Looks Like AVI is Back in the Game!

[Peter242]

Hi Peter,

I don't want to get into a "who's better between 5* and AVI", there are proponents of both camps, and a number of reviews of both makers' jackets on the forum already.
Both companies will offer a level of customisation, at no extra cost, probably more so with Shawn. AVI's jackets are returnable, unless customised.
Its worth mentioning that both AVI's 55J14 and M-422A are copied/ based off originals in their collection.
5*s USN jackets are roughly based off AVI's first repro 55J14 G-1 (this may have changed recently, so am happy for the guys to correct me there). But this goes back a few years.

Accuracy is a relative term... Especially at this price point.There more 'accurate' you go, the higher the price is going to go, so it depends what detailing you're after and how high your expectations are.

That said... Ill offer the following, having owned almost ever iteration of AVI's jacket since they first started making flight jacket repros.

All AVIs jackets are copied off original jackets, so the patterns are relatively authentic (size grading aside...) - I wear size 42 originals, A-2 and USN and true to form, I wear a 42 in AVI's jackets.
The materials are good enough for a decent, hard-wearing jacket (Ive replaced the knit in the past to take the detailing up a notch, but this is no longer necessary)

The 55J14 is an early G-1 pattern. It tends to have wider shoulders, and a narrow torso, so its better for the trim/ athletic among us.
The M-422A, copied off their G&F, is a more well-rounded sensible pattern, its also slightly longer all-round, so may fit better.

I really like both jackets. I found the G-1 a touch short for my liking (although totally authentic, and I find most G-1s short), I reviewed mine a few years back.
I recently received the M-422A (pics posted previously), and despite some 'cosmetic detailing', which is being corrected for subsequent jackets... the jacket is really nice. Its super comfortable, fits well and the profile is sharp, classic G&F. (Ive owned an original WW2 FO M-422A and a repro ELC G&F M422A, among others for comp)

The 'cosmetic detailing' being updated, are things like widening the left pocket (unique G&F feature), moving the hanger tab up into the neckline, an extra row of stitching below the collar and on the pocket. I believe they are also going to use a slightly thicker leather. So... details... But certainly makes for better 'accuracy'.
This is great, but even without the updates, doesn't detract from a perfectly decent, M-422A repro (they could have said it was their house jacket, interpretation...)

AVI appears to be opting for generic labels, maybe to save costs, maybe so as not to claim to produce a 100% accurate repro of a specific contract... I dont know.

Personally, Id recommend the M-442A - Its a comfortable, easy to wear pattern, and I doubt you'll find a better, more accurate M-422A repro at this price.
If you want to hold on for a couple of weeks, they are sending me the updated jacket with the above details, and you can see it then.

Either way, if you order a regular size jacket, its fully returnable. In the past, Ive ordered two jackets, two sizes... And returns/ refunds have been easy.

first of all thanks for your (and @Enigma1938 ) detailed answers. And sorry for my dumb question - after reading the complete thread I saw that most points were already dicussed. Back to topic- I think I will wait till you receive your updated m422a. although I’ve got a wider chest and a relativ trim waist - but I also like bit longer jackets. So i think is better to wait and see your final comparison.

 

[pierregloom]

I had the answer that my jacket size 38 will be the updated jacket so I'm very curious to see the changes too !
But now I hope really hard that the 38 will fit right, because if it isn't the case... It will be hard not to return both 38 and 40 in order to have the updated version... especially if they change the leather !
The hardest thing now when you're naturally anxious like me... is to wait !

 

[Brettafett]

I thought the 40 fit you fine... These were not supposed to be worn too trim.

 

[mulceber]

Beyond fine, the 40 was a great fit. Maybe even a bit on the trim side. As Brett said, these jackets weren't worn too trim. Your average pilot would likely have at least 2-3 layers on underneath the jacket.

 

[Brettafett]

Check these pics. Classic WW2 M-422/ M-422A fit.
Baumler and Hill, AVG

Tex Hill

 

[Chandler]

Check these pics. Classic WW2 M-422/ M-422A fit.
Baumler and Hill, AVG
View attachment 72234

Rebels to the end. Transfer to the AAF, keep the AVG issue Navy jacket.

 

[Brettafett]

Very true, that top pic was 23FG era
Baumler certainly received an A-2 at some point also... I dont recall seeing any pics of Hill ever wearing an A-2...?

 

[pierregloom]

Thanks @mulceber & @Brettafett . I know, and like I said before, I wanted to be sure about the size I've got, even if the 40 isn't too big.


If it wasn't this story of updated jacket, I think it will be easier to choose the one that I feel the best for me, but if there's too many differences between the two jackets, size appart, it will be difficult to juge it only on the size...

We'll see when I'll try it, and if it's 40 that I have to keep, at least I'll know then, and decide what to do.

 

[Chandler]

I dont recall seeing any pics of Hill ever wearing an A-2...?

Probably a good luck choice.

 

[Enigma1938]

So guys,
After sending my 1st M422a back to Denmark I decided to give AVI a second try. I ordered the updated M422a. According to Morten it will be ready in two weeks. I'm in no hurry, main thing is that the jacket will be to my liking then.
Will post my experiences then.

 

[Brettafett]

Same here. I understand the goat will be slightly 'thicker' also...

 

[Peter242]

lookiing forward for your reviews

 

[pierregloom]

My updated size 38 has been despatched today, I just received the notification, I'm very curious to see what is different.

 

[Enigma1938]

Same here. I understand the goat will be slightly 'thicker' also...

I really hope so. Maybe there are originals with thin goat skin out there but I would like my repro with the thicker one. It just appears more sturdy durable and "precious"

 

[Peter242]

today I‘ve mailed with avi concerning the updated m422 and received some pics. Think they made some goo improvmeets.
@Enigma1938 @Brettafett what are your opinions ?

 

[pierregloom]

I see it's a 38, I guess it's mine that is suppose to arrive at home on the upcoming days !

 

[Enigma1938]

Thank you for the pics Peter. Well, at least the collar seam is present now and the hanger wandered upwards that's great already. If the bigger pocket and the leather thickness and stuff is done also it seems like a good jacket.

 

[MikeyB-17]

It strikes me that AVI’s goatskin looks more like the goat on the (any number of) USN G-1’s I’ve owned than any of the sumptuous stuff used by more expensive makers.

 

[Peter242]

Thank you for the pics Peter. Well, at least the collar seam is present now and the hanger wandered upwards that's great already. If the bigger pocket and the leather thickness and stuff is done also it seems like a good jacket.

In their mail they told me, that the size of the pockets are also updated to the size of the original. Concering the leather - we will see what @pierregloom can say after his jacket has arrived. Thinking about ordering one too.....

 

[pierregloom]

... always waiting for it, the tracking has not been updated since Monday (saying "The shipment item is under transportation."), I begin to feel that I won't receive my jacket before the weekend...
Maybe @Brettafett will have his updated jacket before me .


I'm looking forward to it, I can't imagine how you people do when you have to wait for a jacket to be made for over a year!
Is the waiting easier when it's not your first repro jacket?