T-5: Market Garden (Modified)

After the experience of many veterans in Normandy, SHAEF commanded that all T-5 harnesses be retrofitted with the controversial quick release box. This modification was done on a crash basis by hacking off both chest straps and replacing them with new ones fitted with release lugs. Hastily manufactured extensions clipped onto the existing leg straps and provided the necessary extra length. While these modified T-5s equipped most units of the 101st, insufficient quantities dictated the issue of regular T-5's to the 82nd Airborne. The 101st continued use of this modified parachute through the the summer of 1945 due to the scarcity of the new T-7. The Market Garden modified T-5 is historically correct only for the 101st. The 82nd used the standard T-5 model.

These reproductions  mirror images of the ones constructed by the wartime rigger units. Using our standard 2nd pattern Normandy  T-5 harness, we substitute in the modified white chest straps and attach the appropriate leg strap extensions. The back strap hardware is left disengaged as per originals. On these modifications, we use the correct white Type VIII webbing, original hardware, and 5-cord cotton thread roughly sewn "rigger style."  The griswold V-ring even retains the partial canvas chest guard roughly hacked off - exactly like the originals down to even the most minuscule detail.  A square of original brown WWII horsehair felt is mounted to cushion the heavy single point release.

Want to add a parachute canopy or foam filler?  See the Canopies & Fillers  page!
Visit the 43H Reserve or 44J Reserve page to add on the chest reserve parachute!



Standard Price: $1175 (Email us to order)