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Buzz Rickson Flight Jackets Fit (MA-1, L-2)

b-ewing

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Hi,

Looking to pick up a Buzz Rickson flight jacket, either the MA-1 or the L-2 (preferrably the L-2A).

Anyone have one of these or tried them on and can help out with fitting. Seems like they run huge: sz 42 L-2a has a 52" chest???

I'm 5'10", 180 lbs, wear a sz 42 in vintage leather jackets (Langlitz, Schott, etc.), a size 40 in Filson. My shirt size is 15.5 34-35.

I would be wearing it with maybe a flannel underneath; not major layering... Want as sleek as possible.

Seems like the MA1 William Gibson model, or anything in a 38 Long would be good.

Any pointers? Just purchased a 42 L-2A, and now I'm sure it's gonna be huge on me... kinda freaking out!!! (if anyone is looking to size up to a 42, lemme know. trade?)

Thx for any insight, and Cheers.
 

Get Smart

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I've tried the Buzz MA-1 and thought it fit very true to size. I have a 38 chest and wore the 38 and it was a good snug fit, def not loose.

on a related tangent, for a first type MA-1 there is also the Alpha "authentic" MA-1, which I have in grey, and imo I like more than the Buzz model. Alpha is a much heavier/sturdier jacket with thick wool ribbing on the sleeves and waist. Also it retails for about $250ish so much more affordable. But if it must be the Buzz jacket, it's good, just not sure it's worth the $600+ price tag attached to it imo
 

b-ewing

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thx, guy. doesn't have to be a BR, but I'm really into the details of these... I mean, Crown zippers?? Effin Rad!

Would you say the length worked for you? If you wear a 38 chest, what about the arms and body length? (you don't look as pudgy as me, how tall are you?!)

BTW lookin sharp, my man! Something about a Fred Perry vest. always have had at least four or five polos in my closet, since the early Rude Boy- Oi! days of the mid-90s. Don't wear 'em much, but can't part with 'em either...

Thx for your input!
 

Scoobersti

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Get Smart- How is the sizing on the Alpha Authentic MA-1? Thanks.
 

jslade

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I just purchased a Buzz Rickson MA-1 flight jacket in a size 38, but found it a touch too large for me as a size 39" chest. It's extremely comfortable, and the quality is unquestionable outstanding, but I think it would be better for a 40". I'd suggest sizing down one for a slim (but still comfortable) fit, and going TTS if you're looking for a more accommodating fit.

I'll be putting my MA-1 up for sale on B&S sometime soon, but if anybody wants dibs on it, I have a BNWT, never worn outside BR MA-1 for sale.
redface.gif
 

kiya

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Originally Posted by jslade
I just purchased a Buzz Rickson MA-1 flight jacket in a size 38, but found it a touch too large for me as a size 39" chest. It's extremely comfortable, and the quality is unquestionable outstanding, but I think it would be better for a 40". I'd suggest sizing down one for a slim (but still comfortable) fit, and going TTS if you're looking for a more accommodating fit.

I'll be putting my MA-1 up for sale on B&S sometime soon, but if anybody wants dibs on it, I have a BNWT, never worn outside BR MA-1 for sale.
redface.gif


Don't sell it, just exchange it for a size 36 which will probably fit you perfectly.
 

Get Smart

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Originally Posted by b-ewing
Would you say the length worked for you? If you wear a 38 chest, what about the arms and body length? (you don't look as pudgy as me, how tall are you?!)

i'm 5'10 and found the length and sleeve just right. I'd say the lengths would work for someone up to 6', taller than that and it might look tad shrunken, shorter than 5'8 and i'd say it'd run too long.


Originally Posted by Scoobersti
Get Smart- How is the sizing on the Alpha Authentic MA-1? Thanks.

Mine is a small (pretty much same overall fit as a normal Alpha MA-1), and it fits like a 38, probably could fit a 40 real snug. I do notice the "authentic" MA-1 is about an inch or so longer in body length than my regular MA-1. It's a very heavy/bulky jacket, much moreso than the regular MA-1, but it has a surprisingly "slim" fit if a MA-1 can ever be called that, meaning it's not so puffy that you look like the Michelin Man
 

b-ewing

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Kiya,

I know Selfedge only sells the William Gibson MA-1 in BR flights, but any insight from you?

At 5'10" 180lb, with a 42" chest, what size would you generally suggest I order (for both the regular cut L-2 & MA-1s, and the slimmer William Gibson MA-1)? Up here in Seatle, I'm only left to the internet to find one of these- no place to try them on locally... I really appreciate everyone's input.
 

Scoobersti

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Thanks for the info Get Smart. I appreciate it.

Sorry for thread jacking this a little bit b-ewing.
 

kiya

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Originally Posted by b-ewing
Kiya,

I know Selfedge only sells the William Gibson MA-1 in BR flights, but any insight from you?

At 5'10" 180lb, with a 42" chest, what size would you generally suggest I order (for both the regular cut L-2 & MA-1s, and the slimmer William Gibson MA-1)? Up here in Seatle, I'm only left to the internet to find one of these- no place to try them on locally... I really appreciate everyone's input.


I would go for a 38 in the WG MA-1. We have two left in that size.
Worse case scenario if it's too small you can just exchange up for a 40.
 

b-ewing

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In short, my size L-2A that I just picked up (and is currently in transit to my house) is going to be wayyy too big for me...

If anyone is interested in a 42R Buzz Rickson L-2A (reported to be in like new condition), I'll offload it for $300 shipped. OR if you want to swap for a 38L or a 40, I'm open to that too?
(PM me!)
 

GeorgeC

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Reviving old thread here but would love to see what people think of the fit of the Buzz x Gibson Ma-1? 40 = L ? or 42 = L? Thanks!
 

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