I stumbled across this thread and couldn't resist. I concur with Michaelson et al. The AB is built to take it. I've only had mine a short time, but it's already been put to the test. Picture this: tearing down the road in a WW II jeep in a hail storm with wind rain and hail coming at you from three ...

I would also suggest the historic A-2 horsehide jacket at flightsuits.com. Not cheap, but is historically correct and will last forever.

I ordered mine back in April and am really looking forward to it!