It’s common knowledge that the Army issues good equipment, and one that many are interested in right now is the sleeping bag. Throughout the years there have been many different types of sleeping bags, and some migth be considered superior, the wool sleeping bag being one of the most common issues.
Something that you will need to remember regarding those times is that the sleeping bag was considered part of the uniform, and as such it was well taken care of. There were a few problems with these old army sleeping bags of course, one of which was the fact that if it became wet it would take hours or even days to get it dry again. As with any Army issue product it was discontinued, particularly because of the moisture issue, but it wasn’t forgotten.
Though a wool sleeping bag, is not rated for arctic temperatures, it will serve to get you through the night, even in some of the more disagreeable weather. At the very least it will keep you from catching a cold or dying on pneumonia whether you are on the battlefield or on a camping trip, and you will have to make sure that it can keep you safe from all the elements.
That is of course, one of the major reasons that many will still look for old sleeping bags. Though they are hard to find online, they can still be found in virtually any Army surplus store.
As sleeping bags evolved over the years they finally became rated for use in the arctic, though to be honest there are not many military missions that take place in the arctic. while wool was once king, it has been replaced with thinsulate, and one of the greatest features these bags have now is the fact that they are waterproof. This ensures a level of reliability and safety never before seen in sleeping bags, and it sets them apart from most sleeping bags on store shelves right now.
In any case, though they are old, these bags continue to be useful, and today’s world certainly calls for them. While they are warm, the are also superior to many other bags on the market. So basically, if you are planning a camping trip, no matter how long you’re planning to be out, you should most definitely go to an army surplus store and see what is available. There are many different models and at most stores you will have your pick such as M1949 sleeping bags.