The Historic Flying Clothing Company Tel: 01332 345729
Email: david@historicflyingclothing.com
Web site: https://www.historicflyingclothing.com/

RAF 'Beadon' flying suit

SOLD

Code: S25203



Stores reference 22c/1052, Size 6 (ht. 5'8" - 5'11", ch. 38-41", wt. 34-38", st. 40-43").  The 'Beadon' suit, or as it is correctly termed 'Lightweight Flying Overall', was introduced late in the war as a replacement for the Sidcot flying suit.  Manufactured in a grey gabardine 'ventile' fabric, this one-piece suit has a full front zip fastener from waist to neck and a further zip around/under the crutch.  It also has twelve pockets for the stowage of survival/medical equipment and rations, much of which is similar to that carried in the tropical survival kit.  The material is generally clean, not too faded and in excellent condition.  There are some darned repairs to one of the side/leg pockets but no serious issues (see photographs).  All the zips are original, War Department broad arrow marked, complete with cloth puller tags and function correctly.  Whilst both knitted wristlets are generally good they do have a few moth holes and  the collar is peppered with small holes as shown.  Complete with integral belt, inner back pocket, cloth hanger and label.  A very good '+' used example.  These are increasingly difficult to find now - many having been used as overalls after the war.  Stock code S25203.