Anj-4

[avique]

I've been lurking around the forum for the last few years but to be honest I don't generally feel that have much contribute so I haven't posted very often. However I've learned a lot about leather jackets from the folks here and it's lead to purchasing my first Aero (a Hudson) and a nice Vanson. Now I'm considering an ANJ-4 to replace a Cockpit USA B3 I purchased many years ago. I've read a lot of reviews from various members and I know that several of you have owned this jacket from several of the major makers. I've been leaning toward Lost Worlds but that may simply be because I'd like to see their legendary sheepskin with my own eyes.

Anyway, with that said I'd like to ask those of you who have owned an ANJ-4 from multiple makers which one you would buy again? Did one of the jackets stand out above the others?

Thanks for the help!

 

[John Lever]

I have owned RMNZ,ELC,Aero and LW. My opinion is RMNZ and LW are the best from a very good bunch. Why ? Quality of sheepskins and superb craftsmanship particularly in the LW.

 

[Plumbline]

Equally I've owned Aero (3) ELC (2) and LW (1)

My favourite is ELC ( Fit and quality ) .. closely followed by LW ( Stu's sheepskins - especially the B3 and ANJ-4 - are amazing and the only reason it's not first is I found the sheepskin a bit heavy and unweildy) .... there has been nothing wrong with my three Aero's but as John says above they are in a very good bunch just slightly lower doen the league table in fit and quality.

Still all AMAZING jackets though and you wouldn't be dissapointed with ANY of them TBH.

 

[John Lever]

LW are now using the same dense sheepskins but they are no longer stiff like cardboard. Stuart sent me a sample and they are totally different to those used previously. What I like about RMNZ is that the leather trim panels are absolutely the same colour as the sheepskin. Eastman seal is too russet when compared to originals so that they look like duo tone B3's. The fleece is also very fuzzy and dry looking. Great jackets but not unite what there were 20 years ago. Just my opinion.
If the starter of this thread wants a new LW jacket I know where there is one at a bargain price and it's brand new but a size 40.

 

[avique]

Thanks for sharing your opinions. As I said I'm leaning toward LW but I'll have to keep saving for a bit longer before I can afford it.

John,
unfortunately I typically wear a 44 and Stuart recommended a 44 R based on the measurements I sent him. Otherwise I'd jump at the opportunity for a bargain priced LW ANJ-4.

Also thanks for letting me know about the new sheepskin at LW. It sounds wonderful.

Thanks again for the help!

 

[John Lever]

Lost Worlds then. Stuart has very limited stock of sheep but delivery time is only about 3 weeks. Mine should be here this week. Can't wait.

 

[pak]

I've been considering one. I noticed US Authentic makes one with goatskin doubling leather like LW.

 

[John Lever]

I haven't seen one of those in hand but after all my trials I would say buy only once but buy the best. The LW jacket will truly last a lifetime.

 

[avique]

Lost Worlds then. Stuart has very limited stock of sheep but delivery time is only about 3 weeks. Mine should be here this week. Can't wait.

John,

I hope you'll post some pic's when it arrives. Stuart told me he had one 44 R currently in stock and was taking orders for March.

 

[John Lever]

Ok should be this week. I had one years ago but stupidly sold it.

 

[Worf]

I'm in the GoodWear queue for an ANJ-4 sometime this year. Of course that doesn't help you now but they are someone else to consider if you can stand the wait.... wait.... wait...

Did I mention you have to wait?

Just kiddin' J.C.

Worf

 

[pak]

I mentioned US Authentic because a budget was mentioned. LW's ANJ-4 certainly looks like a thing of beauty and it should for the price differential of almost 70%.

 

[avique]

I did consider US authentic along with Eastman/Aero but US Authentic doesn't seem as highly regarded among the membership. Originally I was budgeting based on Eastman/Aero so the LW is a significant increase. I'll just have to be patient and save a bit longer.

 

[John Lever]

I mentioned US Authentic because a budget was mentioned. LW's ANJ-4 certainly looks like a thing of beauty and it should for the price differential of almost 70%.

it is a lot of money but worth it IMO

 

[avique]

John,

If you don't mind my asking, what size did you order from LW ? If I remember correctly you typically wear a 44 which is the size I'm looking at as well. If yours is a 44 I'd like to get your opinion on the fit before I order.

 

[John Lever]

I spoke to Stuart to ask his advice and he recommended a size 42 regular. My old jacket was slightly big on the waist.

 

[John Lever]

No time yet to take photos but the jacket has exceeded my very high expectations. The sheepskin is simply the best I have ever seen. Bobbly nubbed fleece with a soft glossy outer.( Why do some repro makers use dry dead looking materials ?) It even came with a NOS Conmar zip ! It might be ever so slightly big but I can move my arms and the gussets are just right. So often a poor pattern can cause pressure under the arms so much so that it can cause numbness. Obviously it is beautifully made with not a stitch out of place.
Stuart linked tracking to me all the way and combined with the very short lead time it adds up to very high customer service.

My verdict even better than RMNZ.

 

[Plumbline]

If exceeds Dr Levers expectations .. it must be AWESOME

So get the pics up then ......... slacker

 

[John Lever]

Stuart listened to his customers and has ditched the bulletproof skins for new skins of stupendous quality. I don't know where they are from but they are in short supply.

 

[avique]

John,

You make me want to order one today, although I think my wife might divorce me. Can't wait to see the pics.