The basic uniform consists of the following items. They are considered the basic kit for the 3rd Pa. Lights Infantry. Please check with one of the persons listed on the " How to Join" page before purchasing any article that you think is appropriate. Often members purchase items from sources that are less than reliable as far as authenticity is concerned. We try to be as period authentic as we can based upon research and experience of senior members of the unit. Once you get started you will thirst for more knowledge about the period and want to read books and articles on the 18th Century.
Much of the basic kit can be hand made by you if you are able to spend some time at it. Several members of the 3rd Pa. Lights specialize in making various items as well. You may save yourself several dollars by checking with them first before purchasing some things from a sulter. A few items such as cartridge box or musket might be obtained second hand at reduced costs. Clothing patterns are available to make all of the required articles on the list. If you have access to a sewing machine, then this is the way to get started. Certain items such as shoes, buckles, and buttons will have to be purchased. Of course you will definitely want your own personal eating and drinking utensils.
Regimental Coat - Short tails, blue faced red wool with USA buttons. A temporary substitute that is very useful is a hunting frock or shirt. The Regimental Coat is probably the most expensive item in the kit other then the Musket. Good regimental coats start at around $300 complete with buttons. You can usually save a few dollars on your coat if you specify that you will sew on all the buttons. There are 40 buttons in all.
Overalls or Breeches - White linen or linen/cotton. Overalls are standard for Light Infantry however, few suppliers are able to make good fitting overalls. It would be best to make your own here. Otherwise, go with a pair of breeches for starters and wear a pair of half gaiters (or "spatterdashers" ).
18th Century black shoes - either rough or smooth side out. Either laced or buckled
Linen Shirt - White
Waist Coat - White linen or wool.
Neck Stock - Black linen, cotton duck or leather
Light Infantry Helmet - Contact Dave Clugh drclughs@myshorelink.com An acceptable temporary substitute for this helmet is a cocked hat, knit cap.
Canteen - either tin, wooden, leather, or gourde.
Cartridge Box - should hold at least 24 rounds ( contact Carl Szathmary cszathma@pics.com )
Shoulder Carriage with Double Frogg - White leather strap ( contact Carl Szathmary cszathma@pics.com)
Waist Belt with waist box - this should hold additional 15 rounds. ( contact Carl Szathmary)
Tomahawk and Bayonet - to be carried in the shoulder Carriage.
Musket - either Charleyville cal. 69 or Brown Bess cal. 75 .