A fairly uncommon reproduction of the Second World War era German Sumpftarn ("swamp pattern") was utilized by the West German Federal Border Guard ("Bundesgrenzschutz") in the Cold War. The original pattern was utilized by Nazi Germany as being significantly darker but featured the same soft shapes and distinctive raindrop design. It was fielded towards the end of the war in 1944, and proved to be an effective pattern, that the West Germans were quick to adopt at the onset of the Cold War. The pattern would continue to see West German service in three different variations, with differing levels of visibility for the distinctive "raindrop". The final variation of this pattern featured the most aggressive "raindrop" elements, and remained in service until the pattern was removed from service around 1976. For a stop-gap, postwar pattern, the pattern works remarkably well in most temperate environments. On top of being extremely effective in most environments, the pattern evokes both the camouflage engineering prowess of the former Third Reich and a symbolic rebirth of a new democratic Germany, standing guard against the Iron Curtain.
As the West German Border Guard service attempted to give off a less militaristic appearance in the latter half of the Cold War, original BGS Sumpftarn garments were completely discarded by the 1980s, with many sold off or otherwise destroyed. Original examples have been hard to find over the last few decades, given their extreme collectability. Fireforce Ventures is proud to be the exclusive stockist of this long-dormant pattern in our outstanding tactical cuts. We have faithfully replicated the final 3rd Pattern West German Sumpftarn based on several mint-condition original examples produced from the 1950s until 1976.
A legendary vintage in a modern cut, this is our bread and butter here at Fireforce Ventures. With months of consultation with our Buyer's Club, we developed a second variant of our unique Recce (Reconnaissance) Anorak. The excellent piece of kit is our own take on vintage special forces pullover smocks dating back to the Second World War, with some great modern twists!
Features:
- 50-50 polycotton rip-stop water resistant construction in West German Sumpftarn
- "Slangvel" style shoulders, elbows for longevity in adverse conditions, double reinforced with solid 50-50 polycotton ripstop
- Unique "Recce" shoulder pockets
- Large 6.75" x 12" overall size
- Sewn at a forward cant for ease of access
- Double button flap secured for retention
- Quick access down-to-up quarter zipper allowing pocket access without the excessive noise made by velcro hook/loop retention
- Ventilated armpits for airflow
- Fleece lined kangaroo pockets
- Bungie secured cinching straps at hem and hood
Sizing Guide:
| Actual Fit | Garment Measurements (measured when laid flat) |
| Small | 36-38" chest, approximately 5'7 height | 42" across chest, 27.5" overall length, 24" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 19" armpit to sleeve cuff |
| Medium | 38-40" chest, approximately 5'9 height | 46" across chest, 28.5" overall length, 24.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 19.5" armpit to sleeve cuff |
| Large | Fits 40-42" chest, approximately 5'11 height | 50" across chest, 29.5" overall length, 25" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 20" armpit to sleeve cuff |
| Extra Large | 42-44" chest, approximately 6'1 height | 54" across chest, 30.5" overall length, 25.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 21" armpit to sleeve cuff |
| 2XL | 43-46" chest, approximately 6'3+ height | 56" across chest, 31" overall length, 26.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 21" armpit to sleeve cuff |
| 3XL | 45-48" chest, approximately 6'3+ height | Garment measurement 58" across chest, 31" overall length, 26.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 21" armpit to sleeve cuff |
All prices are in United States Dollars (USD). We ship internationally.
