Its All In The Name..
The very name surplus means the items we have for sale would have been released by armies both British and Worldwide, police and Naval Units who no longer need them. Items are not always brand new and so customers should understand that what we sell is 'used'. We then define used into sections to make it easier to understand the condition of the item
So here we go..
New: Some times we receive items which have never been used, even if they are twenty or thirty years old, we will describe these as unissued and new, if there are any storage marks then they will be new with storage marks, sometimes they may even be in original wrapping but not always.
The grading will then go as follows..
Grade 1 : This will be a used item that will have been washed and worn, so will clearly show signs of use that maybe fading in places like shoulders elbows and seat, or just from repeated washing. Bobbling / pilling on certain fabrics or on places that are rubbed by use. On footwear there will be scuffs and wear to the sole along with creases across the toes. Items may have been repaired either professionally or by the soldier but the item will still be usable / wearable So in general Used but still serviceable with no damage or broken bits
Grade 2: This grade has all of the features of grade 1 but more, so more fading, more bobbling scuffs and wear, but also will have missing or broken parts, so you may need to replace buckles, eyelet, or zip etc or sew a hole / rip. Any wear will be more than a grade 1. So again in general Really Used
Grade 3: We do on occasions have items that are really quite tatty so ideal for a fancy dress, film props a mucky one off job, or for serving personal to return to stores for exchange. These items are damaged and need a repairs. Great if you have lost kit and need to hand something back in, ideal for fabric or being a zombie! or even a day mixing concrete and you don't want to spoil your own boot. There will be a major fault with a grade 3 item.
BUT....
On each item we will describe the grades a little more so please do check that you are ordering the correct grade for what you need.. unsure please just email us on sales at surplusandoutdoors.com
Smell....
All army surplus new or used has an aroma.. its a mix of lots of things that is unique to surplus items, embrace it and just give it a wash! We don't launder any used items before sale, so you may preferer to wash before wearing, but we do ask that you try on before you wash, as new items returned washed are no longer new! and cannot be refunded if not suitable.