Whether you’re a seasoned bushcrafter, a history buff, or just looking for gear that won’t fall apart after one camping trip, military surplus is a gold mine. But if you’ve ever browsed a surplus site, you’ve seen the terms: Unissued, Issued, Grade 2.
What do they actually mean? Will your "Issued" jacket arrive with a hole in it, or is "Unissued" just a fancy word for "New"?
At Swiss Link, we believe in transparency. We’ve spent over 25 years sourcing the best gear from around the world, and we want you to know exactly what’s landing on your doorstep. Here is our definitive guide to military surplus grading.
1. New (Modern Stock)
The Vibe: Straight off the factory line. What to expect: These aren’t vintage finds; they are modern tactical items or apparel manufactured to current military or high-end outdoor specs. Think brand-new Wavian Jerry Cans or our own line of Classic Wool blankets.
- Best for: People who want military-grade durability but prefer modern manufacturing and zero "character" marks.
2. Unissued (The "Holy Grail")
The Vibe: A time capsule from the 1960s, 70s, or 80s. What to expect: This is "New-Old Stock" (NOS). These items were manufactured for the military, sat in a climate-controlled warehouse for decades, and were never actually handed out to a soldier. You get the high-quality stitching and heavy-duty materials of the past in pristine condition.
- Note: Because they’ve been in storage, they might have a faint "surplus smell" or minor dust/scuffs from being moved around, but they are technically brand new.
- Best for: Collectors and those who want vintage quality without the wear and tear.
3. Issued (Field-Ready)
The Vibe: Battle-tested and full of history. What to expect: This is genuine gear that has seen military service. These items are 100% functional and "field-ready." However, they carry the marks of their past: fading, soldier names stenciled on the inside, or professional military repairs.
- The Promise: Everything works. Zippers zip, buttons stay put, and there are no major holes.
- Best for: The "workhorse" user. If you’re going to be chopping wood or trekking through the brush, you want gear that already knows its way around the outdoors.
4. Grade 2 (The Budget-Friendly Project)
The Vibe: Well-loved and priced to move. What to expect: This is our most affordable category. Grade 2 items have been through the ringer. Expect heavy fading, minor snags, or more noticeable repairs. While they are still mostly functional, they might need a little TLC (like replacing a button or patching a small hole).
- Best for: High-intensity work where you don’t mind a few scars, or DIY-ers looking for a deal.
Why Buy Surplus Anyway?
Beyond the cool factor, military surplus offers three things civilian gear often can’t:
- Over-Engineering: This gear was built to survive combat zones, not just a weekend at a KOA.
- Unbeatable Value: You can often get a $300-quality wool coat for a fraction of the price.
- Sustainability: Buying surplus is the ultimate form of recycling. You’re giving "deadstock" a new life instead of contributing to fast-fashion waste.
Pro Tip: The "Surplus Smell"
If your gear arrives with a distinct musty scent, don't worry—that’s the smell of history (and warehouse preservatives). A few days of airing it out or a proper cleaning according to the fabric type usually does the trick!
Ready to find your next piece of history? Browse our latest arrivals here.