WWI Guards Division Forum

Hello group'
I'm in the market for an acceptable blanket for my tommy impression. What is the proper color, measurements etc of an issue blanket. Thanks for the help!

Ben

That is always a tricky piece to find. You want a basic grey wool blanket. We have had the best luck with AWI or ACW vendors.

If anyone else knows of specific sources who are selling the blankets, chime in.

I hope this helps.

Jim

I found these gray 100% wool blanket at www.vtarmynavy.com/military_wool_blankets.htm

They are the Russian surplus

It is difficult to tell from the photo, but I think those would work great for anyone looking for blankets.

Keep in mind, that the Tommy was personally issued a greatcoat instead of a blanket. Blankets would be part of Battalion Stores, Depot Stores or on some occasions Trench Stores, and would be distributed while in Barracks, Depots, or when Billeted. Therefore, there would be quite a variety of blankets issued depending on where Tommy was. With that said, a blanket like the Russian surplus blanket would probably work great seeing that it is the standard grey, and is 100% wool.

Not to mention, being so generic, it will cross over for other eras as well.

Cheers!

Jim

I just ordered a couple of these for those cold nights at Newville. I'll let you all know how they look when they show up.

Jim

The blankets arrived. I am really impressed with how soon they arrived. They are very good quality, but they are really really dark grey. In fact they are almost black. I think the Military Irregular Wool Blanket listed above the Russian blankets might be better, seeing that they look a little lighter in color. Either way, two 100% wool blankets will be nice to have on those cold nights in Newville.

Jim