Comparable differences between B-3 and B-6?

[holdemchamp1225]

hi all,

Just wanted to know people's experiences between a B-3 and B-6. Besides the obvious differences between the thickness of the shearling, how much more comfortable is the B-6 compared to the B-3 in more moderate weather? Could one still wear a B-6 comfortably near zero and sub-zero temps? What about durability of the hide as well since the B-3 has horsehide trim?

Any and all feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Cheers,

Bruce

 

[ButteMT61]

I have a decent B3. I just got samples from Aero of their B3/B6 sheepskins as well as FQHH.
B3's are warm...really warm. But, the hides susceptible to getting torn. I know, mine have on the wife's rose trees.
The FQHH, OTOH, looks like it could withstand a getoff on a motorcycle doing 120mph!
Totally different beasts. But some B3s have HH on the arms and pockets.
If you're talking zero° or sub-zero°, I don't think a FQHH alone would work, unless it's big enough to wear a good sweater under.
B6 is about 1/2 the thickness. So maybe still need some layers...
Good luck, tough choices!

 

[HighandDry]

In my experience, the B6 is comfortable down to 10 degree F with a light sweater. Anything above freezing and it's a little too warm.

The B3 would be significantly warmer. For me, I like the simple design of the B6 and D1.

If you want durability, maybe a cheyenne or barnstormer in shearling?

 

[subject101]

Real B-6s were made for ground staff. Real b-3 were for bomber crews that had to fly at high altitude with extreme cold and risk of losing pieces of skin when accidentally touching metallic parts and guns.

That being said, I have walked around the coldest cities of England with just a b-3 and only a t-shirt. Sometimes I started to sweat.

B-6 are more wearable and adaptable for normal conditions. For taking a ride with a bike or a vintage cabrio in cold weather it is much better a b-3.

 

[Kid Mac]

The B-6 was made for fighter pilots, hence the action back. The D-1 was designed for ground crew. At least, those were the original designations and intentions.

 

[aswatland]

The B-6 was issued to pilots and sometimes bomber crew and was less cumbersome than the B-3. Although designed for mechanics the D-1 was often worn in the air by USAAF aircrew.

 

[Edward]

Did I pick up correctly that the D1 came first, then the B6 - was the B6 an official response to unofficial adoption of the D1 in cramped fighter cockpits, or did the D1 tend to be adopted by pilots where the B6 hadn't reached?

 

[Mark P]

Eastman B-6

Hi, I've an Eastman B-6 in 'redskin' finish. The leather is surprisingly thick and strong, no tears or other damage so far, and I've had it around 5 years. I purposely avoided the B-3 as it has one less pocket, and thought it would be just too bulky and hot to wear.

 

[member 16283]

I can comfortably wear my US Authentic HH A2 down to -5 celcius. That being the case, and me driving a Ford Taurus which is a fairly roomy American car, should I go for a B3 or B6 to handle Canadian -30 celcius temperature? Also, is there a way to secure the straps so that they don't dangle down on the right collar?

 

[HighandDry]

Dude, that's cold! With a heavy sweater, the B6 would do ok; but the B3 would probably be the better choice.

 

[UWEZ]

Here in Mongolia I wear my already 25 years old Avirex B3 at temperatures down to -45oC with a longsleeve shirt and a cashmere sweater without any problems. Also a dog sleigh trip last year for a few hours at temperatures between -25oC and -30oC were no problem. When I lived in Europe I could hardly wear it, because winters are kind of soft compared to here. Thus in Europe a B6 or D1 would be more suitable, while Canadian winter could ask for a B3.

 

[member 16283]

Thanks!