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How to Tell the Age of an Army Uniform

Army uniforms change almost every generation. Changes implemented are often reflections of societal changes, different needs for the uniforms, new battlefields or camouflage needs and other functional reasons. Some changes are small, like a different shade of blue in the dress uniform, while other changes are more obvious like the change to digital camouflage patterns from the traditional woodland camouflage battle uniforms. Telling the age of a military uniform involves a little research or consulting with militaria experts and collectors.

Things You'll Need

History of military uniforms book or other reference

Instructions

- 1
  Look closely at the uniform and make note of anything that stands out. Notes should include color, which may have faded if the uniform is very old and was not well-cared for. Also look closely at the sleeves, chest and shoulders of the uniform top to see if there is evidence of patches or pins, such as the small holes made by sewn-on patches or holes where a pin once was.
  
  If there are sewing lines, trace the shape on paper to help determine which patches were sewn on, if desired.
- 2
  Look up camouflage patterns for army uniforms if camouflage is present on the uniform. Camouflage is a relatively new addition to military uniforms, which would help date the uniform. For example, tiger-stripe camouflage was popular with some units in the Vietnam War while the chocolate-chip desert camouflage pattern was used during the Gulf War but discontinued for a plainer desert camouflage.
- 3
  Look at the colors or presumed colors (if faded now) and compare to pictures of uniforms that resemble the shape and style of the one you have. For example, solid color uniforms in olive-drab green may be from the Korean War, Vietnam or other military operations during the Cold War before woodland camouflage was adopted.
- 4
  Inspect the uniform pants for size and bagginess. Baggy pants became customary for battle dress uniforms (BDUs) with the U.S. Army in World War II, along with paratroopers. If the uniform has a baggy fit to it, as opposed to the neater more "career professional soldier" look of older uniforms, then it likely dates to the 1940s or newer. If the pants have pockets on the sides, cargo-pant-style, they are likely newer versions of uniforms.

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