Original U.S. Vietnam War Era U.S.M.C. M-1955 First Pattern Fragmentation Body Armor Vest Without Pockets - Heavily Torn - Size Large

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a heavily worn and torn example of the infamous M-1955 “Flak Jacket” as used by United States Marines since its introduction in 1955. This example is the scarce first pattern without pockets, and was unconverted after the second pattern was introduced.
 
After the Korean War, the M-1951 was improved based on operational experience. The improved vest was introduced in 1955 as "Vest, Armored M-1955". The name was later changed to "Armor, Body, Fragmentation Protective; Upper Torso; (W / Collar, M-1955)".

The M-1955 remained in service with the US Marine Corps and the US Navy until the PASGT (Personal Armor System, Ground Troops) was introduced in 1978.
 
The M-1955 consists of 13 layers of nylon fabric in the shoulder area. In the area below, the vest consists of 23 3 mm thick, approximately 135 × 135 mm large Doron plates, which are sewn into pockets in the vest in three overlapping rows (and also overlapping within the row).

The vest is made of water-repellent cotton fabric. The 3/4 collar contains six layers of nylon fabric. The vest opens at the front and is closed with a sturdy zipper. The zipper is positioned so that the panels slightly overlap when closed, and is marked CONMAR. Furthermore, it is covered with a flap that is closed with four snaps.

Over the right shoulder of the vest runs an approximately 45 cm long piece of rope sewn into cotton fabric, which is known as the "Rope Ridge". It prevents the strap of a slung rifle from slipping off the rather smooth shoulder of the vest. As this is the first pattern, there are no pockets. There is heavy tearing in the base material showing the armor plates underneath. The set could use some stitching to prevent further damage. 

The tag on the interior reads:

IMPORTANT
ARMOR, BODY, FRAGMENTATION, PROTECTICE: UPPER TORSO,
M-1955 (W/ COLLAR)
SEVENTY PERCENT of all combat casualties are caused by fragmentation type  weapons. This vest, including the flexible shoulder pad area and collar, will afford you considerable protection from these missiles. However, it will NOT protect you from ALL small arms fire at close range. Take care of your vest and wear it wisely.

IT MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE!
U.S. MARINE CORPS.
SIZE L

The US Marine Corps placed a much greater emphasis on soldiers in the field wearing their vests than was the case with the US Army. Personal carrying equipment (M-1961 or M1956) was usually worn under the vest; this was easier because the M-1955 is shorter than the US Army counterparts ( M-1952 and M-69).
 
The vest is heavy and rattles a little, but does not retain body heat as much as the US Army nylon vests. It's more comfortable to wear than the M-69 because its collar is lower and doesn't restrict head movement as much.
 
This heavily worn M-55 comes ready to be repaired and displayed!