SADF Bush Hat, Nutria, Unissued - SIZE 54

Product Description

NEW UNUSED CONDITION

Unlike its American counterpart, the South African boonie hat has snaps on the sides to keep the folded-up brim in place. The bucket is also taller and more blocky. The chocolate brown color of SADF clothing and gear is called Nutria. Overall, this is quite a functional and stylish hat.

The South African Bush Hat is well-known and often worn in the field instead of helmets on those long, hot foot patrols during the bush war period. This model saw service from the '70s, maybe even earlier, until the adoption of the new camouflaged Soldier 2000 model, which is used even today by the SANDF.

The tall top leaves a bit of headspace to enhance cooling and ventilation, and the sides have triple grommets. The fabric is quite thick, and the hat has a double construction in many parts, which allows the hat to absorb plenty of water to prolong the effectiveness of that trick.

Size info: Size 54

These are genuine army hats made by Specific or a lesser-known manufacturer. These are unissued. The brim stiffener might be cardboard because it has never been used (or it's the 30-year storage), but throwing the hat in a washing machine fixes that.

These pieces are not just a collectible but a significant addition to any Border War or South African Police / Militaria rank and insignia collection. The "Border War" represents a pivotal conflict in South West Africa during the late 20th century, and owning this insignia means possessing a tangible connection to that essential historical context.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your collection with this extraordinary item!