The critically acclaimed 2020 Tom Hanks film "GREYHOUND" depicts warfare in the North Atlantic against German U-Boats in World War II.  Tom Hanks is a very dedicated actor who holds great personal admiration and respect for the WWII veterans, and as such he is very driven to achieve high levels of authenticity.  The production company for "GREYHOUND" hired our founder as a consultant because they were interested in the epitome of historical accuracy, and they purchased our Buzz Rickson's U. S. Navy items because these items are world renowned as the last word in quality and authenticity.  If you see "GREYHOUND," our founder is credited on screen as a consultant and you will see nearly every minute of the film depicting the primary cast, including Tom Hanks, wearing Buzz Rickson's USN winter Deck Jackets, Pea Coats, and work shirts that were supplied in quantity.

The U. S. Navy's Zippered Deck Jacket from 1941 remains a classic.  It was the first of the jacket styles adopted by the USN that would become iconic during WWII.  In 1942, this style, along with the later hook-front and blue N-1 jackets, received a "U. S. NAVY" stencil in silver-gray lettering across the upper back, but the early-production jackets had no such stencil and this Buzz Rickson's version of an early 1942 model is 100% authentic in not having the stencil.  All of these Buzz Rickson deck jackets utilize the same period-correct, heavyweight, corded-cotton fabric found on the heavyweight N-1 jacket, but blue was the only color the zippered style was originally made in; in every way, this is a jacket style that is faithful to the original design and materials utilized.

Buzz Rickson’s philosophy is always to reproduce an item as authentically as humanly possible, which means utilizing the original machinery of the era and making the item so it doesn’t just look the part, but producing the item so it can actually function in the same way the original item was intended, thus Buzz Rickson’s is never engaged in making costumes; they are engaged in recreating rugged, functional history!  A cellulose plastic inner liner is sandwiched between the corded-cotton outer fabric and the blanket-wool lining to help keep cold winds from penetrating to the wearer's body, and heavy, military bar tacks are sewn at every key stress point specified and found on the original deck jackets, thus pocket corners and storm flap are constructed to function and endure in the same adverse, challenging conditions of combat that the jackets produced back in 1942 so did.

Please take note of all of these historically accurate features found on this Buzz Rickson’s masterpiece reproduction of the Zippered Deck Jacket: 

• Exact copy of original USN contract label design woven on vintage shuttle looms

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavyweight, corded-cotton outer shell to precisely match USN specs. and correctly dyed in navy blue 

• Cotton-thread construction

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, blanket-wool lining to precisely match 1940’s USN specs and dyed navy blue

• Two external “D-style” hand-warmer patch pockets lined with the correct cotton broadcloth

• Precise copy of a 1942 nickel-plated Talon zipper on correct, all-cotton HBT tape, not incorrect poly-cotton

• Waterproof, windproof celluloid plastic inner liner sandwiched between warm wool inside lining and hard-wearing

• Heavyweight, corded-cotton exterior, exactly as per the original design

• Sewn bar tacks on all major stress points as per the original specs., including pocket corners and placket front

• Large wind flap protector located behind zipper to keep cold air gusts out

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, two-ply 100% worsted-wool knit cuffs, collar and waist band

• Eyelet vents in armpits

Sizes available: 36-44 Regular in even-numbered sizes.  The cut is generous, thus enabling us to comfortably fit chest measures up to 46" or even 48" with size 44. Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit. 

Buzz Rickson’s goods are imported from Japan

The critically acclaimed 2020 Tom Hanks film "GREYHOUND" depicts warfare in the North Atlantic against German U-Boats in World War II.  Tom Hanks is a very dedicated actor who holds great personal admiration and respect for the WWII veterans, and as such he is very driven to achieve high levels of authenticity.  The production company for "GREYHOUND" hired our founder as a consultant because they were interested in the epitome of historical accuracy, and they purchased our Buzz Rickson's U. S. Navy items because these items are world renowned as the last word in quality and authenticity.  If you see "GREYHOUND," our founder is credited on screen as a consultant and you will see nearly every minute of the film depicting the primary cast, including Tom Hanks, wearing Buzz Rickson's USN winter Deck Jackets, Pea Coats, and work shirts that were supplied in quantity.

This is an exclusive item made only for us! 

The U. S. Navy developed and used many different styles of cold-weather gear and clothing during the 1940's.  A sailor’s duties are very often performed in the most challenging and harsh weather conditions while at sea, thus clothing needed to be durable, warm and functional.  Winter jackets, commonly referred to as “Deck Jackets,” became the most cherished clothing articles of sailors during WWII and among collectors today.  Most of the deck jackets used in WWII evolved from a blue zip-front design that was very similar in appearance to the U. S. Army’s Winter Combat Jacket (Tanker Jacket).  By late 1943, the second version of this Deck Jacket design was being phased out of production and an entirely new design was being brought into use.

This all-new jacket took into account the lessons learned from two hard years of warfare at sea.  Though still manufactured with the same dark blue heavy, corded-cotton outer shell as on earlier examples, alpaca fur was now used as the lining material and the torso length grew longer for greater protection from the elements.  The knit collar was replaced with an alpaca fur collar, and also gone were the knit waist bands, exposed knit cuffs and patch pockets of the old jackets, all of which tended to snag on various objects or parts of a ship and cause tearing.  A new cuff design incorporated the knit cuff hidden up inside the sleeve, thus keeping the knit from snagging while still keeping out the cold wind, and the frontal jacket closure was now facilitated by a zipper as well as buttons.  A drawstring at the jacket’s bottom edges kept the wind out more effectively than the old knit band, all the while eliminating the snagging problem associated with knit bands, and gusseted armpit areas with eyelet vents provided greater freedom of movement and rapid drying of built-up perspiration.  This new design was produced in very small numbers and but for a brief period before it was quickly superseded by a second version manufactured in a light olive drab color (now commonly called khaki) of the same heavy corded fabric.

Buzz Rickson’s took their ever-popular, adroitly re-created N-1 Blue Deck Jacket and introduced it in an even-heavier version. The lining color in the vintage jackets can be found in both gray or brown, so this heavier version has a contrasting brown-colored lining to further distinguish it from the lighter-weight standard version, which really sets off the overall look.

We, as Buzz Rickson’s N. American agent, requested to have made exclusively for us, beginning in the fall of 2014, this same heavy-weight jacket Buzz Rickson’s is famous for, but without the “U. S. NAVY ” stencil in silver-gray on jacket’s back; other than the deletion of the stencil, this is the same jacket type issued to WWII sailors.

The N-1-style Deck Jacket is an all-American classic that looks as great today as it did in 1944, and it functions with many different clothing applications - surely this will fast become a favorite item in your wardrobe.  Please note these authentic features:

• Exact copy of original USN contract label design printed on cotton fabric

• Exact copy of the original DEMOTEX-ED moth-proofing labels often found on the alpaca linings of vintage jackets have been reproduced using vintage shuttle looms

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavy, corded-cotton outer shell (this is heavier and even more durable than the outer shell on our standard N-1) to precisely match USN specs. and dyed dark blue

• Cotton-thread construction

• Custom manufacturing of the correct double-faced, brown-hued alpaca fur-and-wool lining to precisely match 1940s USN specs, which is even heavier than the lining of our standard N-1. We cannot say too much about the use of the original, double-faced alpaca, which is what provides the warmth associated with the vintage N-1 Jackets and requires vintage machinery found in Japan; at best, single-faced alpaca is present on cheaper look-alike costume-grade N-1 Jackets and Buzz Rickson's does not make costumes.

• Two external slash pockets

• A meticulous copy of a 1943 zipper in nickel plate has been custom made at extreme expense, precisely matching vintage examples, including all-cotton zipper tape that is folded and glued at the base with no plastic or heat sealing

• Button-front wind flap protector located in front of zipper closure

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, two-ply, worsted wool-knit cuffs in navy blue hidden up inside the sleeves to protect from wear

• Gusseted armpit construction with steel grommet vents

• Drawstring cords at jacket bottom to seal out the wind

• Throat latch that, when fastened, will help thwart chilling winds from entering the jacket neck area

Even-numbered sizes 36-44.   Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Imported from Japan

The critically acclaimed 2020 Tom Hanks film "GREYHOUND" depicts warfare in the North Atlantic against German U-Boats in World War II.  Tom Hanks is a very dedicated actor who holds great personal admiration and respect for the WWII veterans, and as such he is very driven to achieve high levels of authenticity.  The production company for "GREYHOUND" hired our founder as a consultant because they were interested in the epitome of historical accuracy, and they purchased our Buzz Rickson's U. S. Navy items because these items are world renowned as the last word in quality and authenticity.  If you see "GREYHOUND," our founder is credited on screen as a consultant and you will see nearly every minute of the film depicting the primary cast wearing Buzz Rickson's USN winter Deck Jackets, Pea Coats, and work shirts that were supplied in quantity; more specifically, however, Tom Hanks is outfitted wearing this exact same Buzz Rickson's USN CPO shirt throughout nearly the entire film.

This all-time classic shirt jacket has become universally known as a “CPO Shirt," though the actual application of this garment was not limited to U. S. Navy Chief Petty Officers.  The shirt was developed for cold-weather work duty in the 1930's and, in practice, could be worn even by officers.  The style evolved over the years, eventually having two breast pockets both with open tops and with pocket flaps, but the 1st version is immediately identifiable by the single breast pocket with scalloped pocket flap. Scores of these shirts were produced to meet the needs of the U. S. Navy during WWII.  The clean, simple, practical  design of the shirt, particularly this one-pocket version, and its hard-wearing, cozy, wool-flannel construction met with a very favorable reception by the sailors to whom it was issued.  After WWII, the “CPO Shirts,” as they came to be called, were widely worn among the civilian population of the USA due to the vast number of discharged sailors who continued to wear their issue shirts and the availability of issue garments sold via Army/Navy surplus stores. 

The popularity of this “CPO Shirt” design grew increasingly in the post-WWII decades, being offered for sale in the 1960's and 1970's in a variety of colors and even in plaid prints, sold by such big-name American retailers as Sears and Roebuck, J. C. Penney, and Montgomery Ward, though it was the later jacket version with two square-edged flap pockets these retailers marketed vs. the one-pocket 1st model. 

There has been a moderate resurgence in the last decade or so of some of the garments associated with the 1960's and 1970's and the “CPO Shirt” has been offered in various forms by today’s bigger names in the fashion industry, though the garments themselves pale in qualitative comparison to those from the 1930's – 1950's - except this Buzz Rickson’s masterpiece!

Once again, Buzz Rickson’s brand has resurrected a bygone treasure from the ground up, utilizing the vintage looms and know-how to craft fabrics not seen in 50 years or more, then deftly sewing the pieces together with vintage Union Special sewing machines to provide a finished product that comes as close to the vintage garment as possible.  What we end up with is a “CPO Shirt” that transcends fashion by light years and bolts straight to the heart of classic style through the very functionality of the original design that has been so deftly reproduced. 

The weight and quality of the wool, the fine details such as the twill-backed frontal closure, chain-stitched runoff with gusset on the shirttail, collar stand, and the simple clean lines of the 1st model with one scalloped-flap pocket all speak loudly about the production and design mindsets behind this gallant reproduction.  Perhaps the most special feature of this style is the use of boiled wool, which is then dried naturally in the sun outdoors to yield a soft, non-scratchy hand that feels like a vintage favorite worn by an old salt.  

This is top-quality vintage craftsmanship irreplaceable at any price – this is Buzz Rickson’s.  Please take note of these authentic features:  

• Exact copy of original U. S. Naval Clothing Factory contract label design printed on cotton

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavy-weight, wool-flannel on vintage looms, which is then boiled and dyed outdoors in sunlight so it's not scratchy and feels like an old salt's favorite shirt

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, all-cotton twill backing on frontal closure

• Cotton-thread construction

• Original-spec. one-pocket design with scalloped flap

• Custom manufacturing of the original-style urea buttons with fouled anchor

• Chain-stitched runoff with gusseted shirttail

• Collar stand with early, more pointed collar 

• Counter-rotated right cuff (this isn't an error - this is how a 1st-Model CPO shirt should be)

Even sizes 36-44 Regular.   Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.  

Buzz Rickson’s goods are imported from Japan  

The critically acclaimed 2020 Tom Hanks film "GREYHOUND" depicts warfare in the North Atlantic against German U-Boats in World War II.  Tom Hanks is a very dedicated actor who holds great personal admiration and respect for the WWII veterans, and as such he is very driven to achieve high levels of authenticity.  The production company for "GREYHOUND" hired our founder as a consultant because they were interested in the epitome of historical accuracy, and they purchased our Buzz Rickson's U. S. Navy items because these items are world renowned as the last word in quality and authenticity.  If you see "GREYHOUND," our founder is credited on screen as a consultant and you will see nearly every minute of the film depicting the primary cast, including Tom Hanks, wearing Buzz Rickson's USN winter Deck Jackets, Pea Coats, and work shirts that were supplied in quantity.

The U. S. Navy developed and used many different styles of cold-weather gear and clothing during the 1940s. A sailor’s duties are very often performed in the most challenging and harsh weather conditions while at sea, thus clothing needed to be durable, warm and functional. Winter jackets, commonly referred to as “Deck Jackets,” became the most cherished clothing articles of sailors during WWII and among collectors today. Most of the deck jackets used in WWII evolved from a blue zip-front design that was very similar in appearance to the U. S. Army’s Winter Combat Jacket (Tanker Jacket). By late 1943, the second version of this Deck Jacket design was being phased out of production and an entirely new design was being brought into use.

This all-new jacket of late 1943 took into account the lessons learned from two hard years of warfare at sea. Though still manufactured with the same dark blue heavy corded cotton outer shell as on earlier examples, alpaca fur was now used as the lining material and the torso length grew longer for greater protection from the elements. The knit collar was replaced with an alpaca fur collar and also gone were the knit waist bands, exposed knit cuffs and patch pockets of the old jackets, all of which tended to snag on various objects or parts of a ship and cause tearing. A new cuff design incorporated the knit cuff hidden up inside the sleeve, thus keeping the knit from snagging while still keeping out the cold wind, and the frontal jacket closure was now facilitated by a zipper as well as buttons. A drawstring at the jacket’s bottom edges kept the wind out more effectively than the old knit band all the while eliminating the snagging problem associated with the knit bands, and gusseted armpit areas with eyelet vents provided greater freedom of movement and rapid drying of built-up perspiration. This new style was produced in very small numbers and but for a very brief period before being superceded in 1944 by a second version manufactured in a light olive drab color of the same corded fabric. The newer 1944 style produced in light olive drab had some features deleted that were incorporated in its earlier blue sibling but now determined to be unnecessary, though it is the blue version of this deck jacket, now referred to by collectors as the Blue N-1 Jacket, that clearly saw more prolific action on D-Day and is the most scarce style today of the four major USN deck jacket styles of WWII.

The N-1-style Deck Jacket is an all-American classic that looks as great today as it did in 1943, and it functions with many different clothing applications - surely this will fast become a favorite item in your wardrobe. Scorn the cookie-cutter look of “mall” jackets and grab a piece of 20th century American history that combines style with durability and utility.

This Buzz Rickson’s USN blue N-1-style Deck Jacket copy superbly captures all of the nuances and features found on a vintage original example from 1943. Take note of these authentic features:

• Exact copy of original USN contract label design printed on cotton fabric

• Exact duplication of the original silver-grey stencil property mark “U. S. NAVY” applied across back between shoulders

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavy, corded-cotton outer shell to precisely match USN specs. and dyed navy blue

• Cotton thread construction

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, double-faced, grey-hued alpaca fur-and-wool lining to precisely match 1940s USN specs. We cannot say too much about the use of the original, double-faced alpaca, which is what provides the warmth associated with the vintage N-1 Jackets and requires vintage machinery found in Japan; at best, single-faced alpaca is present on cheaper look-alike costume-grade N-1 Jackets and Buzz Rickson's does not make costumes.

• Two external slash pockets

• Vintage-style 1943 nickel CONMATIC zipper

• Button-front wind flap protector located in front of zipper closure

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, two-ply, worsted wool-knit cuffs in navy blue, hidden up inside the sleeves to protect from wear

• Gusseted armpit construction with eyelet vents

• Drawstring cords at jacket bottom to seal out the wind

Even-numbered sizes:  34-44.   Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Buzz Rickson’s goods are imported from Japan

The U. S. Navy’s original Pea Coat featured black urea buttons displaying an anchor surrounded by 13 stars; the 13 stars were derived from the original 13 states when the United States became an independent nation and broke its ties to England in 1776.  The large-sized collar of the coat was designed to block strong ocean winds and the corduroy-lined side pockets helped thwart the numbing effect on hands from the biting winter seas.  By the 1930's, the coats were redesigned:  the extra lower pockets and longer length were gone, and the 13-star buttons were changed to a fouled-anchor design.

Clearly, it was WWII that catapulted the Pea Coat to iconic status as sailors home on leave or traveling to their next duty could be seen in every town, and then there was the war bond poster of the Five Sullivan boys; an inspiring image forever frozen in time with all five handsomely attired in their winter blues and Pea Coats.  After WWII, the Pea Coat became widely worn among the civilian population of the USA due to the vast number of discharged sailors who continued to wear their issue coats and the availability of issue coats sold via Army/Navy surplus stores.  The popularity of this coat design grew increasingly in the post-WWII decades and has remained an iconic staple in the wardrobe of any well-dressed man or woman to this day.  Pea Coats exist in many forms now, most of which are some sort of fashion mutation, and all pale in weight and quality of fabric and construction to the issue garments produced prior to the late 1950's – except this Buzz Rickson’s masterpiece!

Once again, Buzz Rickson’s brand has resurrected a bygone treasure from the ground up, utilizing the vintage looms and know-how to craft fabrics not typically seen today, then deftly sewing the pieces together with vintage Union Special sewing machines to provide a finished product that comes very close to the vintage garment.  What we end up with is a Pea Coat that transcends fashion by light years and bolts straight to the heart of classic style through the very functionality of the original design that has been so deftly reproduced.

You see, the glut of fashion Pea Coats found in catalogs and shopping malls the world over all have one big thing in common that separates them from a true Pea Coat of the Good Old Days:  fashion Pea Coats aren’t designed to do anything more than look like a Pea Coat!  Pick up any Pea Coat marketed today and feel the flimsy, sportcoat-grade poly-wool fabric, the knap of which pills into unsightly little balls with the first sign of hard use, condemning the coat to the trash within a few short seasons and never having kept anyone warm at latitudes further north than Miami. 

This Buzz Rickson’s Pea Coat is no light-weight fashionista statement, sweethearts; it’s made from 36-ounce melton wool and lined with heavy rayon, both of which minimize loss of body heat and will wear as ferociously as did the Pea Coats that won WWII.  This is top-quality vintage craftsmanship irreplaceable at any price – this is Buzz Rickson’s.  Please take note of these authentic features:

• Exact copy of original U. S. Naval Clothing Factory contract label design woven on rayon

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavy-weight, 36-ounce, melton-wool outer shell in navy blue and produced on vintage looms

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavy rayon lining with two interior pockets

• Cotton thread construction

• Two external hand-warmer pockets lined in the original-spec. heavy-weight corduroy

• Original-spec.10-button front featuring the pre-WWII urea buttons displaying an anchor surrounded by 13 stars

• Large wind-blocking collar with throat latch

Even-numbered sizes 34-46.   Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Buzz Rickson’s goods are imported from Japan.

The critically acclaimed 2020 Tom Hanks film "GREYHOUND" depicts warfare in the North Atlantic against German U-Boats in World War II.  Tom Hanks is a very dedicated actor who holds great personal admiration and respect for the WWII veterans, and as such he is very driven to achieve high levels of authenticity.  The production company for "GREYHOUND" hired our founder as a consultant because they were interested in the epitome of historical accuracy, and they purchased our Buzz Rickson's U. S. Navy items because these items are world renowned as the last word in quality and authenticity.  If you see "GREYHOUND," our founder is credited on screen as a consultant and you will see nearly every minute of the film depicting the primary cast wearing Buzz Rickson's USN winter Deck Jackets and work shirts that were supplied in quantity; more specifically, however, Tom Hanks is outfitted in the first combat scene wearing this exact same Hook-Front Deck Jacket.

The U. S. Navy's Hook-Front Deck Jacket from 1943 remains a classic.  Just as with Buzz Rickson's Heavyweight, Non-Stenciled N-1 Deck Jackets, this style has been meticulously and precisely copied from vintage examples in every way, with the exception of not printing the "U. S. NAVY" text on the jacket's back.  All of these Buzz Rickson deck jackets utilize the same period-correct, heavyweight, corded-cotton fabric found on the heavyweight N-1 jacket, but blue is the only color the hook-front style was originally made in.   In every other way, this is a jacket style that is faithful to the original design and materials utilized.

Buzz Rickson’s philosophy is always to reproduce an item as authentically as humanly possible, which means utilizing the original machinery of the era and making the item so it doesn’t just look the part, but producing the item so it can actually function in the same way the original item was intended, thus Buzz Rickson’s is never engaged in making costumes; they are engaged in recreating rugged, functional history!  A cellulose plastic inner liner is sandwiched between the corded-cotton outer fabric and the blanket-wool lining to help keep cold winds from penetrating to the wearer's body, and heavy, military bar tacks are sewn at every key stress point specified and found on the original deck jackets, thus pocket corners and storm flap are constructed to function and endure in the same adverse, challenging conditions of combat that the jackets produced back in 1943 so did.

Please take note of all of these historically accurate features found on this Buzz Rickson’s masterpiece reproduction of the 1943 Hook-Front Deck Jacket: 

• Exact copy of original USN contract label design woven on vintage shuttle looms

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavyweight, corded-cotton outer shell to precisely match USN specs. and correctly dyed in dark blue 

• Cotton-thread construction

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, blanket-wool lining to precisely match 1940’s USN specs and dyed dark blue

• Two external “D-style” hand-warmer patch pockets lined with the correct cotton broadcloth

• Magnificent copy of the USN 1943-spec. hinging, hook-style metal clasps in oxide finish

• Waterproof, windproof celluloid plastic inner liner sandwiched between warm wool inside lining and hard-wearing

• Corded shell exterior, exactly as per the original design

• Sewn bar tacks on all major stress points as per the original specs., including pocket corners and placket front

• Large wind flap protector located behind clasp closure to keep cold air gusts and water out

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, two-ply 100% worsted-wool knit cuffs, collar and waist band

• Eyelet vents in armpits

Sizes available: 36-44 Regular in even-numbered sizes.  The cut is generous, thus enabling us to comfortably fit chest measures up to 46" or even 48" with size 44. Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit. 

Buzz Rickson’s goods are imported from Japan

A sailor’s duties are very often performed in the most challenging and harsh weather conditions while at sea, thus clothing needed to be durable, warm and functional.  Winter jackets, commonly referred to as “Deck Jackets,” became the most cherished clothing articles of sailors and among collectors today.  Starting in late 1943 and continuing into the early 1960's, the iconic N-1 Deck Jacket design was the mainstay for intermediate use in the U. S. Navy, but beginning in the early 1960's and continuing well into the 1970's, the A-2 Deck Jacket took over.

The A-2 Deck Jacket remains a well-designed, functional, utilitarian garment possessing rugged good looks.  The A-2 Deck Jacket did away with the animal hair used in the lining of the N-1 design and incorporated a new nylon pile that was equally warm, yet lighter in weight and very soft and comfortable for those with skin sensitivities.  Other changes included a new exterior cotton fabric in dark-shade olive drab that was also lighter in weight, yet just as durable as the corded-cotton shell of the N-1 style, the addition of a single snap-down chest pocket, and belt adjusters at the hips to keep out chilling winds.  The hidden knit cuffs of the N-1 were retained, as this feature worked extremely well at both blocking wind from rushing up inside the sleeves and in protecting the vulnerable knit from snags and tears that were all but eliminated vs. jacket styles with exposed knit parts.

Buzz Rickson's, as usual, has spared no expense and again recreated a classic jacket style as if it had to pass U. S. Navy standardized testing, which includes custom manufacturing all component parts to the original specs. using now-outdated vintage machinery.  It is Buzz Rickson's attention to detail and historical purity that separates a true uniform item intended to function in adverse, challenging conditions from a costume possessing only basic characteristics of resemblance to the original item:  the U. S. military wears uniforms, while trick-or-treaters wear costumes.

Please note these authentic features found only on a Buzz Rickson's masterpiece and original-issue A-2 Deck Jackets of the USN:

• Exact copy of original USN contract label design printed on cotton fabric

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavyweight cotton outer shell (almost like canvas) to precisely match USN specs. and dyed dark-shade olive drab
• Cotton-thread construction
• Genuine Navy-spec. urea buttons, not cheap plastic
• Custom manufacturing of the correct, double-faced, nylon-boa lining for a perfect ratio of warmth to weight following USN specs.
• Two external slash pockets
• One snap-down chest pocket
• Reinforcing stitching on collar back with heavy interlining throughout collar

• A meticulous copy of a late 1950's Comar zipper in brass has been custom made at extreme expense, precisely matching vintage examples, including all-cotton zipper tape that is folded and glued at the base with no plastic or heat sealing; a leather Navy-spec. pull fob is attached for easy function while wearing gloves

• Button-front wind flap protector located in front of zipper closure

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, two-ply, worsted wool-knit cuffs in hidden up inside the sleeves to protect from wear

• Heavy-duty, all-cotton web adjusting belts with oxide-coated metal buckles at jacket hem sides to seal out the wind

Sizes Small - XXL.   Please do NOT attempt to guess at sizing; please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Imported from Japan

Buzz Rickson's brand is world renowned for producing truly standout copies of the famous G-1 Flying Jacket, but this new example elevates their reputation to levels so spectacular, we are left fully bereft of adequate words to describe it.

This offering is a meticulous copy of a G-1 Flying Jacket produced under the first G-1 Flying Jacket spec. from 1947 (spec. 55-J-14), duplicating the typical jackets produced by A. Pritzker & Sons, Inc., a civilian contractor to the U. S. Navy.  No detail has been overlooked by Buzz Rickson's brand, which means every component part of the jacket had to be custom made to match buttons, zippers, and fabrics that no longer exist in the same form as was found in the late 1940's; however, it is the fit, taken directly from vintage U. S. Navy specs., and the sumptuous, Merino sheepskin collar and grade-one goatskin that, along with this jacket's many other parts, combine to make this nothing less than wearable history recreated. 

The goatskin is positively striking in every way. The leather weight comes in at a robust 3-ounces per square foot and is fully vegetable tanned, rich with heavy grain, and dyed only on the surface with full-pigment dyes.  The leather is not at all stiff or overly heavy, but it is plump and firm, and fully unlike the heavily processed, chrome-tanned goatskin so commonly found in mainstream jackets.  Surface dying is how the original 55-J-14's were dyed, which means this Buzz Rickson's G-1 will age and distress just as we see on those cherished vintage jackets, with all the character of an old navy salt.  And we cannot say enough good about the look of this leather:  the coloring of the dye used and its attendant finish are simply the most like a new-condition, vintage 55-J-14 as any we have ever seen!  Other copies of the 55-J-14 G-1 Jackets, even from top manufacturers, typically can be much too dark in color, too shiny, or too matte in appearance, and the shade of brown is just never right where it needs to be - until NOW!  Even the top aficionados of the 55-J-14 G-1 Flying Jackets will be duly impressed with what Buzz Rickson brand has achieved with this goatskin leather.  

Beyond the industry-leading leather quality and character, beyond the clone-like color and finish type, and beyond the supreme comfort and flattery of the genuine U. S. Navy fit, is the mind-blowing rayon lining and fur collar.  Buzz Rickson's brand has always had their heavyweight rayon acetate lining custom made to match Navy-spec. rayon fabric in weight, appearance, and hand, but because the coloring of the lining of a 55-J-14 made by A. Pritzker & Sons is so unique among other contractors of the 55-J-14's, the lining on this example is especially noteworthy - the color, weave, and weight just hit you as something only seen on a vintage example - it both looks and feels just as a 55-J-14 made by A. Pritzker & Sons in the late 1940's did!  

Merino sheepskin is something Buzz Rickson has tweaked to perfection for at least the last 4 years.  Somewhere, the Buzz Rickson brand has located a tannery that seems to generate Merino sheepskin as if it had been genetically engineered to match the mind's fantasy of ideals:  The sheepskin used on the collars of these G-1 jackets is nothing short of mouth-watering, sumptuous, mega-plush, half-inch genuine Merino sheepskin that is just not of this Earth!

Final touches that take this G-1 Flying Jacket into the heavens include the reproduction of a blackened-metal, late-1940's Conmar zipper, genuine urea buttons (never incorrect, cheap plastic), and a copy of the A. Pritzker & Sons, Inc. label woven on vintage shuttle looms.  The sum of all the many parts is an heirloom, clone-like jacket that fits like a dream, and which can be handed down to the next generation - there's nothing disposable about a Buzz Rickson's leather jacket and it only gets better with use and age!

This Buzz Rickson G-1 55-J-14 is a masterpiece of wearable jacket art, crafted in rugged materials that are as beautiful as they are durable.  Please note the following materials and features:

• Copy of the original A. Pritzker & Sons, Inc., woven label produced on a vintage shuttle loom, not modern projectile looms

• Custom manufacturing of the correct weight and weave rayon acetate lining dyed to match the purple-like brown shade associated with 55-J-14's made by A. Pritzker & Sons

• Custom manufacturing of the correct two-ply, Navy-spec., worsted-wool cuffs with the narrow weave graduating into the wider weave at top, dyed medium brown to match what is commonly seen on 55-J-14's made by A. Pritzker & Sons

• Custom manufacturing of the correct single-ply, bi-directional, Navy-spec., worsted-wool waistband, dyed medium brown to match what is commonly seen on 55-J-14's made by A. Pritzker & Sons

• Two button-down exterior pockets lined with all-cotton twill precisely matching 1940's USN specs

• One snap-down interior pocket lined with heavy-weight, all-cotton duck twill precisely matching 1940's USN specs

• Exact copy of the vintage-style, blackened-metal Conmar Conmatic zipper on jacket front, with zip tape made of 100% cotton HBT fabric, not incorrect poly-cotton

• Leather pull tab on zipper for easy functioning with gloves

• Heavy wind flap protector located behind zipper closure 

• Bi-swing action back and gusseted armpits (with metal air ventilators) for greater range of motion without restriction

• Gorgeous, plush, genuine-Merino sheepskin collar with backing leather correctly reinforced with trapunto stitching to maintain collar shape and help keep collar up when the need arises.  The "USN" stencil is correctly applied in off-white paint to the collar back in a font style precisely matching that found on 55-J-14's manufactured by A. Pritzker & Sons.

• Sumptuous, vegetable-tanned, 3-ounce, heavy-grained goatskin that is not overly stiff or heavy, maintaining the true feel of the original jackets.  The dye coating is sprayed on, just as it should be for a 55-J-14 G-1, and it precisely matches the correct shade of brown and finish found on 55-J-14's once made by A. Pritzker & Sons; the result is a leather that will distress and age over time from use and wear to yield a vintage look that is on par with anything made in the 1940's-'50's

• Genuine urea buttons, not incorrect, cheap plastic 

• Assembly using vintage sewing machines

Even sizes 36-44 Regular.   Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Buzz Rickson goods are imported from Japan

Buzz Rickson's brand is renowned for producing truly standout copies of the famous G-1 Flying Jacket and this example, their basic spec. 7823 (AER), is the one that started it all!  

Though the first G-1 dates to 1947, the spec. 7823 from 1950 was the first in a long series of the 7823's ranging up to 7823E, and it is this first 7823 that remains the most sought after.  No detail has been overlooked by Buzz Rickson's, which means every component part of the jacket had to be custom made to match buttons, zippers, and fabrics that no longer exist in the same form as was found in the early 1950's; however, it is the fit and sumptuous, grade-one goatskin that, along with its parts, combines to make this a masterpiece.  

The goatskin comes in at 2.5-3-ounce weight and is fully vegetable tanned and pigment dyed only on the surface.  The leather is not at all stiff or heavy, but it is plump and robust, and fully unlike the heavily processed, chrome-tanned goatskin so commonly found in mainstream jackets.  Surface dying is how the original 7823's were dyed, which means the Buzz Rickson's G-1 will age and distress just as we see on those cherished vintage jackets with all the character of an old navy salt.  The sum of all the many parts is an heirloom jacket that fits like a dream and that can be handed down to the next generation - there's nothing disposable about a Buzz Rickson's leather jacket and it only gets better with use and age!

This Buzz Rickson G-1 is a masterpiece of wearable jacket art crafted in rugged materials that are as beautiful as they are durable.  Please note the following materials and features:

• Copy of the original style contractor label produced on a vintage shuttle loom

• Custom manufacturing of the correct weight and weave rayon acetate lining dyed the original shade of a purple-like brown

• Custom manufacturing of the correct two-ply, worsted-wool cuffs with the narrow weave graduating into the wider weave at top, dyed dark brown

• Custom manufacturing of the correct single-ply, bi-directional, worsted-wool waistband, dyed dark brown

• Two button-down exterior pockets lined with all-cotton twill precisely matching 1950 USN specs.

• One snap-down interior pocket lined with heavy-weight, all-cotton duck twill precisely matching 1950 USN specs.

• Exact copy of the vintage-style, blackened-metal Conmar Conmatic zipper on jacket front, with zip tape made of 100% cotton HBT fabric, not incorrect poly-cotton

• Leather pull tab on zipper for easy functioning with gloves

• Heavy wind flap protector located behind zipper closure 

• Bi-swing action back and gusseted armpits (with metal air ventilators) for greater range of motion without restriction

• Gorgeous, plush, genuine mouton-fur collar with backing leather correctly reinforced with trapunto stitching to maintain collar shape and help keep collar up when the need arises.  The "USN" stencil is correctly applied in silver paint to the collar back.

• Sumptuous, vegetable-tanned, 3-ounce, goatskin that is not overly stiff or heavy, maintaining the true feel of the original jackets.  The dye coating is sprayed on, just as it should be for a 7823 G-1, and it's also very matte in finish; the result is a leather that will distress and age over time from use and wear to yield a vintage look that is on par with anything made in the 1950's.

• Assembly using vintage sewing machines

Even sizes 36-44 Regular.   Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Buzz Rickson goods are imported from Japan