RARE TYPE AN-J-3 FLIGHT JACKET

[COOPER & BURNETT]

This is a quality AN-J-3 replica made by Gibson & Barnes.
The real jacket is extremely rare, this replica is somewhat rare in the fact that Gibson & Barnes did not make many of them, and are no longer making them.
The quality of the materials is very good!
They used high quality veg tanned, and drum dyed premium goatskin leather. Very soft and buttery leather!

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

The wool waist cuffs have multi-directional weave.

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

This was supposed to be a replacement for the A-2 jacket. They wanted to combine the best qualities of the G-1 Navy jacket, and the A-2 Army Air Corps jacket, and make a one standardized version to streamline things. Only a few were made (maybe 24- 48 no one's really sure) before the decision to go to fabric flight jackets. This was the end of the age of the leather flight jacket for Army Air corps pilots.
Incidentally, the Navy G-1 leather jacket continued for decades, before briefly being discontinued due to more flight jackets being ordered from the Navy then there were pilots! Everybody wanted them!

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

The zipper is a modern-day zipper, but it's extremely good quality, it doesn't feel like it's going to break off in your hand.

Lovely curve shape of the pocket flaps.

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

This has epaulets for rank.
I also like the pleats that are on the inside jacket lining. This is a mega comfortable jacket!

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

The bi swing back was done properly. Some cheaper quality jackets use very little leather in making the bi swing flaps deep. Some are just kind of for looks. Gibson & Barnes use plenty of leather to give you freedom of movement. I really don't know anything about Gibson & Barnes, but in terms of a quality made jacket, I'm impressed!

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

Any questions or comments, please reply!

 

[daw]

Looks nice, in great shape. How's the fit?

 

[Seb Lucas]

Of course rare and valuable are different beasts. These were around $400 jackets and were available until a few years back. When G&B realized no one was buying them, they were discontinued. The fit on G&B jackets is over sized and far from military. I generally have to order a size or two smaller in order for the things to fit me. Nevertheless they are very nicely made for what they are, even if they do use a polyester-twill lining.

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

Looks nice, in great shape. How's the fit?

It's a little bit loose. This was probably a modern cut, and not a military cut. I am okay with it, as I have several G-1 jackets size 42 that just are too tight. I wanted something a little bit looser. It's NOT baggy, it just has a little bit more room. I generally buy jackets now that are size 44, as I like a little extra room.
I'm absolutely thrilled with the quality of craftsmanship. Can't imagine it could have been made any better.
Thank you for writing, I appreciate it!

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

Of course rare and valuable are different beasts. These were around $400 jackets and were available until a few years back. When G&B realized no one was buying them, they were discontinued. The fit on G&B jackets is over sized and far from military. I generally have to order a size or two smaller in order for the things to fit me. Nevertheless they are very nicely made for what they are, even if they do use a polyester-twill lining.

I certainly agree with you!
It does not have a military cut. The lining of course is not authentic to the real one. It's a bit of a modern take on a classic original. Still like it though. Although it's still not a popular design among collectors, there's some, like myself, that venture off and want something a little different from time to time. Because if it's comfort level, and it's something different, I tend to wear it quite often.
Thank you so much for your input and for writing. I want you to know I appreciate it.

 

[draš katalenić]

Todays supplier

This was supposed to be a replacement for the A-2 jacket. They wanted to combine the best qualities of the G-1 Navy jacket, and the A-2 Army Air Corps jacket, and make a one standardized version to streamline things. Only a few were made (maybe 24- 48 no one's really sure) before the decision to go to fabric flight jackets. This was the end of the age of the leather flight jacket for Army Air corps pilots.
Incidentally, the Navy G-1 leather jacket continued for decades, before briefly being discontinued due to more flight jackets being ordered from the Navy then there were pilots! Everybody wanted them!

Todays supplier of G-1 jackets for USN is Excelled. Last contract is from 2015.

 

[Justhandguns]

Not bad, but there are other manufacturers which make (still) better replica of the rare original AN-J-3.

http://www.aeroleatherclothing.com/product-detail.php?id=976

https://billkelsomfg.com/shop/product/civi-an-j-3-rough-wear-clothing-co-civilian-an-j-3/

Real McCoy's of Japan also makes the A version last season

https://www.realmccoys.co.jp/catalog/products/detail.php?product_id=4517&pg=

 

[COOPER & BURNETT]

Not bad, but there are other manufacturers which make (still) better replica of the rare original AN-J-3.

http://www.aeroleatherclothing.com/product-detail.php?id=976

https://billkelsomfg.com/shop/product/civi-an-j-3-rough-wear-clothing-co-civilian-an-j-3/

Real McCoy's of Japan also makes the A version last season

https://www.realmccoys.co.jp/catalog/products/detail.php?product_id=4517&pg=

Those do indeed look like very good replicas. I like my version with the epaulettes. Although my jacket is not a true military cut, it's fairly close. And for the price point, $400.00+ vs those two beauties, ... I think I can deal with any historical inaccuracies.

Thankfully, I've been blessed with owning actual vintage world war II jackets, and some extremely high end replicas. Once in awhile like this one, I will make an exception as a daily wear jacket.