If you decide reenacting is for you, and want to be a member of our company, you will need to start outfitting yourself. We usually have loaner gear for potential members at their first few events. We also will give you timet to purchase what you need, you certainly don't need to buy everything at once.

 When it comes time to purchase your own gear, veteran members of the unit will gladly give you advice on what to buy, and where you can find quality and correct items ( on the links page are some good sources, but always ask before buying anything ). Most events have "sutlers", vendors who sell gear to reenactors. It is a good idea to try uniforms on before buying, but if you must buy online, most sutler websites have printable measuring charts. Have a tailor or someone with experience measure you to ensure a good fit.

Uniform:

The preferred jacket is a "shell jacket", dark blue, 8 button front, stand up collar, comes to about your waist. Trousers ( also called kerseys ) are light, sky blue, with button fly and a drawstring. Purchase your trousers in a larger size than you wear in modern pants, you want them loose. Suspenders are available at most sutlers. Underwear is cotton, go all the way to your feet, and have a drawstring in the back.

Headgear:

The preferred item is a forage cap.

 Field Gear:

Also called accoutrements, black leather waist belt, black leather percussion cap pouch,black leather cartridge box, with sling, bayonet with carrier, haversack and canteen. The canteen should NOT have a blue cover, should have brown or tan. Black tarred haversack ( for carrying food, mess gear, etc ). Brass US oval belt plate ( buckle ), brass oval US plate to attach to flap of cartridge box.

Weapon:

3 band Enfield rifle, .577 caliber. Other weapons may be acceptable, ask before purchasing. A sling is a good idea but not required. Make sure you have the rife with you when you buy a bayonet to ensure a good fit, but if you order online you can usually add a bayonet to your order.

Optional and extras:

Wool blankets ( brown , tan, or gray ). Greatcoat ( overcoat ) knapsack ( backpack ).  If you wear glasses, ask a member about locating old-style frames, and ask your optometrist about putting your prescription in them. Contacts are OK, just remember there can be a lot of dust, smoke, etc.