ANJ4, Irvin 1940 pattern, and Irvin 1942 pattern

[Naphtali]

Among reproduction sheepskin flight jackets - the ANJ4, Irvin 1940 pattern, and Irvin 1942 pattern - one will be my next, and last, leather winter coat. Although at least two best-quality manufacturers make ANJ4s and 1940 pattern Irvins, I have not examined ANY of the three jackets I named. Nor do I know anyone who owns one - despite living where winter is a seven-month season. And I've seen and examined cursorily only one junker B-3 - not too bad, by the way.

Does having fewer back pieces and fewer seams make a significant difference between durability 1940 and 1942 Irvins?

The ANJ4 appears to be a cleaner design than either Irvin. Other than being esthetically cleaner, perhaps more pleasing, does its design translate to a more durable jacket than either (both??) Irvin patterns?

Am I asking valid questions? If I am not, please guide me to the correct ones. Any of these jackets purchased from a best-quality maker is too expensive to buy on a guess.

 

[Fletch]

Durabiility depends on a lot - yes, piecing is one part of it (there's a good reason the A-2 was made with a one-piece back), but quality of leather and of construction are more important yet.

My choice would be the ANJ-4 for practicality as well as lines. Those patch pockets sure come in handy, and the goat elbow patches can't hurt for long wear, either.

Which maker were you thinking of?

 

[PADDY]

...

Duplicate threads - the boys on the Irvin thread are spot on.