When it comes to the basic need for warmth and minor protection, the M65 is the most favored military jacket.  Replacing the old M-1951 jacket, the M65 (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 this article.)

This time-tested jacket is made from half nylon, half cotton sateen, and has a removable liner filled with polyester for use during extreme cold weather.  The back of the neck of the jacket features a hood that can be folded and stowed using a zipper.  The front of the jacket has four pockets: two near the hips and two at the chest.  This jacket features a dual-closure system: the zipper (primary), and a snap system.

The jacket could, and still can, be used as a part of the soldier’s uniform.  When the jacket is used in the military today, several labels are included on the jacket.  The title of the military branch is identified by a patch on the left breast, a rank insignia is on the middle of the front closure system, and the wearer’s name is on the right breast.  Other labels include tab patches, skills badges, division badges, and a reversed flag patch.

The jacket was made for use in the battlefield, but its benefits exceed beyond its area of intended use.  It has been field tested by this country’s soldiers, and it passed that test, which means it can handle anything you put it through.  It works great for hunting on those frigid days, but also for everyday use during the cold months of the year.  Plus, this jacket has been around for so long that it will never go out of style.

To get your M65 jacket with authentic specifications, click here.

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.