Also called the Parsons jacket, named after its creator Major General J.K. Parsons, the jacket did not actually bear the M41 nomenclature initially. it wasn't until the creation of the M1943 uniform set that the designation came around to be able to differentiate. The color dye used to make it is Olive Drab (OD) #3. Of course, that means nothing to you, so think of it as a tinge darker khaki with a very faint green to it. Over time, you'll be able to tell what color looks correct on an M41 (as with other things). If you're really good, you'll be able to identify OD #3 on its own on other equipment.
M41 Jackets are made of a poplin shell with a darker wool flannel lining. They have two slash pockets (older models have flaps over these pockets) and buttoned cuffs. The were originally made with a metal zipper made by Talon. There are reproductions circulating around that have zippers made by other makers and some are even European in construction, with the zipper on the opposite side. Though not correct to a T, these European reproductions look good otherwise and the M41's button flap will conceal this inaccuracy when the jacket is zipped and buttoned (as it should be when worn). If you're on a budget, it's worth your time to not ignore these reproductions if the 100% accurate repro jackets (or originals) are too expensive.
You'll want and need this jacket. Though you'll find it's not really warm enough for cold winters, it's the most common jacket worn throughout the war and lasted well after the 1943 Field Uniform was getting circulated. For Southern California, you'll find it's more than enough.
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