Gibson & Barnes Shearling USAAF B-3 Jacket

[the loco]

Any opinions about this B-3:

http://www.gibson-barnes.com/prod-293972/Shearling-Usaaf-B3-Jacket.html

How does the quality and fit compares to other B-3's from Avirex, Schott, Cockpit, Alexander, Aero, Eastman?

 

[Big J]

I've never seen G&B's IRL, but I have a 4(?) year old Areo B-3 that fits perfectly, and is really well made. Four winters of hard use, and it still looks almost brand new; a little wrinkling and creasing, but not much. Still has a lot of stiffness in the horsehide on the sleeves, fleece is in excellent condition even though it's been rained/snowed on many times. The Aero will likely outlast me.

 

[the loco]

Thanks Big J, from what I read and saw here, Aero jackets are really top quality.

 

[Fanch]

When I assessed the B-3 when I visited the G&B factory a few months ago, I preferred the cleaner look of the cleaner look of the civil version of the B-3. However both versions are fantastic. Living in N Texas, I would have to pass on the B-3 but imagine you would get quite a bit more use living in Montreal. Be sure to view Dave Marshall's video of the B-3 on their website.

 

[the loco]

@ Fanch
It's very cold in winter in MTL (-20F) and the snow is present for some 4-5 months per season, a B-3 will be fine here . So far I used a Canada Goose. The B-3 looks great in the video, will also check the civilian version. Thanks for the comments.

 

[Gromulus]

FYI

http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?77094-B-3-Gibson-amp-Barnes&highlight=Gibson+B3

 

[aswatland]

The best quality and most accurate B-3s are made in Devon by Eastman Leather Clothing. Their original maker Roughwear B-3 made from hand dyed sheepskin is just superb as is their 1941 mixed batch Perry Sportswear jacket. Their B-3s are not cheap but great quality and worth every penny IMO.

http://www.eastmanleather.com/product_info.php?products_id=160
http://www.eastmanleather.com/product_info.php?products_id=237

 

[the loco]

@aswatland
It's interesting how the quality was better +70 years ago, one would tend to think otherwise.