Best B-10 Flying Jacket for Casual Wear

[S1991]

Hey all,

Thanks for having me, figured this forum might be the one I need for my questions. As a collector of WWII memorabilia, from time to time you also get interested in Army Air Force items and with such, their flight jackets.

At first I was always looking at getting a reproduction A2, however I never found a decent reproduction in my size nor one that was affordable.. So I didn't went through with that idea but after having added some items to the collection of Fighter Pilots.. I started looking at the B-10 Flying Jackets, as it appears most of these men in the 406th Fighter Group used them. What brands are out there who make good to very good reproductions? I know of East Man Leather, Buzz Rickson and Bronson but not sure if there are others?

Of note, I should say that it would be a "daily wear" jacket in the winter as a tribute. So I'm not looking at something that breaks the bank and would be in my size. Which I reckon would be around 48/50. Unfortunately I'm a big guy with a big belly, always enjoying food and beers..

Included are a few shots of some of the men of whom I own some of their memorabilia.

1. 2nd Lieutenant Quentin G. Eymer, Killed in Action on December 27, 1944 over Bastogne, Belgium. Flew with the 512th Fighter Squadron.

2. 1st Lieutenant Arden A. Hitch, recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Flew with the 513th Fighter Squadron.

3. 1st Lieutenant Robert R. Kranz, recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Flew with the 512th Fighter Squadron.

Furthermore I'd like to know if it would be appropiate to use the Fighter Group or a Squadron patch on the chest? So far I only came across one photograph of 514th Fighter Squadron pilots with the Squadron patch.
Was also thinking about adding a custom paint work of Arden Hitch's plane the "Saucy Suzie". Not sure if that could be "historically accurate"?

Looking forward to hear all of your opinions!

Thanks

 

[Skyranger]

Only fivestar leather for you, because it's not expansive and they can make it at your measures.


Picture at their FB page:

 

[Shanghai-Mayne]

Buy a very good one (which might break your bank), it gonna serve you good in decades. Plus , it match with all the time and effort you spent on the research.

 

[S1991]

Buy a very good one (which might break your bank), it gonna serve you good in decades. Plus , it match with all the time and effort you spent on the research.

Thanks, I was browsing through eBay and also saw some made by "The Real McCoy". What's the general concensus on that manufacturer?

 

[Skyranger]

If you are 48/50 you can forget all the japanese and chinese brand...

 

[2BM2K]

I had a search around for photo's of 512nd patch and this is what I have found.

This thread might be of interest but it is inconclusive;

Attempting to Identify a Patch From Original Stitching Holes On Aero A2

Hi Guys I know this is like finding a needle in a hay stack, but I've seen you guys do this before, and I'm hoping that I might get lucky with the help of your collective expertise. I'm hoping to match up this stitch holes with the patch that went on this original Aero. Any help would be greatly...

www.vintageleatherjackets.org

There is an original 512nd patch on the Lost Worlds web page (near the bottom);

Original WWII Army Air Forces Squadron Patches Lost Worlds Collection 3

From Amazon there is this image;

The image of the pilot's patch is not the best but according to the description he is from the 512nd Squadron.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/406th-Fighter-Group-Legends-Warfare/dp/0764366521#customerReviews

 

[S1991]

If you are 48/50 you can forget all the japanese and chinese brand...

Thanks good to know, so as always it is best to measure up myself and have the jacket measured up to be sure.
As I'm just taking a guess honestly that it may be a size 48..

 

[mulceber]

At 48-50, Five Star is your best bet on a budget. Bronson is probably too small for you. If you’re willing to spend the money, Eastman makes a beautiful one, but definitely not a budget option. Good Wear also makes a great one, and it’s custom, but the wait might put you off.

 

[S1991]

Appreciate the help so far gentleman. While doing yet another search, I came across the company Cockpit USA..

What's the verdict on their B-10s? It doesn't look too bad honestly. Sizewise appearently according to their chart I'd be at a size 2XL which I reckon compares to a US size 44?

Thanks all for the help!

 

[Smithy]

I have two of the 1st generation B-10s from ATF which were bloody fantastic. These are not to be confused with the recent offerings which are utter shit.

The 1st generation ones are great, good pattern. One thing is they have fleece for the lining - which personally I like becuase alpaca linings make me scratch like a chimpanzee with the clap.

I have two of these (bought the 2nd as I was so impressed) and they are built like a brick shit-house. I've restored a boat and knocked and rebuilt a veranda wearing one of these with no drama. Probably one of the most sturdy repros I've ever owned.

Oh and BTW the outside colour is a dead ringer for originals. Great jackets if you can find one.

 

[Shanghai-Mayne]

Thanks, I was browsing through eBay and also saw some made by "The Real McCoy". What's the general concensus on that manufacturer?

Japanese brand jacket , usually their waist line get trimmed.
The literal best B10 , that suit your body type, and size requirement, is Good Wear.
You only need to invest your money once , for the rest of time you can enjoy your jacket, instead of ‘to find a better one’.