"Not to be Carried" Card - WWII RAF Escape & Evasion Reproduction
Military Clothing Size Guide (Click to Expand)
Military clothing sizes are listed as Height / Chest (for jackets and smocks) or Height / Waist (for trousers).
Example: 180/96 fits someone around 5'11" tall with a 38" chest.
| NATO Size (Label) | Approx Height | Chest / Waist (in) | Generic Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 160 / 88 | 5'3"–5'5" | 34–35" | Small (S) |
| 170 / 88 | 5'7"–5'9" | 34–35" | Small (S) |
| 170 / 96 | 5'7"–5'9" | 37–38" | Medium (M) |
| 180 / 96 | 5'10"–5'11" | 37–38" | Medium (M) |
| 180 / 104 | 5'10"–5'11" | 40–41" | Large (L) |
| 190 / 96 | 6'2" | 37–38" | Medium (M) Tall |
| 190 / 104 | 6'2" | 40–41" | Large (L) Tall |
| 180 / 112 | 5'11" | 43–44" | X-Large (XL) |
| 190 / 112 | 6'2" | 43–44" | X-Large (XL) Tall |
| 200 / 120 | 6'4"+ | 46–48" | 2X-Large (2XL) |
⚙️ Sizing Tips
- The first number is your height in cm.
- The second number is your chest or waist in cm.
- Military gear is usually cut roomy for layering and movement.
- If you’re between sizes, go down for a closer fit or up for layering.
- Example: 5'11" tall with 40" chest → 180/104 (Large).
This reproduction is a faithful replica of the "Not to be Carried" instruction card issued to Royal Air Force aircrew during the Second World War. As the title suggests, these cards were intended for study prior to a mission and were strictly forbidden from being carried on operational sorties over enemy territory. This reproduction provides a factual, clinical look at the protocols for escape, evasion, and conduct if captured by Axis forces.
Product Specifications & Features
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Service-Issue Accuracy: High-quality reproduction featuring the original RAF layout, official typography, and the distinctive "Not to be Carried" warning.
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Sensitive Information: Details the specific instructions given to pilots and crew regarding their rights under the Geneva Convention and their duty to attempt escape.
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Compact Format: Replicates the portable size of the original briefing cards, designed to be easily read and memorised in the ready room.
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Durable Construction: Printed on heavy-duty card stock that mimics the texture of 1940s Air Ministry stationery, ensuring longevity for handling and display.
Historical Context
This document serves as a primary-source record of the RAF’s escape and evasion doctrine:
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Intelligence Security: The "Not to be Carried" directive was a vital security measure to prevent the Luftwaffe or Gestapo from learning Allied evasion tactics if an airman was shot down.
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POW Conduct: Outlines the mandatory information a prisoner was permitted to give (Name, Rank, and Number) and instructions on resisting interrogation.
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Survival Strategy: Reflects the administrative side of the "X-Organisation" (the escape committees) and the logistical preparation required for crews operating over occupied Europe.
Realistic Use Cases
In keeping with our army surplus UK standards for functional historical resources, this card is intended for:
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Historical Reenactment: An essential briefing prop for those portraying RAF pilots or aircrew in 1940s living history displays.
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Educational Exhibits: A practical tool for museums and schools to demonstrate the psychological and logistical pressures faced by Bomber and Fighter Command.
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Museum Displays: Provides a low-risk way to exhibit "Top Secret" or restricted-issue documentation without using fragile original archive copies.
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Technical Research: A resource for those interested in the history of MI9 and the development of Allied escape and evasion protocols.
Condition Note: This is a high-quality modern reproduction. It is designed for active study and display, offering a realistic look and feel where an original 80-year-old restricted document would be too fragile or rare for use.
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