I posted this as a reply in the Ebay section that asked about the "R" suffix found on the size label on an original Aero A-2, but, in retrospect, it seems worthy as a separate topic in this section for the edification of members who may care to know more of such things. And you asked for some useful details on A-2s and B-3s of me recently, Andrew, so here's to your request:
Yes, the "reg" refers to the size, but A-2s were only made as regular fittings, so you'll not see many labels in A-2s with anything but the number alone. I can't recall seeing the "reg" suffix on A-2 size labels from any other maker but Aero. Aero appears to be making use of surplus size labels from two-piece sheepskin sets they produced: B-3/A-3 or B-6/A-5. If an A-2 contractor didn't make the sheepskin sets, it's highly unlikely there'd be any chance for this type of size label to be incorporated in the A-2. These sets were made as "regular," "stout", and "long slender," though not "long." The "long slender" fitting can also be seen abbreviated on the label as "LS" or just "long."
The B-3/A-3 sets can also be seen made as "special," which are extremely rare and reflect a made-to-order custom size for those outside the normal size range. I've only seen the "special" size on 2 jackets and a few trousers. It's my opinion that the "specials" were very rarely made in the war years (somewhat more prevalent prior to 1942) in which the B-3/A-3 sets were in production, and they may not have been made after 1942. Most aircrew wouldn't be allowed to be aircrew if they were way off the size scale in one way or the other, so it's my opinion based on conversations with those who know far more than I do, that "specials" were likely made, most often, for senior officers of some advanced age and years in service, as there was no weight restriction or physical fitness requirement back then as there is today in the military.
Saunders
Yes, the "reg" refers to the size, but A-2s were only made as regular fittings, so you'll not see many labels in A-2s with anything but the number alone. I can't recall seeing the "reg" suffix on A-2 size labels from any other maker but Aero. Aero appears to be making use of surplus size labels from two-piece sheepskin sets they produced: B-3/A-3 or B-6/A-5. If an A-2 contractor didn't make the sheepskin sets, it's highly unlikely there'd be any chance for this type of size label to be incorporated in the A-2. These sets were made as "regular," "stout", and "long slender," though not "long." The "long slender" fitting can also be seen abbreviated on the label as "LS" or just "long."
The B-3/A-3 sets can also be seen made as "special," which are extremely rare and reflect a made-to-order custom size for those outside the normal size range. I've only seen the "special" size on 2 jackets and a few trousers. It's my opinion that the "specials" were very rarely made in the war years (somewhat more prevalent prior to 1942) in which the B-3/A-3 sets were in production, and they may not have been made after 1942. Most aircrew wouldn't be allowed to be aircrew if they were way off the size scale in one way or the other, so it's my opinion based on conversations with those who know far more than I do, that "specials" were likely made, most often, for senior officers of some advanced age and years in service, as there was no weight restriction or physical fitness requirement back then as there is today in the military.
Saunders
