Good afternoon everyone, Hope all is well I am currently looking for some WWII Officer Battledress and came across some of the 1949 pattern Battledress. What’s the difference between the 37 pattern and the 49 pattern? Are there any significant differences? I am trying to portray a WWII RA Officer. Thank you all in advance Grant
On the Blouse the pocket flaps and collar are the main differences off the top of my head, on the trousers pocket flaps and positions, I think they have side adjustment tabs too and the belt loops button at the other end (I can't remember if its top or bottom) - if your going for an accurate look its not going to cut it and will jump out to anyone who knows what their looking at - as with all these things it depends what your looking to achieve and if your working to a particular audience (collectors/reenactors will notice - general public, school parties won't) or if its just something for yourself
Thank you for your informative reply. I am looking to do it accurately for myself. Good thing I asked as otherwise I might have bought some. Where would you recommend I look for / Purchase 37 Pat Officer Battledress? Thanks a lot
E-Bay would be a good source but unless you are a sensible WW2 size you may need to buy reproduction Battledress.
Hi Grant. Have you thought about a reproduction for your portrayal? Advantages for historical interpretation are: You choose the size, it will be to the pattern you choose, the finish is as made not having kicked around for 70+ years, you are not damaging an original item. If it is important to have an original iten them a modified Pat. '49 BD is a step away. A fully badged RA Wartime BD will come with a personal history, wearing it will risk damage (sweat build up, stretching of deteriorated threads,etc.). If you get a reasonably priced wartime pattern modifying it would be a shame. Regarding the collar. Most field officers used issue BD simply leaving the collar open. Likelihood of damage and regular cleaning regimes made standard issue replacements practical. Modified or tailor made versions were for formal occasions. They are disproportionately common survivors as they reflect the move from combat to occupation as the war ended. Similarly they tend to have the full set of badges often not a priority in the field.
That’s brilliant thank you. I Already have some 37 pattern OR reproduction kit so I will Just use that if you say an Officer had that as well. I would only be sitting in a tank with it not too much running around and no getting dirty but yes I would prefer accurate reproduction but the cost is quite a lot compared to original 49 but it seems 49 BD is incorrect anyway for what I want to achieve. Thank you
Example. Note the officers with issue BD blouse with shirt & tie. THE BRITISH ARMY IN THE NORMANDY CAMPAIGN 1944
Thank you for the picture. I will know continue to wear my 37 Pat BD, but with a tie and shirt. Thanks for your help