At Michigan Military Supply, we pride ourselves on offering a wide selection of military surplus items and new tactical gear. As military surplus enthusiasts, we understand the importance of authenticity and strive to help our customers make informed purchases. This guide will help you identify genuine military surplus and steer clear of fakes.
Understanding Military Surplus
Military surplus refers to goods no longer needed by the military and sold to the public. These items can range from clothing and equipment to vehicles. Authentic military surplus is known for its high quality, designed to meet rigorous military standards. However, the market is flooded with inferior counterfeits, making it essential to know how to spot authentic items. At Michigan Military Supply, we clearly label all our items to indicate their origins, ensuring you know whether you're buying genuine surplus or new quality tactical gear.
The Importance of Authenticity
Authentic military surplus is built to endure extreme conditions, making it significantly more durable than civilian gear. These items often hold historical significance, especially for collectors. For outdoor enthusiasts and preppers, the functionality of genuine military gear is unmatched.
Common Types of Military Surplus Items
Understanding the common types of military surplus can help you identify authentic pieces. Military surplus typically includes:
- Clothing and Footwear: Uniforms, jackets, boots, and hats made from durable fabrics.
- Equipment: Backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, and other field gear built for functionality.
- Tools: Knives, multi-tools, and other essential field gear designed for reliability.
- Accessories: Belts, pouches, and protective gear made to high standards.
- Vehicles and Parts: Occasionally available, often sought by collectors.
Authentic Tactical Gear Versus Cheap Knockoffs
New, high quality tactical gear, not military surplus, should be clearly labeled with brand tags and detailed information about the manufacturer. Legitimate brands are transparent about their products, providing labels and specifications that can be verified. While it's usually more expensive, many companies make quality reproductions of surplus gear that are comparable to the real thing.
In contrast, sellers of knock-off or low-quality gear often remove all labels to make it harder for buyers to discern the item's authenticity. This deceptive practice can leave buyers with subpar equipment that doesn't meet the durability or functionality standards of genuine surplus or quality tactical gear. Therefore, when purchasing, it's crucial to look for clear, verifiable labeling, quality materials, and to buy from reputable sellers known for transparency and quality.
Key Indicators of Authentic Military Surplus
Official Markings and Labels
One of the most reliable ways to identify authentic military surplus is through official markings and labels. Most military items will have an NSN (National Stock Number), a 13-digit number used internationally to identify standardized material items of supply. This system was developed in the 1950s, so items predating this period might lack these numbers but can still be authentic. Similarly, NATO stock numbers are used for items standardized by NATO countries, providing another layer of verification.
Government issue (GI) markings are also a critical indicator. Look for labels or stamps indicating the item was government-issued. These markings can include contract numbers, manufacturing dates, and other identifying details specific to military procurement. Authentic items may also feature the names or logos of contractors who produced the gear for the military.
Material Quality
The quality of materials used in military surplus items is another significant indicator of authenticity. Authentic military clothing uses high-quality, durable fabrics such as rip-stop nylon or heavy-duty cotton blends. These materials are chosen for their ability to withstand extreme conditions and heavy use. The stitching and overall construction of the item should also be robust. Genuine military items have reinforced seams and high-quality hardware, with uniform stitching and no loose threads. Zippers, buttons, and buckles on genuine items are robust and often have markings indicating military specifications.
Color and Patterns
The color and camouflage patterns used in military gear can also help identify authentic items. Military gear uses specific camouflage patterns unique to different countries and periods. Familiarizing yourself with these patterns can help you identify genuine items. For instance, U.S. military gear has used patterns such as Woodland, 3 Color Desert, and the more recent OCP Scorpion. Authentic military items also use dyes that are more resistant to fading. While some wear is expected, the colors should remain relatively vibrant even after extensive use.
Wear and Tear
The condition of military surplus items can provide clues about their authenticity. Authentic surplus items often show signs of use but should still be functional. Be wary of items that look brand new if they are supposed to be surplus. Genuine items may have minor repairs, stains, or wear marks, which can indicate authenticity. Soldiers often repair their gear in the field, so patches, reinforced stitching, or other modifications can be a good sign.
Spotting Counterfeits
Despite your best efforts, you may encounter counterfeit items in the military surplus market. Being aware of common counterfeit signs can help you avoid falling for fake gear.
Too Good to Be True Pricing
One of the most common signs of counterfeit items is pricing that seems too good to be true. Authentic military surplus, especially rare or highly sought-after items, can command fair prices. If a deal seems unusually cheap, it’s probably too good to be true.
Incorrect Markings and Tags
Be cautious of items with misspelled words, incorrect fonts, or labels that don’t match standard military formats. Some fake surplus items have tags made to look like military tags but lack proper details. Compare markings with known authentic items.
Poor Quality
Counterfeit items often use cheaper materials and inferior construction methods. If an item feels flimsy or poorly made, it’s likely a fake. Genuine military gear is built to withstand extreme conditions, so poor quality is a significant red flag.
Purchasing Tips
Knowing where and how to buy military surplus can help you avoid counterfeit items and find authentic gear.
Detailed Descriptions
Look for sellers who provide detailed descriptions and multiple photographs of the item, including close-ups of labels and markings. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need more information.
Return Policy
Ensure the seller has a return policy, which can offer protection if the item turns out to be counterfeit. A return policy indicates the seller's confidence in the authenticity of their items.
Conclusion
At Michigan Military Supply, we are committed to providing you with authentic military surplus and new tactical gear. Identifying genuine military surplus requires knowledge, research, and attention to detail. By understanding the key indicators of authenticity and being aware of common counterfeit signs, you can make informed purchases and enjoy the many benefits that genuine military surplus offers. Whether you’re a collector, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone looking for reliable gear, knowing how to spot real military surplus will help you make wise investments and avoid disappointments. Visit us to explore our diverse inventory today!
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