I am 63 and I have wore these jackets since I was 16, and still wear them. I have several, and I also have 2 M51 jackets, which was given to me by my sgt, one is still new in the bag. I wear one all the time. The M65 is very warm. I also had one made by a tailor, in a very nice material, and one out of duck canvas. And that is brilliant! Plastic zippers are for freezing conditions. I like all the green and camo colour. But my tailored made are tan and stone coloured beige.!
Just picked one up NOS and I love it being 6,7 had to get a large long and for the life of me i can’t find a liner but a great field coat for goin out in the woods
About sizing: I am 183 cm, 77 kg (6 ft, 170 lbs) and own two old M65 of the 70s. One in M regular which is very roomy and is used for winter with a pullover and lining. Perfect. And one in S regular without lining which is perfect with a shirt or a thinner pullover. Great jacket and thank you that you left so many behind here in Germany.
@@derekdoeschannel Had my first burger at an Army base age 10 at a "Deutsch-Amerikanisches Volksfest" and you got me as an ally for life. A $1 investment for the US. The jackets came a bit later. Now a german-American family...
@@derekdoeschannel I'm 190cm 75kg and i got one M regular too but i find it too large but its cool for the winter especially because i got that liner too and its super warm, is there much difference for the Small regular? And are the sleeves the same size of the Medium version? It's just because I'm tall and I'm worried about the sleeves being too short
Fun fact about the switch to plastic zippers - they did that to make them easier to open and close when it's freezing out. If you wear the metal zippers (mine was brass) out in the cold for extended periods, meltwater that gets past the flap from the outside, and condensed perspiration on the inside, will combine to lock you in to the jacket... you will struggle to move that zipper through the ice that forms between the zipper teeth. The plastic ones (with the bigger teeth) will shed the ice after one or two firm tugs. It's the cheapest and second-best winter jacket I have. If you double-up on the liners you will be super toasty. They're really easy to find, too. The new ones from Alpha Industries are probably the best-made (good attention to the snaps, which tend to fall off here and there on the older surplus ones.) Still have all three of mine, still wear 'em. They're great for hunting or hiking, keeping in the trunk of the car if you get caught in an unexpected squall. (Gotta dry 'em out well if they get wet, though.) The liners keep you warm and pull moisture away when you get sweaty - big wool sweater will do the same - and you'll never feel the wet shell. Only better winter coat I have is my old N-3B - but that's more a parka than a coat - and it will happily handle sub-zero whiteouts and ice storms without issue. Nice coats here. Thanks for doing the video. More people need to know about these - they're fashionable (like deck coats) these days, but ultimately they're perfectly utilitarian. Cheers!
That's complete nonsense on freezing zippers . I base that on two winters in Korea and 5 years in Alaska in the Army wearing field jackets and fishtail parkas. Brass zippers work just fine. The weather flap is insurance against a broken zipper regardless what it's made of.
I didn't know they started putting plastic YKK zippers on the M65. I know the metal Ideal zippers were prone to getting stuck, especially on the N3B parkas.
I first bought an olive green M65 in 1986 in Belfast, Ireland . That was my growing up coat for those years. I still have it. Now unwearable. But I have three others. An 80's OG. A 90's woodland and a late 90's desert. The forth I've only bought off ebay and it is a mint OG from 1970 with the Aluminim zippers and cut bellows pockets. Bought it for £118. It arrived today. I couldn't belive the great shape it's in. Doesn't look like it's been worn or washed much at all. After 40 years I still love the M65. Unlike the first one I owned as a mad young teenager. The best these are for now is out for great winter walks with my dog.
In high school 1970 -1974 i had a M51 jacket. In active duty i got two M65 jackets in olive drab. They were excess property and i dyed them one black and the other russet brown. This was so they could be used by opfor during exercises. They chose not to use them so i got to keep them. This year i got a khaki one from military 1st made by mil-tec and love it.
Thank you for the video. I live in Russia (Moscow)... I have been wearing M-65 contract jackets for 20 years already... Very stylish, beautiful and durable jackets... Now I have about 10 of them. Olive, black, ACU pixel, woodland and desert. I love these jackets...)))...еще раз спасибо за видео...
@@tuskly3541 Ну,... вкратце не ответишь... Наличие куртки в продажах, ценник на неё и её состояние - сильно зависят от Вашего размера и от того какую куртку Вы хотите в плане расцветки... Чем крупнее Вы в габаритах - тем меньше выбор... Куртки в оливе обойдутся Вам дороже всего ибо это популярная классика ,которая снята с контрактного производства более 30 лет назад, в вудланде и песочном камуфляже гораздо проще, в камуфле UCP - может быть сложнее чем с оливой ибо эти куртки последних годов выпуска контрактных курток m-65 (закончили их отшивать для армии где-то в 2005) и в UCP шили их короткий промежуток времени, черную контрактную вообще не найдете (шили их в своё время для полиции и спецподразделений), но они и в США редки до невозможности (не говоря уж про Россию)... А так, где купить ?... Я на Авито приобрел штуки 3-4 и в магазинах (в магазинах правда до начала СВО).. Предложений более менее хватает и сейчас... Новую куртку в вудланде и песке сейчас можно приобрести в диапазоне 10-15К рублей... Олива гораздо дороже 20-50К (ценник будет сильно гулять в зависимости от состояния куртки и годов её выпуска - ведь это уже почти историческая форма и ранним пошивам более 50-ти лет... В общем - юзайте Авито и вообще русскоязычный сегмент интернета ... Для ознакомления кину Вам ссылку на канал парня из Москвы хорошо погрязшего в теме М-65 (он кстати ими ещё и торгует с приличным выбором оливковых курток в отменном состоянии,в описании канала есть ссылка на его магазин в ВК) www.youtube.com/@m-65fieldjackets (надеюсь уважаемый Derek Does не будет возражать) ...Фуххх,.. надеюсь хоть немного я Вам помог...) P.S. Только не забудьте, что американская система размеров одежды существенно отличается от европейской...)...А так, не важно когда пошита контрактная куртка и каким производителем - в размерах она не гуляет, шили все производители по стандартным лекалам
I wore my dad's Army M51 from Korean war era with his 1st division patch all through HS and college (70s-80s) until it was about to fall apart. Can't do that now with patches and stuff but just bought 2 more woodlands at age 59 and they will be in both my trucks with me now👍👍 Good video!
I still have mine issued to me back in 75. I was too fat to fit into it for years, but I've dropped a few pounds and have an old friend back. Semper Fi.
I have two. Being a child of the '60s, I wanted an OD one, but had to settle for one made by Rothco that I wear for a work coat, and a USGI woodland that is a backup. The built-in hood also has a skirt that covers the collar zip to keep cold, wet stuff from getting inside the jacket (think twice before cutting it off!). New coats did have a water-repellent treatment called Quarpel, which I presume was replenished when washed by military facilities. ALSO, companion trousers were developed. Made of the same material as the coat, they also came with the polyester liners. I'd like to find a trouser in OD, to go with my work coat. The M65 was also included in the ECWCS clothing system, but the Gore-Tex parka and fleece combo became so popular that the M65 was dropped. They are rare, but a heavy, fur edged button on hood for extreme cold was also made.
Ive got one in woodland camo that I have had for over 35 years and it is still like new. I also still have the liner for it as well. I do have newer tech jackets that are warmer and much more waterproof but honestly just like the older muscle cars the newer stuff has no where near the looks or character as the old standbyes do. It is one jacket I will never part with even though I do not wear it as often anymore.
Part of the appeal of the m65 is the hunt to try and find one. I have spent waaay to many hours scanning the isles of 2nd hand clothing stores and Gumtree looking for deals on cheap m65s. Its getting harder but I still don't tire of the joy of finding one. I have a nice collection of the m65 field jacket and the m65 extreme cold fishtail...but I never stop looking.
Hi, ich bin auch Deutscher. Habe diese Jacke, auch mit Metallreissverschluss, seit 2006. Sehr gute, robuste Jacke. Lustig, dass Du Dir auch jetzt Videos über die M65 ansiehst! Viele Grüße!
This is a very interesting video. My first field jacket was when I was checking out the Market st Old Navy store in San Francisco. They had these $40 or maybe $60 military/field jackets. I bought the green one in large size and a black one. The black one had a dirty old box cutter in the pocket. Thinking old navy will always have them I returned the black one that had the sharp dirty object in the pocket. Wore the green one until it had holes. It was very good for my casual daily wear. Unfortunately they don’t have such jackets anymore.
I have 2 as of right now! got one in woodland camo and i’m not sure if it’s vintage or reproduction but it’s very nice. Got my second one a couple months ago and it’s an Original 1981 M65 by Alpha Industries. Shouts out to the local thrift on the 1981 M65 it was only 5 bucks
Thanks for sharing, great video. I’m a fan of the US Army field jacket, and I found this video very informative. In my personal collection are two M-43s, an M-50, an M-51 and two M-65s - all vintage and imported from the United States. One of the M-43s has a faded “Peace” symbol drawn on its left sleeve, but unfortunately the story behind it has gotten lost in time. Greetings from the Netherlands - Cor
Fantastic collection! I need to add the 50 and 51! I think the stories and history are great to have if you’re lucky enough to know them. Thanks for watching!
There was also a blackened brass zippers between 1971 and 1972, but i think only from two manufacturers, some manufacturers used brass allready in 1967, Nylon was used for the hood zipper as early as 1981, for the front zipper 86 to 91, 86 and 87 was brass or nylon
I just got one and hear this- in Vietnam! Found one in a thrift shop outside of Hanoi. I was wondering, how suitable is this as a final layer to wear during the winter? Around freezing temperatures. Thank you!
The US Military Versions have 4 colors: Olivegreen-107, M81 Woodland, 3 Color Desert Camouflage and Unisversal Camouflage Pattern, the US made also some in 6 color desert for the Saudis in 1990/1991 for their military, and during the Afghanistan war they made some in afghan Spec4ce digital woodland for the afghan military, all other colors are commerical, Delta Force used some modified black colored that were originally olive from the 70s and seals used some navy blue colored during vietnam that were also originally olive, there are also some experimental from vietnam era in mitchell leaf pattern these are very rare and duck hunter and beogam pattern versions, but the original USGI ones are usually OG-107, M81, TriColor Desert, UCP
Hi Derek I have a question ? I have just bought another vintage m65 jkt , it has the label but it has somewhat faded overtime , it has a brass zipper with general on it with a big G. Any idea what year please ? Terry
So-Sew Styles with nylon zipper in 1987 jacket I have also. Great jacket. Don't let the nylon zipper fool you. So-Sew was one of the original makers in 1967.
I am near Ft.Campbell,Ky and I was jacket hunting and the surplus stores do not have much of anything in woodland camo and sizes small and medium if they have anything at all,but in one store I was told digital is old and now it is called ASC I think.
Great video. I’ve owned an m65 since the late 80s. Mine is a 68 dated one with a grey inner. Not green as yours is. Also still has an aluminium zipper. Must’ve changed colours after 68 maybe.? I also cut the hood out at the time 😳 wish I hadn’t. Unfortunately it’s a little snug. So I brought one of those Austrian lookalikes….never been impressed with it. So after watching you’re video I found one on eBay 82 dated. Made by Golden mfg. So I shall look forward to getting that when I get back from this vacation.
M65's have been the go to jacket for me. I remember having one in fifth grade that my dad bought at the local swap meet, since my dad got rid of his after his time in the Air Force. It was in woodland. Then I outgrew it and I was able to find another one in olive drab at the thrift shop with the Seabees stamp on the pocket. Then I ended up selling it for some reason that I don't remember. So many years went on by and I was able to buy another M65, this time at the surplus shop. I traded in a bunch of surplus I had obtained overtime and in exchange for the jacket. It was a good deal, so I got it and with Autumn coming around soon, I'm more prepared than last year. I don't know what it is about these jackets for me, they're kind of like a security blanket, a sense of comfort and a part of my childhood. What I love most about this current M65 is that it was made the same year I was born, so it makes it more special to me. I have actually seen these with the Army Universal Camo Pattern with velcro on both sleeves to put the patches on them.
seriously thinking of purchasing one but confuse on measurement....i'm interested in Medium size and its armpit to armpit is 46" but chest is 37-39"...plenty of room on armpit to armpit but chest will be snug....so what is the suitable size i have to think off and avoid returns
I think you're reading two measurements. The Chest 37'39" is from the Army for the jacket to fit that size WITH additional clothing on, like a uniform etc. The 46" is the ACTUAL measurements taken of the jacket. If you are a 42-44 ish the Medium will fit great.
@@derekdoeschannel I was going to buy a new imitation but after seeing your video I found an original that should fit from 1977 in good shape on ebay...my original was from 1974 but close enough
@@parimalray8797 I really don't know any places in your area. Try doing a search for resale shops or perhaps just order one and have it mailed to you might be easier.
They went to the plastic zippers in the mid 80s. I have one made by alpha industries made in 1979 and two made by so sew-styles from 1987. The jacket from alpha has the big label but has brass zippers on it the so sew jacket has a ykk plastic zipper. I also have one in three color desert camo from 1989 and in woodland camo from 1991. I would say that the production date doesn't matter too much as my jacket looks like the alpha jacket you showed because they made them for the military from 1965 to the mid to late 2000s before replacing it. In my opinion the m65 made by alpha today is of inferior quality to the ones made for the military because the ones they sell now are made in China with polyester not solely nyco and they sell them for over 200 dollars. Great video, it was nice to see a review of this jacket since there aren't too many on youtube.
Thank you for that information. I only know a little bit about the older ones. And I agree, buy an original than a reproduction since there are some many available.
I’m trying to find out what OD it is, I believe it’s OD 3 but please tell me as mine has some rips that need to be sewn. It is the same as the first jacket you owned and showed. If you want to read the story of how I obtained it click more, if not, just tell me the OD. It’s a 1968 M-65, my papa didn’t really take care of it and my uncle stole it and made it even worse (ripping it, forcing my grandma to sew on more patches, sew in pockets, making it smell like cigarettes, etc.), my papa never knew I’d start collecting but when I told him he got it back after months of arguments (he argued for fun, he hadn’t worn it in four years), then after that he asked me how I liked his jacket and man I was mad at his audacity. (He didn’t do much with his life, lived in my grandparents house, took their cars, thought he was entitled to my grandparents dog, house, food, beer, soda, my grandma’s labor, etc. Also my grandparents own multiple homes and rent them out, nice passive income to pair with their retirement. Anyways I had my mom soak it with baking powder and whatever else is the washer, got the smell out, carefully carved out the patches, and after a few years the rips are beginning to bother me. Sorry for venting but I just wanted to tell the whole story how it was (and still is). My papa would’ve taken much better care of his stuff if he’d have known I wanted it but he lost most of it over the last 50 years. For my 10th Christmas present he gathered everything he had remaining and gave it to me, his ribbons, field jacket (he took it back to add in and gave it back), dog tags, draft paper, discharge paper, plaque he got when he left, buttons from his uniform, pictures, and a can opener.
Great story. Actually, I love a jacket with history and yours certainly has it. It's fought two battles in a way. But unfortunately I'm not an expert on OD colors. But try a search on yours with the year and manufacturer as there is probably a thread somewhere that goes over that?
@@derekdoeschannelI believe it’s OD 3 but not 100% sure, it’s a 1968 Army M-65, such bad care was taken care of it the tag where it has info is gone
I live in the Foothills Of The Great Smokey Mountains, in Tenn. I love my M65. I use the liner, but sometimes the liner is not enough. I have heard that some use two liners. Is that a thing? Too bad they did not make the liner out of Thinsulite. My LE issued jackets had that and they were warm as toast. I purchased a ECWCS (Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System) jacket (coat or what ever you want to call it) with the extra interior fleece liner, there is NOTHING extreme cold weather about it. It is like a heavy duty wind breaker with a sweat shirt for the liner. I give it two thumbs down. I have also heard some have the buttons for the M65 Liners installed in the ECWCS and use two liners (is that a thing)? I also find my large regular is a bit short, when it is real cold out. I want to get a large long, but I am scared the sleeves will be much too long.
I've never heard of doubling up, but why not. If you still have room to squeeze a liner in there, do it. I've not seen the ECWCS in person, but they don't look that great to me. Get the Large Long and just roll the cuff up to fit. Thanks for watching!
Looked better on my girl friend . . ITDID. Pockets too . Hood . Big brass zipper . .gave a friend Swiss field jacket . Dog walker pockets for every thing . Even water bowl collapses. He was marine recon . . Rotting teeth story . Best .
@@derekdoeschannel I bought mine off on eBay that's who stole it so the Amazon store took it and sold it to somebody else they don't show that stuff on Amazon
The M65 is a great utilitarian jacket that still holds up well today in my opinion. However, I still wish there were some affordable modern versions available that retain the same features (notably buttons for attachable liner + hood) and appearance, but just made with more modern materials since the jackets' shell being made of all cotton make them a poor choice for wet weather conditions, even if coated with a water repellent finish, and they're quite heavy for the amount of warmth they provide without the liner. Most modern interpretations of the M65s that I've seen while keeping the same appearance, forgo the ability to attach any liner or hood and they often slim down the jackets too much to be able to layer well underneath. They also lack bi-swing for extended range of motion which I really like in jackets. Currently, I own a Bronson M65 which is a repro of the first model of the M65s that lack epaulets. It's an incredibly faithful yet affordable repoduction jacket. Other repro jackets are way too expensive, look slightly different from the originals (often the breast pockets are made smaller), look/feel cheap, and/or lack some original features.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
I am 63 and I have wore these jackets since I was 16, and still wear them. I have several, and I also have 2 M51 jackets, which was given to me by my sgt, one is still new in the bag. I wear one all the time. The M65 is very warm. I also had one made by a tailor, in a very nice material, and one out of duck canvas. And that is brilliant! Plastic zippers are for freezing conditions. I like all the green and camo colour. But my tailored made are tan and stone coloured beige.!
sounds like you're quite the fan! the m51 still in the plastic is worth quite a bit today.
Have one in US woodland pattern M65, at age 18 it was brought for me at birthday present. I’m 40 now & still wearing it.
should last another 20 years! Great jackets.
Just picked one up NOS and I love it being 6,7 had to get a large long and for the life of me i can’t find a liner but a great field coat for goin out in the woods
@@ethanpresley9423 Liners in long are not available, a liner in size large will fit in your jacket.
I m using since 1995 😊
About sizing: I am 183 cm, 77 kg (6 ft, 170 lbs) and own two old M65 of the 70s. One in M regular which is very roomy and is used for winter with a pullover and lining. Perfect. And one in S regular without lining which is perfect with a shirt or a thinner pullover.
Great jacket and thank you that you left so many behind here in Germany.
Your sizing sounds just right! I’m glad you found all the jackets I left there… lol
@@derekdoeschannel Had my first burger at an Army base age 10 at a "Deutsch-Amerikanisches Volksfest" and you got me as an ally for life. A $1 investment for the US. The jackets came a bit later. Now a german-American family...
Austrian army m65 style gortex jackets are excellent
@@derekdoeschannel I'm 190cm 75kg and i got one M regular too but i find it too large but its cool for the winter especially because i got that liner too and its super warm, is there much difference for the Small regular? And are the sleeves the same size of the Medium version? It's just because I'm tall and I'm worried about the sleeves being too short
@@IamSpearow23 look for a Small Long then. It will have longer arms but be smaller in the chest and waist.
Fun fact about the switch to plastic zippers - they did that to make them easier to open and close when it's freezing out. If you wear the metal zippers (mine was brass) out in the cold for extended periods, meltwater that gets past the flap from the outside, and condensed perspiration on the inside, will combine to lock you in to the jacket... you will struggle to move that zipper through the ice that forms between the zipper teeth. The plastic ones (with the bigger teeth) will shed the ice after one or two firm tugs. It's the cheapest and second-best winter jacket I have. If you double-up on the liners you will be super toasty. They're really easy to find, too. The new ones from Alpha Industries are probably the best-made (good attention to the snaps, which tend to fall off here and there on the older surplus ones.) Still have all three of mine, still wear 'em. They're great for hunting or hiking, keeping in the trunk of the car if you get caught in an unexpected squall. (Gotta dry 'em out well if they get wet, though.) The liners keep you warm and pull moisture away when you get sweaty - big wool sweater will do the same - and you'll never feel the wet shell. Only better winter coat I have is my old N-3B - but that's more a parka than a coat - and it will happily handle sub-zero whiteouts and ice storms without issue. Nice coats here. Thanks for doing the video. More people need to know about these - they're fashionable (like deck coats) these days, but ultimately they're perfectly utilitarian. Cheers!
Thank you for the awesome info on everything!
That's complete nonsense on freezing zippers . I base that on two winters in Korea and 5 years in Alaska in the Army wearing field jackets and fishtail parkas. Brass zippers work just fine. The weather flap is insurance against a broken zipper regardless what it's made of.
The new ones from alpha are bad quality. I've read this into comments, complaining about the quality - and no more being "Made into the USA".
I didn't know they started putting plastic YKK zippers on the M65. I know the metal Ideal zippers were prone to getting stuck, especially on the N3B parkas.
I first bought an olive green M65 in 1986 in Belfast, Ireland . That was my growing up coat for those years. I still have it. Now unwearable. But I have three others. An 80's OG. A 90's woodland and a late 90's desert. The forth I've only bought off ebay and it is a mint OG from 1970 with the Aluminim zippers and cut bellows pockets. Bought it for £118. It arrived today. I couldn't belive the great shape it's in. Doesn't look like it's been worn or washed much at all. After 40 years I still love the M65. Unlike the first one I owned as a mad young teenager. The best these are for now is out for great winter walks with my dog.
Funny how a jacket can mean so much isn't it. I love them too.
In high school 1970 -1974 i had a M51 jacket. In active duty i got two M65 jackets in olive drab. They were excess property and i dyed them one black and the other russet brown. This was so they could be used by opfor during exercises. They chose not to use them so i got to keep them. This year i got a khaki one from military 1st made by mil-tec and love it.
Love to hear you're still wearing them after 50 years! Way to go!
Thank you for the video. I live in Russia (Moscow)... I have been wearing M-65 contract jackets for 20 years already... Very stylish, beautiful and durable jackets... Now I have about 10 of them. Olive, black, ACU pixel, woodland and desert. I love these jackets...)))...еще раз спасибо за видео...
I'm glad you liked it. 10 M-65's is a lot of M-65's, but you can never have too many!
Где сейчас в России, в Москве, можно приобрести контрактную М65?
@@tuskly3541 Ну,... вкратце не ответишь... Наличие куртки в продажах, ценник на неё и её состояние - сильно зависят от Вашего размера и от того какую куртку Вы хотите в плане расцветки... Чем крупнее Вы в габаритах - тем меньше выбор... Куртки в оливе обойдутся Вам дороже всего ибо это популярная классика ,которая снята с контрактного производства более 30 лет назад, в вудланде и песочном камуфляже гораздо проще, в камуфле UCP - может быть сложнее чем с оливой ибо эти куртки последних годов выпуска контрактных курток m-65 (закончили их отшивать для армии где-то в 2005) и в UCP шили их короткий промежуток времени, черную контрактную вообще не найдете (шили их в своё время для полиции и спецподразделений), но они и в США редки до невозможности (не говоря уж про Россию)...
А так, где купить ?... Я на Авито приобрел штуки 3-4 и в магазинах (в магазинах правда до начала СВО).. Предложений более менее хватает и сейчас... Новую куртку в вудланде и песке сейчас можно приобрести в диапазоне 10-15К рублей... Олива гораздо дороже 20-50К (ценник будет сильно гулять в зависимости от состояния куртки и годов её выпуска - ведь это уже почти историческая форма и ранним пошивам более 50-ти лет... В общем - юзайте Авито и вообще русскоязычный сегмент интернета ... Для ознакомления кину Вам ссылку на канал парня из Москвы хорошо погрязшего в теме М-65 (он кстати ими ещё и торгует с приличным выбором оливковых курток в отменном состоянии,в описании канала есть ссылка на его магазин в ВК) www.youtube.com/@m-65fieldjackets (надеюсь уважаемый Derek Does не будет возражать) ...Фуххх,.. надеюсь хоть немного я Вам помог...)
P.S. Только не забудьте, что американская система размеров одежды существенно отличается от европейской...)...А так, не важно когда пошита контрактная куртка и каким производителем - в размерах она не гуляет, шили все производители по стандартным лекалам
got my m65 when i was 16 and i still wear it 10 years later, always the warmest bloke around the campfire in it
Fantastic!
I wore my dad's Army M51 from Korean war era with his 1st division patch all through HS and college (70s-80s) until it was about to fall apart. Can't do that now with patches and stuff but just bought 2 more woodlands at age 59 and they will be in both my trucks with me now👍👍 Good video!
Thanks! Glad you're continuing the love!
I still have mine issued to me back in 75. I was too fat to fit into it for years, but I've dropped a few pounds and have an old friend back. Semper Fi.
Great story! I get your glad you kept it!
I have two. Being a child of the '60s, I wanted an OD one, but had to settle for one made by Rothco that I wear for a work coat, and a USGI woodland that is a backup. The built-in hood also has a skirt that covers the collar zip to keep cold, wet stuff from getting inside the jacket (think twice before cutting it off!). New coats did have a water-repellent treatment called Quarpel, which I presume was replenished when washed by military facilities.
ALSO, companion trousers were developed. Made of the same material as the coat, they also came with the polyester liners. I'd like to find a trouser in OD, to go with my work coat.
The M65 was also included in the ECWCS clothing system, but the Gore-Tex parka and fleece combo became so popular that the M65 was dropped.
They are rare, but a heavy, fur edged button on hood for extreme cold was also made.
Thanks! Great extra info. I didn't know the make a fur hood for them!
Ive got one in woodland camo that I have had for over 35 years and it is still like new.
I also still have the liner for it as well.
I do have newer tech jackets that are warmer and much more waterproof but honestly just like the older muscle cars the newer stuff has no where near the looks or character as the old standbyes do.
It is one jacket I will never part with even though I do not wear it as often anymore.
Fantastic! Never let it go.
Part of the appeal of the m65 is the hunt to try and find one. I have spent waaay to many hours scanning the isles of 2nd hand clothing stores and Gumtree looking for deals on cheap m65s. Its getting harder but I still don't tire of the joy of finding one. I have a nice collection of the m65 field jacket and the m65 extreme cold fishtail...but I never stop looking.
I know all about the hunt for these. I love it too.
It took me a day to find a ‘73 m65 medium regular 😁 waiting for it to come in
I have one from 66 and two woodland pattern from 85 and 86,but mine from 85 and 86 have brass zippers.I love the M65 jackets.Best regards from Germany
Danke! Great grouping you have of jackets too!
Hi, ich bin auch Deutscher. Habe diese Jacke, auch mit Metallreissverschluss, seit 2006. Sehr gute, robuste Jacke. Lustig, dass Du Dir auch jetzt Videos über die M65 ansiehst! Viele Grüße!
Ist Surplus und Brandit eine gute Ersatzoption für den vertraglichen M65? Я из России, поэтому переводил Гугл переводчик.
Hi, I'm from Germany. I have one M65 too. I bought it in 2006 here. Very good jacket. Greetings!
Hello! Great to have you here. I’m glad you were able to pick one up!
The M-65 was designed as a 'cold weather' shell jacket. Meaning snow below freeze shell. It will stay dry in that enviro
Thanks! Great info!
I always go with the liner. It really makes the jacket.
never bad to have it, just in case.
This is a very interesting video. My first field jacket was when I was checking out the Market st Old Navy store in San Francisco. They had these $40 or maybe $60 military/field jackets. I bought the green one in large size and a black one. The black one had a dirty old box cutter in the pocket. Thinking old navy will always have them I returned the black one that had the sharp dirty object in the pocket. Wore the green one until it had holes. It was very good for my casual daily wear. Unfortunately they don’t have such jackets anymore.
Thanks, I didn't know they used to carry old army stuff.
I bought a surplus one in the early 80s. That jacket lasted me for years. Oddly enough it was a great motorcycle jacket. It was Vietnam era.
They are a truly versatile jacket! You should get another one.
I have 2 from 1966 that were made without the epualets they are definitely a different shade of green from the newer ones too!
That style is the very rare ones! Hang on to those. I don't think I've had one like that before.
You still get the m65 with brass zipper on military surplus shops in UK
You should pick up some extras!
I have 2 as of right now! got one in woodland camo and i’m not sure if it’s vintage or reproduction but it’s very nice. Got my second one a couple months ago and it’s an Original 1981 M65 by Alpha Industries. Shouts out to the local thrift on the 1981 M65 it was only 5 bucks
Awesome pick up! Can't be $5! Enjoy them!
Thanks for sharing, great video. I’m a fan of the US Army field jacket, and I found this video very informative. In my personal collection are two M-43s, an M-50, an M-51 and two M-65s - all vintage and imported from the United States. One of the M-43s has a faded “Peace” symbol drawn on its left sleeve, but unfortunately the story behind it has gotten lost in time. Greetings from the Netherlands - Cor
Fantastic collection! I need to add the 50 and 51! I think the stories and history are great to have if you’re lucky enough to know them. Thanks for watching!
Cool, you've got a early M65 with chrome zipper, i like that optically more, but mine is the usual, massive brass zipper here.
Keep looking for one and you’ll find it. Just takes time. I like chrome more myself.
So do I. Well, atm i have 2 brandit (albeit no "real" M65) the Helikon and an Alpha Industries.@@derekdoeschannel
Still have mine issued 1971.
That’s the mark of a great jacket
There was also a blackened brass zippers between 1971 and 1972, but i think only from two manufacturers, some manufacturers used brass allready in 1967, Nylon was used for the hood zipper as early as 1981, for the front zipper 86 to 91, 86 and 87 was brass or nylon
Great info!
I just got one and hear this- in Vietnam! Found one in a thrift shop outside of Hanoi. I was wondering, how suitable is this as a final layer to wear during the winter? Around freezing temperatures. Thank you!
They are a winter jacket if you put the liner in it. It would be perfect for that.
The US Military Versions have 4 colors: Olivegreen-107, M81 Woodland, 3 Color Desert Camouflage and Unisversal Camouflage Pattern, the US made also some in 6 color desert for the Saudis in 1990/1991 for their military, and during the Afghanistan war they made some in afghan Spec4ce digital woodland for the afghan military, all other colors are commerical, Delta Force used some modified black colored that were originally olive from the 70s and seals used some navy blue colored during vietnam that were also originally olive, there are also some experimental from vietnam era in mitchell leaf pattern these are very rare and duck hunter and beogam pattern versions, but the original USGI ones are usually OG-107, M81, TriColor Desert, UCP
Fantastic info!
I have 2 rothco M65 field jackets and they're very tough and well made
rothco is a good brand for military stuff!
"Alu" or silver zipper is made by General on this early M65 field jacket from 1969.
Thanks
@@derekdoeschannel You're welcome! 👍 Regards from an M65( M51, too) genuine field jackets freak 😁
Hi Derek I have a question ? I have just bought another vintage m65 jkt , it has the label but it has somewhat faded overtime , it has a brass zipper with general on it with a big G. Any idea what year please ? Terry
Hi It sounds like it's probably from the late 70's to mid 80's.
Thanks Derek much appreciated 👍🏻
Golden mfg. should bring back the M-65 Jacket on the civil market!
I am 6ft tall and 215 pounds. What size do you think I should get? I appreciate your help
A large or x-large would work. It depends how loose you like it.
So-Sew Styles with nylon zipper in 1987 jacket I have also. Great jacket. Don't let the nylon zipper fool you. So-Sew was one of the original makers in 1967.
I recently thrifted a so-sew m65 made in 2000 for $30. These jackets are really made to last.
good advice.
What would be good for me I’m 6’4” 250lbs and where 34 pants
Which size jacket for someone 5'6" - 5'7"?
It depends more on your chest size, but a small or medium should work for you.
I am near Ft.Campbell,Ky and I was jacket hunting and the surplus stores do not have much of anything in woodland camo and sizes small and medium if they have anything at all,but in one store I was told digital is old and now it is called ASC I think.
It can be a tough hunt, but worth it in if you find one. I didn't know about the new name. I've seen a few of those but never picked them up.
@@derekdoeschannel The digital would give me headache just for looking at them.
Great video. I’ve owned an m65 since the late 80s. Mine is a 68 dated one with a grey inner. Not green as yours is. Also still has an aluminium zipper.
Must’ve changed colours after 68 maybe.? I also cut the hood out at the time 😳 wish I hadn’t.
Unfortunately it’s a little snug. So I brought one of those Austrian lookalikes….never been impressed with it. So after watching you’re video I found one on eBay 82 dated. Made by Golden mfg.
So I shall look forward to getting that when I get back from this vacation.
Thanks! Fantastic on picking up another one! Nothing like the original.
@@derekdoeschannel Thanks. They’re getting hard to come by here in the uk.
finally it`ll get colder and we can wear them again. Best jacket for their price.
100% agree. Slowly getting cooler.
M65's have been the go to jacket for me. I remember having one in fifth grade that my dad bought at the local swap meet, since my dad got rid of his after his time in the Air Force. It was in woodland. Then I outgrew it and I was able to find another one in olive drab at the thrift shop with the Seabees stamp on the pocket. Then I ended up selling it for some reason that I don't remember. So many years went on by and I was able to buy another M65, this time at the surplus shop. I traded in a bunch of surplus I had obtained overtime and in exchange for the jacket. It was a good deal, so I got it and with Autumn coming around soon, I'm more prepared than last year. I don't know what it is about these jackets for me, they're kind of like a security blanket, a sense of comfort and a part of my childhood. What I love most about this current M65 is that it was made the same year I was born, so it makes it more special to me.
I have actually seen these with the Army Universal Camo Pattern with velcro on both sleeves to put the patches on them.
M65's are the one to own! Great history.
seriously thinking of purchasing one but confuse on measurement....i'm interested in Medium size and its armpit to armpit is 46" but chest is 37-39"...plenty of room on armpit to armpit but chest will be snug....so what is the suitable size i have to think off and avoid returns
I think you're reading two measurements. The Chest 37'39" is from the Army for the jacket to fit that size WITH additional clothing on, like a uniform etc. The 46" is the ACTUAL measurements taken of the jacket. If you are a 42-44 ish the Medium will fit great.
Got me a green made in 74 with a brass zipper and a woodland made in 83 with a brass zipper as well so the change to plastic has to be after 83
this helps to narrow down the plastic zipper. Somewhere between 84-86
There was a bit of crossover..depended on who the manufacturer was as there was more than one çompany that had contract's.
Is the fabric soft and thin or fairly thick and stiff like canvas?
It's kind of like softer canvas. It's not thin but easy to move in, so it's not like heavy canvas.
enjoyed the video, my original (Navy Seabees) no longer fits, but I didn't know there was a date code...good info
Thanks! You should find another that’s your size and enjoy wearing it.
@@derekdoeschannel I was going to buy a new imitation but after seeing your video I found an original that should fit from 1977 in good shape on ebay...my original was from 1974 but close enough
Excellent video. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good stuff - thanks for sharing. I learned a lot.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Interesting video. Really enjoyed it.
Thank you!
If some robber dude told me "gimme your money or your M-65" I'd kick his arse, because he under-estimated an M-65 wearing type of guy.
I am needed one field m65 jacket olive green XXL size. How I can get the same & the price of the same?
Hi. Check Ebay and other sites that sell them. Also go to your local thrift stores. You may not need an XXL as they do run big.
@@derekdoeschannel please know me the retail store in India, West Bengal, where from I may purchase. Also know me the price of the same.
@@parimalray8797 I really don't know any places in your area. Try doing a search for resale shops or perhaps just order one and have it mailed to you might be easier.
Where i will get this n wt price, pl
I have a few on my website www.derekdoes.com
The Sizes on the military ones are: chest X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large and Length X-Short, Short, Regular, Long, X-Long
Great info!
They went to the plastic zippers in the mid 80s. I have one made by alpha industries made in 1979 and two made by so sew-styles from 1987. The jacket from alpha has the big label but has brass zippers on it the so sew jacket has a ykk plastic zipper. I also have one in three color desert camo from 1989 and in woodland camo from 1991. I would say that the production date doesn't matter too much as my jacket looks like the alpha jacket you showed because they made them for the military from 1965 to the mid to late 2000s before replacing it. In my opinion the m65 made by alpha today is of inferior quality to the ones made for the military because the ones they sell now are made in China with polyester not solely nyco and they sell them for over 200 dollars. Great video, it was nice to see a review of this jacket since there aren't too many on youtube.
Thank you for that information. I only know a little bit about the older ones. And I agree, buy an original than a reproduction since there are some many available.
I have Woodland Camo version, and OG-107. I prefer olive drab just for usual walk around town. The camo is a little much for town.
I agree, it feels a bit much around town.
what is your jacket colour ? olive green?
Yes Olive Drab
@@derekdoeschannel ı live in Turkey. I will offer. Could your jacket be greener?
Where can I find the same jacket as you?
@@ozgurgunbey4787 HI, Try watching ebay or thrifting. It's about the only way to find one that I know of.
Austrian army style m65 gortex are excellent
Thanks! I'll look for one.
Would you be able to do a OG-107, and possibly the P64? Your content is good. 👍
Thanks If I have them or find them I will!
Great video thank you , I’ve just bought 1950s us m65 great patina & love it 😊
Thanks! Fantastic on the early M65! Great find.
Where do I get one 🫡? Any advise ?
Depending where you live you can try ebay and your local thrift stores.
❤❤❤
Thanks!
I’m trying to find out what OD it is, I believe it’s OD 3 but please tell me as mine has some rips that need to be sewn. It is the same as the first jacket you owned and showed.
If you want to read the story of how I obtained it click more, if not, just tell me the OD.
It’s a 1968 M-65, my papa didn’t really take care of it and my uncle stole it and made it even worse (ripping it, forcing my grandma to sew on more patches, sew in pockets, making it smell like cigarettes, etc.), my papa never knew I’d start collecting but when I told him he got it back after months of arguments (he argued for fun, he hadn’t worn it in four years), then after that he asked me how I liked his jacket and man I was mad at his audacity. (He didn’t do much with his life, lived in my grandparents house, took their cars, thought he was entitled to my grandparents dog, house, food, beer, soda, my grandma’s labor, etc. Also my grandparents own multiple homes and rent them out, nice passive income to pair with their retirement. Anyways I had my mom soak it with baking powder and whatever else is the washer, got the smell out, carefully carved out the patches, and after a few years the rips are beginning to bother me.
Sorry for venting but I just wanted to tell the whole story how it was (and still is).
My papa would’ve taken much better care of his stuff if he’d have known I wanted it but he lost most of it over the last 50 years. For my 10th Christmas present he gathered everything he had remaining and gave it to me, his ribbons, field jacket (he took it back to add in and gave it back), dog tags, draft paper, discharge paper, plaque he got when he left, buttons from his uniform, pictures, and a can opener.
Great story. Actually, I love a jacket with history and yours certainly has it. It's fought two battles in a way. But unfortunately I'm not an expert on OD colors. But try a search on yours with the year and manufacturer as there is probably a thread somewhere that goes over that?
@@derekdoeschannelI believe it’s OD 3 but not 100% sure, it’s a 1968 Army M-65, such bad care was taken care of it the tag where it has info is gone
I live in the Foothills Of The Great Smokey Mountains, in Tenn. I love my M65. I use the liner, but sometimes the liner is not enough. I have heard that some use two liners. Is that a thing? Too bad they did not make the liner out of Thinsulite. My LE issued jackets had that and they were warm as toast. I purchased a ECWCS (Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System) jacket (coat or what ever you want to call it) with the extra interior fleece liner, there is NOTHING extreme cold weather about it. It is like a heavy duty wind breaker with a sweat shirt for the liner. I give it two thumbs down. I have also heard some have the buttons for the M65 Liners installed in the ECWCS and use two liners (is that a thing)? I also find my large regular is a bit short, when it is real cold out. I want to get a large long, but I am scared the sleeves will be much too long.
I've never heard of doubling up, but why not. If you still have room to squeeze a liner in there, do it. I've not seen the ECWCS in person, but they don't look that great to me. Get the Large Long and just roll the cuff up to fit. Thanks for watching!
Army surplus stuff getting expensive in Scotland same price as camping shops like go out door's
Get it while you can as it seems good surplus is drying up everywhere
The hood is "rain hood" and you should waterproof it prior to use. If you are REAL old-school, use wax.
Great advice.
my jacket was a Viet Nam rea issue was a "N 1"...
Great info on that. They must have had a surplus left over and needed to use them up.
Looked better on my girl friend . . ITDID. Pockets too . Hood . Big brass zipper . .gave a friend Swiss field jacket . Dog walker pockets for every thing . Even water bowl collapses. He was marine recon . . Rotting teeth story . Best .
They look good on everyone.
The m65 I bought from eBay was stolen by they don't want to admit that they so now I get to go without an m65 jacket
That's terrible. The post office stole it?
No the post office did not steal it whatsoever eBay or Facebook selling to Amazon
@@stevenladrig9592 totally reach out to Amazon then. If you bought it through them they should take care of you.
@@derekdoeschannel I bought mine off on eBay that's who stole it so the Amazon store took it and sold it to somebody else they don't show that stuff on Amazon
The M65 is a great utilitarian jacket that still holds up well today in my opinion. However, I still wish there were some affordable modern versions available that retain the same features (notably buttons for attachable liner + hood) and appearance, but just made with more modern materials since the jackets' shell being made of all cotton make them a poor choice for wet weather conditions, even if coated with a water repellent finish, and they're quite heavy for the amount of warmth they provide without the liner.
Most modern interpretations of the M65s that I've seen while keeping the same appearance, forgo the ability to attach any liner or hood and they often slim down the jackets too much to be able to layer well underneath. They also lack bi-swing for extended range of motion which I really like in jackets. Currently, I own a Bronson M65 which is a repro of the first model of the M65s that lack epaulets. It's an incredibly faithful yet affordable repoduction jacket. Other repro jackets are way too expensive, look slightly different from the originals (often the breast pockets are made smaller), look/feel cheap, and/or lack some original features.
Maybe there is one like you'd want out there from a small manufacturer?
M65 cotton jacket prices 😊
I don't sell them, but plan on 50-200 for an original one.
-YYK- YKK* 😃🤐
mint c.....
thanks!
Medium short.. But for me asian guy.. Its look big.. Im thin guys.. 73 kg height 1.78
I'm around 1.56 height and 70 kg and the Medium Regular fits me great. But I do have wide shoulders and longer arms.
USN
Yes all divisions had their own.
They are difficult to find in old fat bastard size.
Try the repro companies. They make them in large sizes.
U really need to write a script before your vids, youre all over the place.
Thanks, I kind of just show you what I have. If I get more subscribers I'll make a bigger production but for now it's just me.