Proper B3 fit

[Xopher]

How many inches of chest room should you have with a B3. If my chest measures 42 would an external jacket measurement of 23 pit to pit fit or should you size up? This would be for an Eastman.

 

[Big J]

Depends what kind of fit your going for. Interestingly, I've never, ever seen any discussion of how it's supposed to fit with the C-3 vest, which would suggest to me that all tag sizes will seem over-sized without wearing the vest, and yet they aren't. What's going on with that?

 

[Edward]

I typically look for six inches over my tag size (I'm a 44 usually, so 50") in order to be able to fit one over a heavy sweater. If I was never going to wear more than a shirt under it, 48 would be fine.

 

[John Lever]

How many inches of chest room should you have with a B3. If my chest measures 42 would an external jacket measurement of 23 pit to pit fit or should you size up? This would be for an Eastman.

I would opt for a 44 or even a 46. I have found that with all the Eastman B3's I have owned that were later patterns it is very difficult for me to comfortably lift my arms above shoulder height making it near impossible to work the collar straps. The Perry B3 was the tightest of all.

 

[s4rmark]

I would look at the historypreservation .com website, they have sizing tips for every Eastman jacket.

 

[CBI]

I am a size 43-44 and own an ELC B-3 size 44. fits perfectly. If I were to go with a 40's aircrew authentic fit I would need to get a 46 but might be too large and the sleeves would be too long.

 

[AIRCRAFTMECH]

I've got a house labeled ELC B3, I'm a 42 and according to the website, that's what I bought. It's a great fit, looks good over light clothing and even looks and feels good over my A2. If I was going to wear heavy clothing under it, I Might go 44 next time, too big is Always preferable to too small! If in doubt, Size Up!

 

[Monsoon]

I think on the HPA website it said if you're gonna order a B3 or B6, go up a size. Sure, it's a 44 on the outside, but it's gonna be a bit less inside due to the fleece.

 

[s4rmark]

I'm a size 40 chest and went with a 40 regular Eastman Perry b3. to be honest I like a snug fit which it is, if you like a looser fit and maybe like to layer I would go up a size.