The Vietnam War bought in a whole new war to launch grenades at the enemy in the form of the standalone M79 or the rifle mounted M203 launcher. It was common to have a man in a section as a grenadier toting nothing but a 'thumper' and dozens of different 40mm grenades. There were bandoliers at the time but these weren't ideal to draw from in a hurry let alone the snagging in the bush they could cause. Eventually the military designed and started pumping out vests closer to the end of the conflict. This particular model (OG-106) was a refined version that came out in 1974 and basically didn't see action in that War. It did see extensive use through the 80s and could still be found with lesser equipped US units during the 2003 invasion of Iraq!
There are a few material differences between these and the late 1960s vests, but the main one is the top row chest pouches. This version they were extended in order to allow for specialist/non lethal rounds to be carried. The rest of the vest is covered in 20 normal 40mm grenade pouches - an impressive amount of thumping (and weight when full!). Each opens with a snap dome flap. The rear of the vest is mesh lined helping you stay cool as well as running slim allowing for packs to be carried over it easily. A rear strap can be pinched to extend or tighten the fit and the front buttons up with snap domes.
A very interesting and specific tool in US military history. If you collect US gear or do airsoft impressions from the end of the Vietnam War ranging all the way up to Iraq - bag one of these as they don't come up often!
Features:
- Genuine US Army surplus
- 20 x M203/M79 40mm grenade pockets
- 4 x Specialist pyrotechnic pockets
- Snap dome secured flaps
- Breathable mesh construction at rear
- Hook & loop with snap dome front opening
- Adjustable rear strap
NSN: 8415-00-146-1668
Sizing: As per medium label these will fit chests up 39-42 inches (approx 99cm-106cm). Although this is the official sizing advice, we will say that the rear strap allows for a lot more adjustment up to 8 inches more roughly.
Weight: Approx 0.52kg
Content: Nylon
Colour: Olive drab
Condition: Used/Very Good - Item has clearly had some use. There may be marks and signs of wear, but still lot's of life left. If you want more information on our condition ratings, check out our
