the man who wore it before adds the real value. I camp up in WV near Davis in the winter. It’s the best standing around the campfire in the snow coat for me yet.
awesome
Field Jacket liners were alright, but the old Korean war issue cold weather wool shirts were far better under the field jacket.
Because like you said the M65 would get wet the field jacket liner would too and you would freeze your ass off.
With the wool shirt if it got wet even with a protective covering over… ie the field jacket you still stayed warm.
Learned this lesson in Höhenfels back in ‘87.
Picked up a couple of thinsulate liners for my m65 at brigade quartermaster back in the day..hands down I LOVE this jacket!
You are absolutely spot on. Got my issued OD, a woodland and a desert tricolor one. Love em all.
I used to have an M-65 field jacket years ago. Loved it. I have a reproduction M-41 field jacket it's a good one too cause I can wear it without looking military. The M-43 which came after it, is the field jacket that started the modern field jackets for the army.
The M65 can be had new. Alpha Industries makes them in modern fit and USGI fit.
Also, the hood for the M51 fits on the M65. It's thick and has a fur lining on the opening.
I know a lot of SFers that service in Vietnam on the S.O.G teams use to have ponchos sew in to the jacket, Fatigue shirt, pants, and other equipment that need to stay dry. And the reason for it was to keep it from giving off noise. And it works I still have my father gear including my gear which i did the same then to include my Alice pack which I still have.
When I was in the Corps in the mid '80's we still had the OD green M65 - I was issued a new woodland in '86 that I never even wore. I gave that to my nephew a few years ago, he loves it. I still have my OD green M65 but rarely wear it these days. I put the iron-on USMC and EGA on both of them way back then, as well.... Fun to stumble upon this video
Hard to beat an M-65 field jacket , tried and true , thanks for sharing , God bless !
"I'm still waiting on that one", my new legendary phrase. Thank you.
My dad still has his OD green one issued in the 70's. Winter work jacket for 45+years.
I have two M-65 field jacket, an olive drab and woodland camo, after years of service I still use them. The liners together with my fjallraven Greenland jacket make a perfect match when i wear them in the city.
I still use the one I was issued in 1982. I wish I still had the od green ones that I gave away when we went to the woodland camo, however.
Question of the year: what's the best military surplus jacket out there? Let's hear ya!
My M65 is the best by far when it comes to quietness and stealth. The job does the picking. Very stormy the woodland Gore-Tex Parker. MY under lawyer are M65 liner or the Polar Tech. If it's real cold. I go old school. The bear jacket. I might not be the coolest kid but I'm warm. I have the marshmallow jacket. I don't trust it out in the bush.
@@louiemorris9598 I still have the old black bear suit. Very comfy in dry winter conditions
M65, O.D. or woodland, back in the day you got soaked in it, but now you can buy water repellent underlayment. So 65, works, even wore one hauling steel all over God's green earth for 22 years in all kinds of weather 247.
Still own two original issues hahahaha 😆.
Great topic.
My vote goes to the british PCS smock
The M65 for when you want to be left alone. 🇺🇸
Hi from France.
Yesssssssss ! M65 is really nice.
Since more than 35 years i am wearing M 65.
I have no more the original one US woodland, but i have Croatian copy black, green, and 2 woodland. I wear the black in town, like yesterday.
Actually in Europe many Army don't have anymore pockets on the jackets, because of the bullet-proof-vest. The now French Army camo is like the multicam from US and GB, really efective camo.
Nice to see you again on TH-cam.
I have two M-65's one is a new never issued the other is a well loved one that I use all winter if it gets cold I put the liner in.
I have my fathers m65 with liner. I live in upstate NY and it saved my butt when i wrecked my car in a snowstorm. Great piece of gear in my book.
My initial issue one was issued in 1988. I had it up through the 1990s. Didnt fit anymore (imagine that), got rid of it.
Two years ago, I found an OD green one that did fit, for $20, and grabbed it. Its now my outdoor cool weather jacket. For cold, winter jackets, I much prefer the no longer issued canadian forces parka. Its quiet, and the pockets are actually more functional. And it goretex lined...
I still have the german Bundeswehr Parka (Red Cross/Technisches Hilfswerk grey version) of my father from the 70s. My little brother had it, i still have it and its not dead. It has seen copious amounts of woods, festivals, been trampled on, vomited on, my cat used it as a scratch tree, you just cant kill that thing. Nowadays i prefer the Leo Köhler KSK Smock, very tactical, robust Parka on steroids, highly reccomend it.
Yep. M-65 just rock. I agree about the comfort level. Like wearing your old favorite sweatshirt.
I have found with mine that if you fold it up like you are trying to ranger roll it, but leave the hood out, then tucks the whole thing into the hood, you can fold it up quite small. I have one of the old sleep system carriers for the Vietnam Era web gear that carries it quite well, suspended under my buttpack, that sandwiches my poncho between the jacket and buttpack
I was issued that jacket in 1983 (Army) and after my honorable discharge I gave it to my lil brother and he still uses it today while hunting
Just scored a 2001 woodland m65 field jacket that was so new it had no stitch patterns anywhere inside or out. $28 at the milsurp. Unbeatable.
Find the liner and you're GTG
Still have mine when they went to woodland pattern.
I also still have my Gortex Jacket and pants.
I was not a grunt I was a 13B20R3 RedLeg.
78-81, 62J20 Heavy Equipment Operator.
Was at Ft.Lewis Was.81-82 9 Inf.Div
2ndBde 2Bn 15 Cbt Eng. ( Test Bed ).
We were a 300 man Combat Engineer Company. I was the backhoe operator in 3rd Plt. and provided direct support 2nd Brigade 2n Battalion. When the grunts went out I went out. The 9 Infantry Division was the last straight leg division.
After watching the grunts hump a 90 mm a Ma Duce they earned my respect big time and would help them out in every way that I could. Our barracks were across the parade field from 2/75 Ranger Battalion.
The wood land camouflage was the best cameo we ever had. I own 2 M-65 jackets in different colors, because they work. I agree. I own ed several in the Corps. The liners are magic as well and they are a must in order to stay warm.
yup!
There is nothing better than the M-65. Not only does it have a bottom draw string but it has a waist string as well. Not withstanding it also has those four deep outside pockets it also came with an integral hood in the collar. With the liner either in wool or the nylon (poncho liner) material it was warm as can be.
You can also get a removable winter hood for it too
M65 Jackets and their derivatives are great. They are really easy to use with other clothing layers.
My issue M65 Field Jacket was just OD (Olive Drab) Green, no camouflage. 1962 Fort Jackson SC. One of the greatest field jackets ever made! It lasted me thru my enlistment and for years of riding my motorcycle in all weather conditions. One great design! In the winter just insert the liner and it’s pretty warm! Loved that jacket!
Get two cans of ScotchGaurd.
Spray outdoors.
Spray shoulders and seams heavily.
It will brighten up the old faded camo a little bit also. Dry it for two days.
Test it with a hose. Lol
Yep! Still have mine that I was issued. Still use it as a work jacket. Damn tough.
Canadians had a similar issued "4 seasons" jacket around the same period, similar material and construction (removable woobie-esque liner). Early versions had a corduroy collar, did not age well style wise but did the job.
They replaced it with the "sava" (named from the company that manufactured it I think). It attempted to improve over the 4 seasons jacket with better material....except, military bureaucracy screwed it up. They put a goretex layer on the inside and a permeable layer on the outside. When it rains, you just get heavier and sweaty. America got it right with the ECWCS shell.
I had one issued to me in the 90's. Even with the liner I still got cold at night while at CFB Petawawa. Strangely enough there were some mosquitoes big enough to get through that on a bad night!
@@rw7594 I don't remember ever wearing the jacket without the liner. One of the big differences I noticed with the Sava was the collar covering your neck. The 4 seasons lost a lot of heat through that, as well as the cotton canvas material that made the outer shell.
The cold weather parka though is to this day something I will trust in arctic environments, having tested it there.
I got mine in 1992...abused a lot (mostly from ignorance) ... Frayed the cuffs to threads, repaired...but its still wearable and I do. Outstanding indeed
I still have two of these, one I am pretty sure is unused, tho has been stuffed in one of my duffle bags for years and is severely wrinkled. We had green when I was in the Marines, and we personally got camo around the time I was getting out. Don't think I was issued a camo jacket, but managed to get a couple thru the years.
This jacket , the artic coat, ECW sleeping bag, the and the wool blanket are the best items I still have,
Less cold days you can wear that liner under the cuu blouse as well. Still have the two I was issued in the seabees and have no intention of getting rid of either!!!
You cannot beat military surplus...notta! I have the woodland and the OD green M 65 and liner, and that's what I roll in. Great video brother. 👍😎🇺🇸
Got mine for 8 bucks at Goodwill... used silicone waterproofing spray and boom perfect midrange jacket.
awesome
Hey just a minute I have the O. D. Version of the I can still fit into it from the,, 1976. Great jacket. Just don't eat so much to and keep exercising more. The kit will fit.
I live in Central Wisc .Abs love my 65 .When it gets really cold like negative numbers cold ,Toss a fleece underneath and your good to go in minus numbers
I've still got my old woodland jacket from late 80's, early 90's.
The BDU camouflage pattern was issued around 82. I was stationed in Germany when we were told that we had to switch over to the new uniform. We had to purchase 5 sets of the BDU along with at least one field jacket. Sometime around 86, they came out with the summer weight BDU. We had to buy 2 sets of those. The material looked like that used to produce the jungle fatigues.
You mean you have to pay for the new uniform out of your own pocket even you didn't vote to replace the old pattern with BDU?
@@jayz9253 we got uniform allowances back then. Not sure it's still done the same way now, but that's how it was then. Same deal when they changed the dress uniform and PT uniform. You had to get whatever the basic issuance was that anyone entering the service then would get.
I will say that I've owned a couple of these (had to size up because workout growth) and it's just amazing. The durability, flexibility, insulation with a liner; there's just no contest. I managed to score NOS Woodland M65 from the late 1980s for I think it was 45 bucks and I can just tell it's going to be with me for years to come (if I don't size up to a large, that is).
I have my dad's OD green m65 and its my absoulute favorite jacket I've ever had. If i need something light, I like my flecktarn coat.
I had one and looking for another. Hard to find around here with both the jacket/liner together. Your one looks different, seems chest pockets are longer and I am not seeing the bottom pocket. Mine, and what I see around here, have bigger lower pockets than chest pockets. Now if you want light, the 1951 Fishtail parka without liner was super in wet/windy weather.
I just got a replica M65 made by Helikon-Tex. It was about €88 and came with the removable lining. As far as I can tell it's as good as the military issue, it's a BEAST of a coat, I absolutely ADORE it! 👍😃
cool. Rothcos military clothing is also great
I agree helikon is really very close to original
I managed to find a new/ unused one with a newish liner. Very fortunate 👍🏽
Best jacket ever...i remember when they were everywhere for went for around $10 a pop at the local surplus store. Ive seen guys actually stuff these things into the concealed hood and make this thing into an improvised pillow!
Yep, still wear my ODG M65 issued in 1979. Tough as nails. Somebody will still be wearing it long after I’ve gone to my reward.
I use an M65 with synthetic liner when Im camping.
Its robust, warm and retains warmth when wet.
If you combine it with a poncho or an umbrella its its superb.
I still have mine issued to me in 1987 basic training at FT Benning. Still wear it occasionally.
I still have one of my OD green jackets, and one of the woodland I was issued in 1987 when I arrived to my first duty post.
They both still fit and work like champs!
Been looking for a channel like this I'm glad that I found this man
I don't know about your guys in the states but up here m65 don't hold up to the -50 winters, maybe when the weather is a little more tame but I use the n-3b with goretex arctic combat pants. The snorkel has saved my face from the wind dozens of times
Outstanding! LOVE the field jacket liner/woobie with arms. Great stuff man, thanks!
got my first one from a local thrift store for 25 bucks and it’s a woodland camo. got my second one from another local thrift for 3 bucks with the liner
I still have some of my dads gear from the military and when he was in Nam, I love his M65 gear and honestly cant get enough of it.
Great content, was issued mine brand new in 1996, lasted for years. Been partial to that jacket ever since. Since I grew up in Montana, maybe acclimated to colder weather, but have found with liner that jacket is good to below freezing,say 20°. With a wool sweater good to 0° for me. Stationary though can be a little cool.
I started wearing my us army issue woodland camouflage ( BDU) field jacket in 1987, the start of my 26 active duty military career. I wore a ACU camouflage pattern field jacket right up until I retired in 2013 . I DID GET SOME FLACK from the die hard gortex fanatics . Most left the old SFC alone with his field jacket. Hahaha
I got an old jacket similar to that, have to check the label for mode to see if its actually the same or not. Only issues with it are: 1-a couple rips in the inner fabric that wouldn't take much to fix, and 2 it doesn't fit me anymore (I've had it since not long outta high school lol). Got the liner for it too. I used to pack just the liner on backpacking trips to wear under a light rain coat just for once we got to the top peaks for sunrise and were exposed to wind and cold to give a bit of warmth. Wish they both still fit, I haven't brought myself to get rid of them though since they're great bits of kit.
It can also handle 2 of those liners as well, extra warm
Just picked one up at a Goodwill for $10 😮 I couldn’t believe it was there. It was practically brand new in unused condition.
I joined the army in 1984 and still have 3 of those m65 coats . I would add 2 or 3 liners for cold weather and I'd be good to go. I love that m65 field jacket.
Came across an "new/unused" OD green one at an estate sale recently. No liner, but couldnt pass it up for $8.
80s almost new and gave it to my nephew because I outgrew it. Just like my OD Green one I was issued in the 70s. The only rain gear we ever received was the poncho
Outstanding jacket! You cant beat an M65. Cockpit USA still produces an American made M65 jacket of the highest quality, but its $495 bucks.
Was issued my field jacket [just like yours] by the US Army in 1987 or so...
Just tried it on yesterday, to make sure everything is still good to go for another winter-- and it is...
It's an awesome piece of gear that's better quality than the new kit they're issuing, and the cammo is even still effective
I have one it was my fathers from his time in the Air Force in the 80s has the unit name and rank patches still on it and it fits me perfect!
The best thing you can do with these jackets is buy some cheep canning wax from the grocery store. Rub one of the wax bars all over the outside of the jacket. It will leave a white mess all over it. Then, use a hairdryer to heat the jacket up. You will be able to see the wax melt into the fabric. The rain will bead off of it for a long time as long as you don't dry it on high heat.
cool
I still have my OD Green issue M65 along with a Tiger Stripe and 2 like you are modeling. I forgot I even have my Fishtail Parka with hood ,and all of them have liners. I can't wear them out.
I still have the old field jackets from the early 90's, both with liners. Then I have the old extreme cold weather jacket with rabbit fur lined hood for those -20 temps along with the old field pants with liner. Then I have the 2nd generation of gortex jacket. I wear the old field jackets more, due to less noise when hunting.