Hi. I just wanted to post some detailed pics of the current Belgian woodland pattern, also known as Jigsaw Camo. Loved by some but hated by way more, this camo is unique in the world.
The white lines you see between the coloured splotches are actually misprints in the original pattern. Back in the fifties the designers noticed that the colours had shifted somewhat while "printing" the first batch, thus creating the small white lines. They decided it looked "cool" and the error is still present in today's "2000"-pattern. (true story!) Since the fifties, the design of the Jigsaw-pattern hasn't changed a lot, only the fabric. Whether you like it or not, that's up to you. In my opinion it's a very distinct and unique pattern, albeit not so effective. Only in the fall this camo provides reasonable cover in forested areas. Nevertheless I like wearing it, just as I like living in Belgium ;-)
On the pics you can see the Belgian Jigsaw-shirt (BDU-design, ripstop and surprinsingly light weight), trousers (BDU-like and with a superb cut) and parka, or "smoke vest" as we call it. The latter is not made from ripstop, is heavier and, I have to admit, is a dream to wear. Comfortable, not too warm without liner and great cut.
Not pictured is the boonie hat. Standard boonie with flag on the side.
If interested, you can find Belgian camo fairly simple on eBay. Just type in "ABL" in the search box. ABL stands for Armée Belge/Belgisch Leger (Belgian Army in French/Dutch).
Hope you enjoy the pics.
Shirt:
Shirt (detailed):
Trousers:
Trousers front:
Smoke vest:
Smoke vest: front pockets with zipper
Smoke vest: left arm pocket w/ flag:
The family:
