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U.S. W.W. II EM Garrison Caps
From 1939 onward, the standard issue US Army soft cap was the garrison cap. Also known as "overseas", "pisscutter", or one other nickname that I'll actually refrain from printing here. They were made from the same wool serge fabric as the Service Coats and wool trousers. Although there were variations in the lining styles, the cut was consistent throughout W.W.II.

Cut: In the late 1940's, shortly before the outbreak of the Korean War, the cut was changed to a more stylish, rectangular pattern.
Why worry about postwar stuff? Because a substantial percentage of re-enactors ("airborne" types in particular) hoot and holler about paratroopers only wearing the rectangular cut cap. Although basically B.S. there are some photos showing what appear to be such caps during the War. After doing some research, here's what I believe to be the deal. Issue caps were the "tapered" cut. However, there were hundreds of tailors offering their services to the troops. I have examined several caps from W.W.II vets groupings, that were "rectangular" in cut; but they were all obviously tailor made. They had no spec labels and they were sewn with standard single needle machines. The issue caps use double needle machines and sergers. All of the "issue" caps I have ever handled that were of the rectangular pattern were dated 1948 or later. Thus, US soldiers (including paratroopers) would have been issued a standard garrison cap. However, on their own accord, some apparently went to the local tailor or PX and had a sexier cap made. Clear as mud, right?

ATF Reproductions: Identical to the original. The wool serge and cotton twill lining fabrics were color matched to unissued W.W.II samples. They are dead on. Patterns were made from authentic caps. Piping was matched to a roll of 1942 dated infantry piping. The only difference is our thread. It has a polyestor core; although wrapped in cotton fibers (no poly is visible), it will fail a burn test. We use the blank "Phila. Quartermaster" labels in these caps. Assembled with double needle chain stitch machines and sergers.

Tailor Made Caps: We are contemplating making some of the rectangular, "private purchase" caps. However, it may be several months before we get a chance.

Summer Caps: There was a khaki cotton garrison cap for wear with the summer uniforms. Again, we may make some, not for several months at least.

Piping: Most caps were piped to indicate branch of service. At this time, Infantry (blue) is the only color financially worth pursuing.

Officer Caps: Officer caps had the front fold on the left side and gold piping. We do not have the piping and we have not made any officer caps. We may in the future (2010?) but at this time we have nothing for officers.

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Infantry $29.99 Inside Details

WWII Issue EM Garrison Cap, Wool, Reproduction: Identical to W.W.II issue caps. Blue infantry piping. Other colors not currently available. $30.00 Insignia not included EM Garrison Caps Availability No Restock Until December 2008 Size Stock 7" In Stock 7-1/4" Sold Out 7-1/2" Sold Out 7-3/4" In Stock Click here for cap patches

Airborne Garrison Caps: Blue piped with Parachute oval sewn on. $40.00 EM Airborne Garrison Caps Availability No Restock Until December 2008 Size Airborne 7" In Stock 7-1/4" Sold Out 7-1/2" Sold Out 7-3/4" In Stock