Distinguishing Pre and Post 1975 PAVN Field Caps

The field cap worn during the 1960s and prior to liberation in 1975 was made of khaki brown cotton twill, cotton poplin,, canvas or very lightweight wool gaberdine.

In post 1975 years, field caps were worn extensively by the PAVN, having replaced the boonie hat completely.  Post war caps will be made of various reed green or dark olive fabrics including polyester and often have size stamps such as 56 inside.  Wartime caps, if the marking is legible are size stamped, if at all with 1, 2, 3.

Post war caps do not have ear flaps or a neck shade as do wartime.

Because these post 1975 caps were so widely issued, and more than 40 years have passed since the fall of Saigon, they often appear in worn out and ratty condition and are sold as wartime.

Here are some examples of post 1975 made field cap.