The M-65 Jacket & Its History

The M-65 Field Jacket is an iconic piece of American military and casual wear. Adopted in 1965 to replace the M-51 field jacket, the M-65 served for decades. US troops in Vietnam found it useful due to its wind and rain resistance. Its many spacious pockets also made it an attractive option. When M81 Woodland was adopted, many M-65 jackets were produced in that camouflage pattern.

One of the easiest ways to tell an M-51 from an M-65 is the presence of a hood. The older M-51s don't have one! Another telltale sign is the style of buttons, though it does overlap between M-51s and early production M-65s. 

In civilian life the M-65 field jacket become a popular culture icon, in large part due to its association with anti-war protests. Movies and popular media also played a huge role in popularizing the M-65 as civilian wear. Films such as Taxi Driver helped introduce American civilians to military surplus as fashion.

The Short & Sweet:

• Genuine US military surplus
• M81 Woodland colorway
• Issued; Good condition
• Four front pockets
• Adjustable cuffs
• Zip-up and button-up front
• Hood hidden in collar