Up there with the hardest to find camo items from WW2, the elusive British made ETO sniper smock. Made in the UK in 1944 on on two contracts, one with Denhams the other with M. Belmont, and part of the reverse Lend Lease program for American army serving in Europe. They were likely issued in small numbers in Normandy as part of the unsuccessful test of camouflage in that theatre. There are apocryphal stories of camo being withdrawn after friendly fire incidents, though there is no evidence to support this. Rather its likely issued camo garments wore-out and wer replaced by HBTs and P43s. Certainly sets made their way to Indochina with the French as there are numerous photos of them being worn during the early days of Vietnam.
Whilst this shares many features with it's US made cousin, these British made versions vary pretty wildly! First up the camo is very different, it broadly shares the same pattern, though the colours of the beach side have been adapted to a brown & blue/green combo more suited use in Europe. These are actually fully reversible with deep chest pockets on both sides, and a wild double buttoned front closure. Its a completely unique design.
Condition
Used but is overall good condition. Some small repairs to the collar, neck and hem all done with original fabric, and one small knick on the green side pocket. Some light marks throughout. A very solid wearable pieces.
Size
- Tagged a 38
- Pit to pit 22.5"
- Shoulder to shoulder 19"
- Shoulder to cuff 23"
- Collar to hem 26"