Investing in military clothing system?

I was eyeing the ECWCS silk-weight baselayer yesterday. I ended up ordering actual silk (Terramar top "Weight: Approximately .25 pounds") … but does anyone have the ECWCS weights?

Has anyone figured out what Capilene piece level I corresponds to? I'm thinking 2, but not too sure.

I'd say "2" is the corresponding thickness. As to the weight, I might have to dig my never-used Level I baselayers out to weigh them (pretty insignificant as far as military gear goes, but some infantry types probably have them on a spreadsheet somewhere on the web – next to the 21 lb rocket launcher)

"does anyone have the ECWCS weights?"

I have several sets, both tan and black, in size medium, issued to me between 2001 and 2009.

On average:
top: 5.7oz
Bottom: 4.9oz

As far as I know, Patagonia is responsible for "most" of the 3rd-gen ECWCS stuff. Things "look" like sorta-kinda-changed versions of Cap/R-1/R-2/Houdini garments because they are.

The SOCOM/DEVGRU/CAG stuff is "mostly" handled by Arcteryx and Wild Things.

@Franco: I've got a pair of the M65 pant liners, and they are the "bees knees" for in-camp/in-bed insulation, especially considering the price (I got mine for $9!). A model can be found which employs side buttons along the entire length of each leg, making them super easy to put on over everything else you might be wearing. They are a bit short though; mine came down to about mid-shin. I used a piece of cordage for a waist closure.

Thanks Daniel.

"level IV is a windshirt that no one seems to know about (even the AAFES web site doesn't have it)"

It's made by Patagonia. I use this stuff frequently in the SOF community. i wear it hiking myself as well (just the silkies really). I have an entire extra set of the stuff i dont even use. I'd be willing to sell it (as it fell off my property books), unfortunately im not a paid member so i guess i cant use that section of the site. I cant say it is the lightest stuff out there, but it is definitely great quality. ive never had to return any of mine for anything, and i abuse most of the stuff on a regular basis.

here is my list, i have the weights on there. under the "inner layers"

http://www.geargrams.com/list?id=7733

Still no level 4 and 7 in AAFES, but it seems that they have flooded eBay. What happened?

Also, if anyone cares, Propper is selling the PCU version of the windshirt for about $30.

Franco,

My experience with both the pant and jacket liners has been good. The fiberfill insulation holds its loft well and comes out of the washer and dryer renewed and fluffy.

The nylon fabric inside and outside is lightweight, sleezy and very breathable. It does snag and unravel easily, however. These garments are best worn under the protective cover of a tighter woven, more durable fabric.

The pant liners have articulated knees so they are comfortable to wear.

I think they compare favorably with much more expensive fiberfill/nylon garments when you look at insulation-per-ounce and particularly when you look at insulation-per-dollar.

Daryl

Thanks for the comments.
I had forgotten all about this.
Occasionally I look at military surplus stuff, so something to keep in mind.

The waffle fleece is just like the civilian waffle fleece too, just in "subdued" colors (no flaming fuchsia or turquoise blue for an 80's retro trip).

Add: I wouldn't mind looking some of their stuff in a solid color (black?) but it tends to be heavier to meet govt specifications.