Original U.S. WWII 1942 Dated Coast Guard Kapok Life Preserver Vest by Colvin-Slocum Boats Inc.
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Original Item: Only One Available. This is a really nice example of an early war example of a UCG Kapok life vest. Similar examples can be found on the United States Coast Guard in World War II website found at this link. It is nice marked as follows:
MFG. BY
COLVIN-SLOCUM BOATS INC.
AMESBURY, MASS.
APPROVED BY
U.S. COAST GUARD M.I.N.
10-A 1 APPROVAL NO.B-157.
To the left of this there is a very faint APPROVED stamping with a legible 1942 date. On the inside there is also a larger ADULTS stenciled, indicating that it is an adult size life preserver.
The vest is in the correct Navy Blue color, as used by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. This is the first of this model of life preserver that we have had, as they were more easily used post war than the "Mae West" type, which required air for inflation and functionality. This type of preserver was also intended more for "General" use, and not just for pilots. The larger size would have made it cumbersome in the cockpit, but for ship-based servicemen, it was perfect.
There were numerous variations of "Kapok" life preservers, as the name actually applies to the plant-based flotation filling, made from the tropical tree Ceiba pentandra. The cotton-like fluff and fibers obtained from the tree were known in English as "Kapok", and are both buoyant and water-resistant. The material was the "go-to" for life preservers until superior synthetic materials were developed.
This example is in great condition, and is complete, with all ties and the waist straps present and functional. This design does not have a neck rest, and can be put on either way, which is definitely a plus if one needs to fasten one up rapidly.
This Is Not Intended To Be Used As A Life Saving Measure. FOR DISPLAY ONLY.
Comes ready for display and further research!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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