a couple of pilotkas

[Bill Garvy]

My best thinking tells me these pilotkas are reproductions, the first a rare VVS Red Air Force, the other an Infantry pilotka, both allegedly of World War II vintage. I don't like either of them for various reasons such as the later vintage star on the Infantry example, and the stamps, but I am posting these to hear your best thinking

[RichieC]

The VVS example may actually be legitimate, but we need to see closer and more comrehensive images of the sweatband and lining...

That metal star certainly is a curiousity. If you can measure it Bill, in MM, it would be great. I have seen this type on NKVD, NKGB everyday shoulderboards in the past...

The other, yes a 50s star, but still, it does not seem to be too modern of an example that is always trying to be passed off as "WWII"...

[Bill Garvy]

Thanks, Richie! Do you think the Infantry example to be a World War II issued pilotka with a 50's star, or is it, perhaps, a post-war example? Is the VVS example a war-time issued example, or post-war? More and better pictures to follow, as well as a measurement of the star on the VVS pilotka you requested. . . Stay tuned. . .

[RichieC]

Do you think the Infantry example to be a World War II issued pilotka with a 50's star, or is it, perhaps, a post-war example? Is the VVS example a war-time issued example, or post-war?

The same goes for the soldier's khaki example (BTW, used by all branches), needs more images of the liner and sweatband. Dimas is a "head" concerning stamps, and these pilotka in general. So let us see if he will reply concerning it.

The VVS example; I believe the blue colour was phased out after 1940.

[RichieC]

PS Bill, show how that star is attached also...

[Bill Garvy]

No problem, Richie, I should have the photos/scans by early next week. I have also asked Dimas to take a look and share his best thinking. I am usually very skeptical/critical of these things. I appreciate your experienced eye. . .

[Dimas]

I like the the ВВС pilotka. But the field looks like a post war to me. Any way we need better pictures.

[Bill Garvy]

Thank you, Dimas, more and better pictures are forthcoming!

[Willik]

My best thinking tells me these pilotkas are reproductions, the first a rare VVS Red Air Force, the other an Infantry pilotka, both allegedly of World War II vintage. I don't like either of them for various reasons such as the later vintage star on the Infantry example, and the stamps, but I am posting these to hear your best thinking

№1 Oficerskaya pilotka cap pilot RKKA shave off. 1935. The Colour of the pilotka: for command composition of air power - blue, for command composition auto-armored troopses - steel, for all rest - a khaki.

[Bill Garvy]

The star on the VVS pilotka measures 25mm. . .