One of the most recognised and sought after camouflage patterns, the iconic Tiger Stripe. The patterns origins are shrouded in mystery, but it's very clear that it's a direct descendent of the lizard pattern that was used French prior to their withdrawal and remained in use with the South Vietnamese well into the 60s. Tiger Stripe was developed and used extensively by the ARVN forces from 1959, but would find its way into the backs of many US troops who obtained sets either from ARVN stores or from the many tailors around bases who would make them in the larger US sizes.
This particular shirt is known (by Sgt Johnson's classification) as the Late War Lightweight (LLD) variation. These were predominantly produced for US troops and tend to fit bigger sizes. The key differentiators with the pattern are the lightweight fabric, which was suited to the tropical climates, but was disliked by soldiers as it tended to rip easily in the bush, and its pea green colour when fading. Also typical of this pattern is the short sleeves to the shirt (this is not shrinkage!).
Condition
This is a great, faded condition. The black has silvered slightly and the green is still a strong pea colour. The shirt is in great shape with no holes, the only issue being the lowest buttonhole has unpicked, but this doesn't cause any issues with fastening.
Size
- Stamped US Medim
- Fits a modern size 40"
- Pit to pit 22"
- Shoulder to shoulder 17.5"
- Shoulder to cuff 22"
- Colar to hem 28"