My First CW Kit

[Grabenkater]

Been re-enacting for the past 15 years, but never got around to getting into Civil War. Finally, after some strong peer pressure from a good friend in NC, I decided to put together a very basic Army of Northern Virginia kit.

With the help of my friends wife, we made my RDII jacket from a Charlie Childs pattern and Cadet Gray cloth from Mickey Black. The trousers were purchased from a seller here on Authentic Campaigner sometime last year; they are from Wambaugh and White. The hat is a Federal forage cap from Dirty Billy.

I have tried to either make or purchase the best items I can within my allotted funds for this kit. I have too many other hobbies, so funds are spread thin for these projects.

I know the leather gear is mainstream sutler row stuff, but it was given to me free. I plan to replace it as soon as I can. This is just a stepping stone in acquiring my kit.

I can do basic leather working, I will be making a new roller buckle belt, and possibly a cap pouch if I can find one to pattern. The cartridge box will definitely be purchased, along with a bayonet scabbard.

The shoes I am wearing are 18th century straight last shoes. I know these are not correct, but are what I had on hand for the photo.



Any suggestions other than the obvious leather gear and shoes, would be greatly appreciated.

[GarrettG1993]

Re: My First CW Kit

Read the thread CS Jackets.


Regards,
Garrett Glover

[Gallinipper]

Re: My First CW Kit

Have to watch out for those "good NC friends"; they'll lead you into trouble ever' time.

You might want to acquire a haversack, for forage and such. And get rid of those farby bricks. :D

[cprljohnivey]

Re: My First CW Kit

Haversacks are very easy to sew and make for a good starter project if you wish to get into making your own things.

[Grabenkater]

Re: My First CW Kit

The "good friend from NC" is actually a member here and said the bricks were authentic Confederate production ;^)

I actually have a haversack from Missouri Boot and Shoe, but I left it inside.

Thanks!

[sthabig]

Re: My First CW Kit

You didn't say whether or not you had purchased period undergarments, but I would stress that underdrawers and and a good shirt can make the difference during a cold night or a long, sweaty march in the blistering sun.

[unclefrank]

Re: My First CW Kit

A Tim Bender medium crown bowler! A quality hat goes a long way to set off a good impression, and Tim's are the best.

[Curt Schmidt]

Credit for opening the door to the wolves...

Hallo!

Is that the rare "Three Legged Stool" I often speak about?

;) :)

Curt

[Backus]

Re: My First CW Kit

I got to say, a Isaac & Campbell knapsack from Missouri Boot and Shoe would look pretty tight with that.

[rebelfirefighter07]

Re: My First CW Kit

If you want to make your own leathers get the book Confederate Sketchbook. It can be found easily for around $7-$10. It has patterns for all sorts of things including a cap pouch and cartridge box. Most of the patterns and notes were taken from items in the Museum of the Confederacy.

[Pvt_Sullivan]

Re: Credit for opening the door to the wolves...

Hallo!

Is that the rare "Three Legged Stool" I often speak about?

;) :)

Curt

I doubt it Curt... that stool is all about the gear from what I see.

[Sheikh Al Stranghi]

Re: My First CW Kit

Paul,

Where did you get that dummy? Looks pretty mainstream to me. Made in the german mountains?


Cheers

[FloridaConscript]

Re: My First CW Kit

A new hat would be my only suggestion. A starbuck kepi, or one of Mr. Benders hats would be jim dandy. a set of unmarked arsenal leather from LD Haning or MSB and you're in business.

[Grabenkater]

Re: My First CW Kit

Thanks for all of the suggestions.

Curt,

That three legged stool is my universal re-enacting chair. It works with all of my impressions from 1st century AD to 20th century AD :wink_smil

[Milliron]

Re: My First CW Kit

Not too bad. You need a new hat. I like the jacket a lot. A good knapsack or a simple blanket roll would help as well. What about your canteen?