This uniform saw all kinds of action during its tenure, serving its purpose dutifully. It kept our military personnel clothed as we entered into the 21st century, and has brought them to their next stage of uniform evolution. The battle dress uniform (BDU) was the standard issue form of combat dress for all branches of the U.S. military for over 26 years, entering into service in September of 1981. The uniform become unauthorized on April 30, 2008. But regardless of this, some military personnel still wear some of its pieces. Some police units, such as SWAT, also still make use of the uniforms.
As the name suggests, the uniform was designed for battle situations, as opposed dress uniform used for other purposes. Components of the BDU included a hat, shirt, and pants, which are all shown to the left. A field jacket similar to the M-65 was also used for cold weather conditions. The original design used for the BDU was Woodland camouflage
is shown in the picture to the left.
As any form of military clothing or gear, the BDU underwent several modifications and changes throughout its history. In 2001, the Army began to use a beret with the garrison uniform instead of the BDU cap (although the cap was still used during combat).
Two versions of each the jacket and pants were made: one for hot weather and one for temperate weather. The hot weather components were made from either 100 percent cotton or 50/50 cotton and polyester, both in the ripstop weave. The temperate weather components were made in the twill weave with cotton and either polyester or nylon.
Several camouflage patterns and solid colors were used throughout the BDUs history. These designs and colors included the original Woodland 
Camouflage; six- and three-colored desert patterns; and solid black, navy, and khaki. Two other patterns, “chocolate-chip camouflage” and “desert night camouflage,” were also used during the Gulf War in 1991. (If you’re interested in more camouflage patterns, click here.)
All branches of the military have de-commissioned the BDU. The Marine Corp now uses the Marine Corp Combat Utility Uniform, with it changeover from BDUs being completed in 2004. The Army uses the Army Combat Uniform, adopted between 2005 and 2007. The Navy Began using the Navy Working Uniform in 2007, authorizing it in 2009. The Air Force now uses the Airman Battle Uniform, and is expected to complete its changeover from BDUs by 2011.
So now the question is, what good is the BDU for the non-military person? Well, since the uniform was field-tested for over 25 years, and it stood the test, it must be among the highest quality of all clothing. Its durability and ruggedness make it perfect for camping and hiking. The wide range of camouflage designs make it great hunting clothing. And its fashion provides for the perfect casual military outfit.
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Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.
(M-1965) has been in use by the military for over 40 years. Designed for soldiers in Vietnam for cold weather weather conditions and the monsoon season, the M65 is as tough as jackets get. The jacket also provided camouflage for soldiers, as the original jackets were olive drab in color. The jacket now comes in a variety of other colors, including black, navy blue, Woodland camouflage, and Universal Camouflage Pattern. (If you are interested in a more in-depth look at different types of camouflage, including hunting camouflage, check out 
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