Genuine Belgian/US Army M1971 Combat Belt – Grade A Surplus
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).
Genuine Belgian/US Army M1971 Combat Belt – Grade A Surplus
Product Overview
This is the Genuine Belgian Army M1971 Combat Belt, a heavy-duty piece of load-bearing equipment based on the classic US Army M1956/M1961 designs. Originally part of the "M71" webbing system, this belt served as the foundation for carrying ammunition pouches, canteens, and bayonets for Belgian forces during the Cold War era. Crafted from ultra-tough woven cotton canvas and featuring the iconic "hook and loop" metal buckle system, this belt is a must-have for collectors of European militaria or those seeking a nearly indestructible utility belt for outdoor work.
Key Features & Functional Benefits
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M1971 Pattern Design: A faithful European iteration of the US military combat belt, featuring three rows of metal eyelets (grommets) for attaching ALICE clips, wire-hanger equipment, and suspenders.
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Heavy-Duty Canvas Construction: Made from high-density, thick-weave cotton canvas designed to support the weight of a full combat load without sagging or stretching.
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Quick-Release Metal Buckle: Features the classic "T-hook" or "Ball-and-Socket" style metal buckle for secure fastening and rapid removal.
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Fully Adjustable Length: Dual-end adjustment clips allow the user to resize the belt from both sides, keeping the eyelets centered on the back for proper equipment distribution.
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Grade A Surplus Condition: Sourced as high-quality surplus. Expect "Grade A" condition: fully functional, no tears, no holes, and minimal wear—preserving the original olive drab (OD) color.
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Triple-Eyelet System: The vertical rows of grommets allow for the secure mounting of vintage M56, M61, and modern ALICE-compatible pouches.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Origin | Belgium (US Army Design Influence) |
| Model | M1971 (M71) |
| Material | Heavyweight Cotton Canvas / Steel Hardware |
| Color | Olive Drab (OD Green) |
| Width | Standard 2.25 inches (approx. 5.5cm) |
| Condition | Grade A Surplus (Used, excellent condition) |
Practical Use Cases
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Militaria Collecting: An essential component for anyone building a Cold War-era Belgian or US-style "Vietnam Era" loadout.
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Bushcraft & Survival: The rigid canvas and grommet system are perfect for carrying heavy knives, hatchets, and water bottles around camp.
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Heavy-Duty Workwear: Ideal for tradespeople or gardeners who need a robust belt that can support heavy tool pouches without twisting.
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Costume & Film: Provides an authentic, weathered look for period-correct military productions.
Condition Note
As Genuine Military Surplus, these belts may feature unique markings from the original service personnel or slight patina on the metal eyelets. "Grade A" ensures that the belt is in the best possible surplus condition, with all hardware intact and the canvas in strong, serviceable shape.
Domestic Shipping
We mainly use Royal mail 48 for items under 1kg and DPD for items over this weight. We may change this at any time dependant on service availability and destination.
We send out the majority of orders the same day of receiving upto 1pm
We also offer an express shipping service which ensures your delivery is prioritised for delivery as quick as possible and usually delivered the next working day.
We do offer Saturday delivery and timed delivery but prices are on application.
For US and Canada we mainly use Fedex priority and deliveries are usually recieved within 2 to 5 days
For EU deliveries we mainly use DPD by road and usually takes from 3 to 7 days, your parcels are not necessarily delivered by DPD in your county and the parcel may be passed to your countries nominated carrier.
Rest of the World, we have availability with all the major carriers and each is nominated dependant on the best service for the receivers destination.
If you can not get an automated shipping quote please contact us for a spot shipping quote.
If you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase, we're here to help.
You have 7 calendar days to contact us and arrange for the item to be returned which will be received by us no longer than 30 days from initial order. To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused (if applicable) and in the same condition that you received it. Your item must be in the original packaging (if applicable).
There is a £3.99 charge to use our returns facility. (UK domestic only)
To return your item(s) please click here
When sending items back please ensure that the proof of purchase (or copy) is within the package with any instructions if applicable.
Once we receive your item, we will inspect it and notify you that we have received your returned item. We will immediately notify you on the status of your refund or exchange and if applicable we will initiate a refund via your original method of payment.
If you opt for an exchange we will contact you for further postage costs. (price dependant on weight/destination).
If applicable you will receive the credit within 7 days, depending on your card issuer's policies. Contact Us If you have any questions on how to return your item to us.