The PCU (Protective Combat Uniform) is a scalable all weather clothing system meant to accommodate a wide range of inclement weather conditions. The Level 5 parts of the PCU are the most versatile layers and are meant to be nearly general purpose. While the Level 5 softshells are water resistant, they are not impermeable since they are intended to allow the wearer some ventilation (“breathe”) for comfort. This breathability also allows them to be dried quickly, especially when body heat is involved to encourage evaporation. [1]
For more information on the PCU system: https://www.itstactical.com/gearcom/apparel/comprehensive-guide-protective-combat-uniform/
Orc Industries:
Orc Industries was the original manufacturer for the PCU system. The PCU L5 is made from EPIC fabric from NEXTEC has water repellent DWR treatment. [2]
Earlier Jacket:
This earlier PCU L5 softshell jacket is part of an Early GWOT West Coast SEAL grouping. There is no way to stow the hood on this example.
Tag:
Earlier jackets have a black “Queen Anne’s Revenge” (QAR) tag, named after the skeleton figure at the top that was supposedly the pirate Blackbeard’s symbol:
Arm Pockets:
Inside:
Earlier Trousers:
These trousers were found together with the earlier Orc PCU L5 Jacket shown above.
Tags:
Same type of QAR tag as earlier jacket.
Ankles:
Zipper Fly:
Cargo Pockets:
Later Jacket:
Later Orc PCU L5 jackets have a hood compartment in the collar and elbow reinforcement material, both of which the earlier versions do not have. These changes were made some time between January 2004 and April 2006. [2]
Tag:
Later style tag.
Inside:
Arm Pockets:
Darker velcro contrasts with Alpha Green (grey) color.
Hood:
Hood can be stowed into collar, unlike the earlier example shown above.
Cuffs:
Zipper:
Zipper is rubberized.
Usage Photos:
US Army Rangers:
USAF Pararescue:
Patagonia:
The Patagonia design features a more modern cut that is similar to civilian ourdoors clothing. Specifically, Patagonia’s PCU was based on their commercial MARS (Military Advanced Regulator System) line. The arm pockets are lower profile and close with zippers instead of flaps like the Orc example. The color of the zippers and velcro now matches the base fabric color. Patagonia has the current (as of 2018) government contract for PCUs, also available in camouflage patterns like AOR1 and 2 and Multicam [6] (Catalog formerly available at https://www.gsaadvantage.gov/ref_text/47QSWA19D0056/0VBSVU.3R25UL_47QSWA19D0056_LOSTARROWINC47QSWA19D0056.PDF).
For more information about Patagonia PCU development: https://soldiersystems.net/2018/05/16/the-lost-arrow-project-by-patagonia-military-alpine-recce-system-program-history/
Jacket 1:
Arm pockets:
Tags have 2007 date.
Jacket 2:
Same as Jacket 1, but 2006 date.
Trousers:
2007 date on tags.
Metal snaps:
Ankle Cuffs:
Side waist adjustments use a combination of velcro and zippers:
Elastic Suspenders:
