Don’t let not having an item keep you from attending an event. The Company has loaner equipment available and you can borrow what you need to participate.
With that out of the way, here are a few guidelines to help you get started
- Always check with the NCO’s prior to purchasing an expensive item (uniform, rifle, etc.)
- Don’t buy the cheaply made/inexpensive gear. You will end up spending twice as much by having to replace cheap items with better quality equipment.
- If ever in doubt about a purchase, ask a member. Answers are free and can save you from buying something you don’t need, saving you money that you can put towards something else.
- Always try clothing items on before you buy. Always. Sizes tend to vary a great deal in CW clothing so while you may wear a large in regular shirts, you may actually need an extra large in CW shirts.
It is recommended that brogans, socks, Forage Cap/Kepi, and shirt be part of your initial purchase. Keep an eye out for “Fresh Fish” packages offered by sutlers. This is a good way to pick up the bulk of your uniform items at a reduced price.
A note about the brogans: The most important consideration is that they are comfortable. You will be doing a lot of walking in these shoes and you should be sure that they fit well WITH a heavy pair of wool socks on. Also, pick up a pair of spare laces.
Basic Issue Checklist
Uniform Items
- Forage Cap or Kepi
- Sack Coat
- Trousers
- Period Underwear
- Braces (Suspenders)
- Socks (wool or cotton two pair)
- Brogans (shoes)
- Shirt
Equipment Items
- Canteen (Brown, light or dark blue cover)
- Black tarred Haversack
- Waist Belt
- Waist Belt Buckle (US)
- Cartridge Box
- Cartridge Box Strap
- Cartridge Box Plate (US)
- Breast Plate
- Cap Box
Rifle Items
- Rifled Musket (1861 Springfield or 1853 Enfield)
- Leather Musket Sling
- Bayonet
- Bayonet Scabbard
- Rifle cleaning kit
Personal Items
- Tin Cup
- Tin Plate
- Period Eating Utensils
Recommended Optional Items
- Wool Blanket
- Rubber Blanket
- Tent with poles and stakes (Dog or A-Frame)
- Camp Stool
- Infantry Greatcoat
- Candle Lantern
- White Dress Gloves
- Wool Gloves
- Additional Shirts and socks
Again, no one is expected to purchase their equipment right off the bat; it's expensive and is a huge investment. For that reason we would encourage recruits to get the gear as they can, over time, and make use of our loaner gear. If you start with good quality, period correct equipment, it will last you for a long time.
