Grades
Quick Overview
What is Army Surplus?
Army surplus is simply excess or outdated stock that was at one point or another intended for use or was used by armies, navies, air forces, police forces and other government defence branches. For the most part, army surplus will be used and in that sense it's very similar to buying vintage clothing, exactly like what you'd get off Depop or your local high street store. The items still have plenty of good years to come and more often or not are ready to be worn. Because they've had to make it up to government standards before full production, you can be assured that these are quality. Army surplus items are sustainable, incredibly reliable and durable and a great choice for people who enjoy the outdoors but don't want to break the bank.
Another quirk to army surplus is that because it can be outdated or excess, chances are there isn't active production of that product and never again will be... so stock is limited! I will always try and get back in popular stock, but there are no guarantees. Everything sold here is genuine, not a reproduction (unless in some very rare circumstances, in which case it will be clearly stated).
Now keeping in mind these items have usually been in long term storage before arriving with us, being kept in warehouses that may give a "dusty" aroma to them. The items are in great condition, but not being kept in warm high street shops or being sent straight from production lines means that it's unavoidable. We do try and freshen up items to the best of our ability, but with so many to go through this isn't realistic. For most items that have some scent, a quick wash or two will sort them out great. Other items like our larger coats may need dry cleaning.
Some items may have never actually been issued and used, but this doesn't mean they haven't sat in storage for a while, our grades below will explain in a bit more detail.
Unissued
The unissued grade does exactly what the name implies. The stock is brand new and has never seen use! This is always the best grade we offer.
Now it should be kept in mind that while these are brand new, they may have been kept in long term storage, so they may need airing. We also cannot guarantee these will be in original packaging, possibly due to us needing to take stock photos, or possibly because it has deteriorated when shipping to us, but these will be in excellent condition!
Supergrade
The second best grade we offer, excellent quality, like new. The supergrade grade stock will probably have been issued but it won't be noticeable. Of course this shares similar characteristics as the unissued grade, like the possibility of airing, but there is very little difference in quality, aside from a reflection in price.
Grade 1 & Variations
Stock of Grade 1 quality is fantastic and is our usual bread and butter. It will have been worn and seen light use, but have confidence that this will last for many more years!
As for variations, these will be notable signs of use on the item, but usually don't require too much fuss on your end. It could be that all but 1 button is missing, or that compared to other items in that listing, it is slightly more worn and unfair to compare to those of a higher grade. So variations are just a small issue that would be wrong not to note. Please feel free to get in touch if you ever have any questions about variations.
Grade 2 & Variations
This grade is categorised because of heavier use. Our Grade 2 stock is usually decided when a mixture of flaws of Grade 1 are on a single item, for example, a few missing buttons and a small hole.
Items may also be Grade 2 because of one large issue. A large tear, or all buttons missing, that sort of thing.
Grade 3
Finally Grade 3 is the most distressed grade we offer. Grade 3 items will need some professional attention. Great for people who don't mind having a repair project.
This grade of item is usually quite old, so some rarer kit may be in this grade range, it's the unfortunate downside of improper care and aging.