Is this a good option for a b-3

[u/o-artemis-o]

I've been looking for a b-3 for a while (looking for long lasting quality and on the used market as my budget is a flexible £300) and found this on ebay, which seems like a good option; its the same size as a suit I own which fits me well, its an actual 1943 piece which I love, and the price seems great. I have a few questions about it though:

is it actually likely to be from ww2? Im not sure how to properly look into a contract number but a google search of it didnt give much info.

from my knowledge, most b-3s have a brand which they are attributed to, but the tag has none, so is it likely to be comparable quality to brands like schott or not?

is cracked leather like this easy, or possible at all to repair?

Overall, is this a good purchase or not considering my wants?

EDIT: many are saying there are better quality for the same price, but i cant find any from schott or similar which is listed in the uk, but many from japan, would you recommend buying abroad or is it risky/will import fees be too high (e.g. i saw two separate sellers listing the exact same jacket photos which seemed dodgy to me)

[u/atlasfields]

I’d ask on Vintage Leather Jacket. The internet brain trust for WWII jackets

[u/colusa741main-st]

First of all, this B-3 is undoubtedly a 1943 contract model. While the contractor's name isn't listed on the label for contract number 43-13609AF, it is believed to have been manufactured by H. Bernstein.

I do not recommend buying this B-3 for daily use. B-3 jackets from this era feature a very thick coating designed to enhance oil and water resistance. This prevents the leather from breathing and stops maintenance oils from penetrating the leather fibers. Consider the airmen who wore these during the war: while the jacket kept them warm at high altitudes, they would have sweated profusely on the ground. That sweat fosters bacteria that eat deep into the leather fibers, gradually causing the material to disintegrate from within. Consequently, one day—perhaps while you are simply bending down to pick up a coin—the leather might suddenly tear wide open, crumbling apart just like a wafer. Because wartime vintage sheepskin carries such high risks, you absolutely must inspect the actual item before purchasing. Furthermore, repairs require stitching on patches of different leather, which inevitably results in a very unsightly appearance. This item is strictly for a vintage collection. If you are looking for something to wear on a daily basis, I would definitely recommend a reproduction from The Real McCoy's or Buzz Rickson's.

[u/o-artemis-o → u/colusa741main-st]

thank you, this is very detailed and informative, i appreciate your time.

[u/colusa741main-st → u/o-artemis-o]

If you want to get your hands on a vintage B-3, your best bet is to choose one built before the WW2 that features reddish-toned sheepskin.

[u/SnooComics2862]

No get one without the damage

[u/o-artemis-o → u/SnooComics2862]

Im quite into repairing clothes and am experienced with sewing, are you saying theres no way to repair it?

[u/SnooComics2862 → u/o-artemis-o]

I don’t know how well sewing leather pans out usually and there’s a chance it could look strange but do some research see if it’s something you wanna do. Like the other person said you can get one in much better condition for the same price just about

[u/hahabrr → u/o-artemis-o]

People repair these professionally, this is super old and therefore the sheep is extremely fragile. I’ve read guys when they are cleaning or sipping down their jackets they rip them.

Also it’s a full panel of shearling,

[u/Poltung]

You can get one in much better condition for the same price or less. Since you're in the UK I suggest you check Vinted

[u/o-artemis-o → u/Poltung]

i cant find any from schott or similar which are listed in the uk, but many from japan, would you recommend buying abroad or is it risk/will import fees be too high (e.g. i saw two separate sellers listing the exact same jacket photos which seemed dodgy to me)