Potentially stupid question re flying clothing.

Surely there would have to be some sort of pre-issue trial at squadron strength or smaller, prior to general issue?

Maybe that would cover these little inexplicable situations..

Quite correct and it is surprising just what a large scale some items are issued on for pre acceptance trials. Thigs like new types of clothing are trialed at Regiment and sometimes Brigade issue scales. The harder use it is likely to get the larger number of people it is issued to purely to find out how durable it is under various conditions of use.

Thanks chaps for your replies.
I spoke again to the owner yesterday – he recieved them from the stores at Wittering in September 40. He is absolutely certain of that. As I said in my earlier post, I have no reason to doubt that.
Thanks Andy re tunics/battle dress. I recall Gordon Batt saying that they received battle dress towards the end of Oct 40.
Thanks once again.
Gerry

Surely there would have to be some sort of pre-issue trial at squadron strength or smaller, prior to general issue?

Maybe that would cover these little inexplicable situations..

Gerry

It is an interesting question and one we have previously talked about. In theory, as has been mentioned, it wouldn’t be possible. That said, I do know of some very odd and inexplicable situations regarding flying clothing. For example, a slightly odd but later non “D” type mask turning up in the wreck of an October 1940 Spitfire. Take also the question of battledress tunic being worn by aircrew. Generally thought of as a much later innovation, and yet evidence exists that RAF B/D tunic tops were being worn during the Battle of Britain.

Interesting question Gerry. Don’t know the answer unfortunately…! Anything is possible…

Hi all,
At risk of looking stupid across the globe I ask advice on the following.

Would it be possible for an airman in 1940 to be issued a pair of 41 pattern gauntlets?
There I’ve asked it now! Feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

I have been assured that it did happen and have no reason to doubt but it just doesn’t sound right.

As always, thanks in advance for any assistance offered
Gerry

No, it wouldn’t – every item of kit known as ‘xx pattern’ normally wouldn’t be used by the end user for a year at the earliest