Military issue or civilian MA-1 jacket?

[eamenos]

Hello eveybody,

I,ve found an Alpha Industries MA-1 jacket in pristine condition but I'm doubting about if it is a military issue or a very well made civilian one. Zippers are Scovill, there is DSA number but what makes me doubt is that "MADE IN USA" is also written. I attach you some pictures about it.

Would be nice to hear some experts on the matter. Thank you!

 

[mulceber]

I'm not really an expert, but looks legit to me.

 

[MikeyB-17]

Same here-it’s in cracking condition.

 

[lgr1613]

The MA-1 jackets are my favorites! I have a modest collection of MA-1's along with a growing database on MA-1 jackets listing contract numbers spanning from the late 1950's through mid-1986. I also have a photo library showing many construction details and the manufacturer's tags. As well, I have an Alpha MA-1 with the same contract date as the one shown, size medium, but with a different DSA number. It does not have 'Made in U.S.A.' on the tag. None of the jackets in my photo library (any manufacturer) have Made in USA on the tag. According to "The Alpha Story" by Alan D. Criker, it would appear that the Made in USA notation on a tag indicates a commercial jacket. But as is often the case in military collecting 'never say never' - 'never say always' In any case this is a very nice jacket!

Thanks for sharing.

LGR

 

[MaydayWei]

I believe LGR is correct. Alpha once did a high-fidelity reissue of a '68 contract.
The 'Made in the USA' is the giveaway.

 

[eamenos]

The MA-1 jackets are my favorites! I have a modest collection of MA-1's along with a growing database on MA-1 jackets listing contract numbers spanning from the late 1950's through mid-1986. I also have a photo library showing many construction details and the manufacturer's tags. As well, I have an Alpha MA-1 with the same contract date as the one shown, size medium, but with a different DSA number. It does not have 'Made in U.S.A.' on the tag. None of the jackets in my photo library (any manufacturer) have Made in USA on the tag. According to "The Alpha Story" by Alan D. Criker, it would appear that the Made in USA notation on a tag indicates a commercial jacket. But as is often the case in military collecting 'never say never' - 'never say always' In any case this is a very nice jacket!

Thanks for sharing.

LGR

Thank you very much, as I was also doubting, I prefer waiting for a non replica one, 100% military issue. Regards.

 

[MikeyB-17]

It’s a very accurate replica of a 60’s MA-1. As stated, I’m no expert, but I have owned a ‘65 Alpha, and apart from the ’Made in USA’ bit, it’s bang on-far better than any other Alpha ‘replica’ I’ve seen. It was only the condition that made me wonder. Never come across this series before, so I’ve learnt something too.

 

[bn1966]

They did make a few good replica lines, made in USA as mentioned is a commercial give away, if only it was an XL

 

[eamenos]

In addition, have found other MA-1 military jacket from 1987, also with DLA number. Zippers are both Scovill and there is also a marked number that was typical from the USAF/ US ARMY. In this case, what makes me doubt is that the jacket is non reversible, I mean there is no orange colour inside (I thought all Ma-1 were reversible)

What do you think about it? Legit or non? Thank you very much. I attach pictures

 

[MikeyB-17]

Again, no expert, but I believe there was a later, ground-crew only version without the orange lining. The last flight status versions were mid-70’s if ‘Suit up!’ is to be believed.

 

[bn1966]

Have certainly seen ‘Ground crew’ MA-1’s and own a ‘79 Ground Crew L-2B and the newer CWU-45 from the same year (bi -swing back).

 

[lgr1613]

I believe the MIL-J-8279E was the last MA-1 with orange lining. The MIL-J-8279F series has the gray lining and were intended for ground personnel as stated above.

LGR

 

[eamenos]

I believe the MIL-J-8279E was the last MA-1 with orange lining. The MIL-J-8279F series has the gray lining and were intended for ground personnel as stated above.

LGR

So I understand that is a legit military jacket. Thanks for your opinions, it is a pleasure reading your comments. I always learn new things. Regards