'Strichtarn' East German Field Jacket
'Strichtarn' East German Field Jacket
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German Summer Strichtarn Field Jacket
History.
Strichtarn despite being a copy, of Polish design, which was a copy of German design, ultimately became a symbol of the German Democratic Republic.During the Cold War, it served as an ideological marker, arming revolutionary movements in Africa and becoming so identifiable that it was cloned for use in deception operations, by SADF. After the Cold War, the vast surplus of Strichtarn became a material legacy of a collapsed state, equipping new armies and militias in the conflicts that defined the 1990s, ranging from the Balkans, Africa, Chechnya, to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
Description
The 1979–1990 Strichtarn field suit represents the final evolution of the DDR’s iconic camouflage uniform. Compared to earlier versions, this model features a more ergonomic, form-fitting cut and added bottom pockets on the jacket for greater utility. The arm and leg pocket buttons are now concealed, giving the uniform a cleaner, more uniform appearance. Unlike the late ’60s variants, the foliage loops along the collar were removed.
This particular set includes two chest pockets, two bottom pockets, and an internal sidearm holster designed for discreet carry under webbing. Built from durable cotton-blend fabric, it’s a perfect example of East German functional design.
Features
- Authentic NVA field suit (Strichtarn pattern).
- 1979–1990 production type, late DDR design.
- Two chest pockets + two bottom pockets.
- Internal holster for concealed sidearm.
- Hidden arm and leg pocket buttons.
- Form-fitting cut (more modern silhouette).
- No foliage loops on clavicle.
- Durable cotton-blend fabric.
- Genuine Cold War surplus.
The Strichtarn field suit is one of the most recognizable Eastern Bloc uniforms ever made simple, sharp, and full of history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering & Payments
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
I accept major credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Apple/Google Pay. All transactions are securely processed through payment provider. No payment details are stored on the website.
Q: Can I change or cancel my order?
Contact me immediately at warsawsurplus@gmail.com, or instagram, with your order number. I can usually cancel or amend orders within same day of purchase, if the item has not been shipped.
Q: Do you support guest checkout?
Yes, you can checkout as a guest. Creating an account speeds future purchases and tracks order history.
Shipping & Delivery
Q: Where do you ship?
We ship worldwide. Any customs duties or import taxes are the buyer’s responsibility unless otherwise stated at checkout. For country-specific information, please contact me in form bellow.
Q: How long does shipping take?
Orders are typically processed within 1–5 business days. Shipping time depends on destination and chosen service, can also be disrupted by varied events,
Estimated delivery for Polish Post Priority is usually, within 1-2 week time frame.
Polish Post Economy (to countries out of Europe), is transported on freights, taking somewhere around 2 months.
Q: Do you offer tracked shipping?
Yes, tracked shipping is standard all orders.
Q: What if my package is lost or delayed?
If tracking shows an issue, contact me with your order number. I’ll open an investigation with the carrier and, if the package is confirmed lost, offer a full refund or replacement.
Returns, Refunds & Exchanges
Q: What is your returns policy?
Returns accepted within 14 days of delivery. Item must be in the same condition as received. Buyer pays return shipping unless the item was misdescribed, or for any other common sense cause.
Q: How do I start a return?
Email warsawsurplus@gmail.com with your order number and reason for return. I’ll issue a returns authorization and instructions.
Product Authenticity & Sourcing
Q: Are your items authentic?
Yes. We specialize in original military surplus and vintage garments. Each item is inspected and described honestly.
Q: Do you sell reproductions?
If we offer reproductions, they are clearly labeled “Reproduction” in the title and description.
Q: How do you verify provenance?
Verification methods vary by item, maker marks, stamps, service tags, paper provenance, and expert inspection.
Condition, Alterations & Damage
Q: What does “Issued” condition mean?
Issued items usually show signs of use, there might be some missing button, or a patch-work. But item is still fully servicable and usable. Photos highlight flaws and read descriptions before buying.
Q: Do you alter or repair items?
Yes. I ask my auntie to perform basic repairs (stitching, buttons).
Sizing & Fit
Q: How do I know which size to buy?
See 'Sizing Guide' for more. Always use the exact garment measurements provided on each product page (chest, sleeve, length, shoulder in cm). Historic labels can be inconsistent, measure a comparable item you own and compare.
Q: How do you measure?
Chest = laid-flat width ×2; Total Length= bottom of jacket-to-collar; Sleeve = top of shoulder to cuff. If you need help, send your measurements through the store's contact option and I’ll advise.
Care & Preservation
Q: How should I care for vintage garments?
Handle gently. Hand wash or gentle machine cycle cold, air dry. Avoid bleach and high heat. Specific care notes are on each product page.
Q: Can I wear vintage items daily?
Yes, but remember vintage fabric and hardware may be fragile.
Legal & Safety
Q: Are wartime insignia or controversial symbols sold?
We sell historical items for collection and study, not endorsement. Listings with historical insignia are presented in context.
Q: Do you sell weapons or functional military equipment?
No. We only sell clothing and deactivated accessories. We do not sell live weapons, ordnance, or restricted items.
High-value items & Authentication
Q: Can I inspect a high-value item in detail?
I offer additional photos, video calls, and secure insured shipping.
Account, Privacy & Security
Q: How do you protect my data?
We use SSL encryption on all pages that handle payment and personal data. We never share your payment details with third parties; our full privacy policy is on the site.
Q: How do I delete my account?
Email warsawsurplus@gmail.com with “Delete my account” and we’ll remove personal data per our Privacy Policy and applicable law.
Marketing & Restock
Q: How often do you get new items?
We add curated pieces regularly. Follow us on Instagram for first access to new finds.
Q: Can you hold/reserve an item?
I can hold items for a short, explicit window (e.g., 24 hours) by agreement. I don’t indefinitely reserve items without deposit, contact me to request a hold.
Wholesale, Consignment & Press
Q: Do you accept consignments or buy collections?
Yes. For consignments or collections, email warsawsurplus@gmail.com with photos and provenance; we’ll respond with terms.
Q: Media or press enquiries?
Email warsawsurplus@gmail.com for interviews, high-res images, or event participation.
Problems & Support
Q: Something wrong with my order — what now?
Email warsawsurplus@gmail.com with your order number and photos if applicable. Expect a reply within 48 hours (usually faster). I’ll resolve damaged, missing, or misdescribed orders quickly.
Sizing Guide
Sizing Guide for Military Surplus;
The size format is AA / BB — AA is the garment chest (in cm), BB the approximate wearer height (in cm). Measure a jacket you own flat across the chest (from under armpit to armpit), double that number to get the circumference, then choose a garment that gives you the ease you want. Convert inches ↔ cm with 1 in = 2.54 cm. If you’re unsure, message us your measurements and we’ll advise.
General Body Size for JACKETS and other tops.
| Size | Chest Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|
| XS | 81 - 86 |
| S | 86 - 94 |
| M | 96 - 104 |
| L | 106 - 114 |
| XL | 117 - 124 |
| XXL | 127 - 135 |
For Pants.
| Size | Waist Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|
| XS | 64 - 69 |
| S | 71 - 79 |
| M | 81 - 89 |
| L | 91 - 99 |
| XL | 101 - 107 |
| XXL | 111 - 116 |
Lenght Guide;
| Size | Recommended Height (cm) |
|---|---|
| XS | 155 - 165 |
| S | 160 - 170 |
| R | 170 - 180 |
| L | 180 - 190 |
| XL | 190 - 195 |
| XXL | 190 - 200 |
- S (Short): Suitable for people of shorter stature, typically between 160-170 cm in height.
- R (Regular): Ideal for those with a height range of 170-180 cm.
- L (Long): Best suited for individuals between 180-190 cm in height.
- XL (Extra Long): Recommended for taller individuals, with a height range of 195-200 cm.
| Size | Chest Circumference (XX) | Recommended Height (BB) |
|---|---|---|
| 88/170 | 88 cm | 170 cm |
| 92/175 | 92 cm | 175 cm |
| 96/180 | 96 cm | 180 cm |
| 100/185 | 100 cm | 185 cm |
| 104/190 | 104 cm | 190 cm |
Recommended Height (BB):
- Use your total body height to find the recommended size for your chest width.
By combining these two measurements (length and chest width), you can find the right size for your military clothing. Compare your measurements with the guide to ensure a precise fit!