LC jacket choices

Flyderf · Post by **Flyderf** » Tue Nov 24, 2009 10:13 pm

What a great source this website is! I have already spent countless hours reading the various posts. The good news is I was already addicted to the gear before I signed up to be a COW member. I'm ready for my second leather jacket. Here's the question. What type of hide, and coloring would everyone recommend for LC style jacket?

I've somewhat narrowed down the choices to a US wings collectors edition, and a Wested Last Crusade. There are so many choices with the Wested. Authentic worn lambskin, authentic goat??? Chime in with suggestions. I know there are many die-hard TN fans, but that is beyond what I can spend. Trying to stay within $400.

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Tue Nov 24, 2009 10:28 pm

Well, I am fond of US Wings, and the collectors edition cowhide may be the nicest Indy jacket they make. I could not, in good conscience, tell somebody not to get it. But, since your interest is specifically in an LC jacket, I must say that the Wings jacket is more CS than LC, especially in the way it fits. Still, if you are more after a distressed leather look, this is the jacket to grab.

Now, if we go beyond US Wings, and stay within your price range, Wested might be your best option. Wested or otherwise, I have seen better results in general getting the LC look from cowhide, but according to most authorities on the jackets, the hide from the film was lambskin. So, with Wested, I would say the "Worn Look Hide" in the custom section would get you closest.

IF your budget goes up another $100, I would recommend going to Magnoli. He can do distressing that is awesome (based on pics I have seen here), and his jackets are top notch. He might be able to distress a goatskin or lambskin properly, which you're unlikely to get from anyone other than maybe TN.

nicktheguy · Post by **nicktheguy** » Tue Nov 24, 2009 10:34 pm

I happily own wested and nowak jackets - Welcome to the site and there is a lot of great information on these boards. Choose whatever speaks to you best - and best of luck in your hunt.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Tue Nov 24, 2009 10:38 pm

I agree with everything that Chewbacca Jones said based on your stated budget. I would go with either the Collector's Edition from Wings (I had one and it was terrific) or try to go to $500 and get the Magnoli (remember that shipping is included in that $495 price). I've not had a Indy from him yet, but I have one of his other jackets and it was outstanding. As a matter of fact, I sold the jacket and missed it so much, I'm buying it back.

Factor in if you can wear OTR sizes well (Wings) or if you need to go the custom route for your measurements (which would lean you toward Magnoli).

If you have a small windfall happen to you, however, and can raise your budget, I have an Nowak LC that I absolutely love and think really looks the part.

alphared6 · Post by **alphared6** » Tue Nov 24, 2009 11:29 pm

I just got a Wested horse hide LC jacket. I must say that after all I've read here about Wested I was disappointed! It's poorly cut and randomly assembled . And its size is misidentified to boot.
So ... I'm back in the market for a good SA jacket. I'll be eye balling a Raiders this time.

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 1:27 am

alphared6 wrote:I just got a Wested horse hide LC jacket. I must say that after all I've read here about Wested I was disappointed! It's poorly cut and randomly assembled . And its size is misidentified to boot.
So ... I'm back in the market for a good SA jacket. I'll be eye balling a Raiders this time.

Magnoli, my man. You won't be sorry.

crismans wrote:I have an Nowak LC that I absolutely love and think really looks the part.

I saw one on here, Han Jones' I think. I'm in love, but the price tag hurts soooo much.

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 2:31 am

Hello welcome to the club! First and for most only you can decide what is the perfect jacket! The average Joe on the street isn't going to know what kind of jacket your wearing and who it is made by.
The quest for the perfect jacket can be very expensive if your a picky person. I have a Wested LC custom order and it's nice but now I want a Tony nowak.
So now I am taking my family to southern California this February and I am going to go see Tony and have my perfect LC jacket made.
Yes I am a picky person about having a perfect jacket and I the beginning it wasn't that way. So gather all the info you can use the search button and figure out what is the perfect LC Jacket in your opinion.
Good luck my friend I hope you get your jacket soon!

CM · Post by CM » Wed Nov 25, 2009 5:05 am

I have a Wested LC - forget it! Not even close to the film version. Magnoli maybe - accurate and based on a traced, actual LC film used jacket. Or the Nowak, which looks great but is very costly.

I would personally consider a generic Indy jacket and go with a Wings or G&B myself. High quality jackets.

DO a lot more reading here (several weeks worth, maybe) and then reconsider what it is you're after. I wish I had had that option.

Post by **Holt** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 6:59 am

CM wrote:I have a Wested LC - forget it! Not even close to the film version.

what do you base this on? your old LC pattern? if so, you cant really recommend them not to get a wested LC based on your old pattern jacket, because they dont make them like that anymore.

I can say if you get a LC you wont be dissapointed. the new pattern they use is much closer to the real thing then people may think. but it needs some tweaking.

this is my jacket and really specced out. if you order, ask them for Holt pockets.

Han Jones · Post by **Han Jones** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 8:27 am

Save your money till you can get a Nowak.

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 8:34 am

You the man Hans! Your jacket collection is truely the best! But it's good you chimed in on this one because if anyone knows jackets from Tony it's you!

Flyderf · Post by **Flyderf** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 1:19 pm

Thank you everyone for the input. I'm still digging, and reading previous posts. I'm very close to a decision. If I were a patient man, I'd continue scraping and saving away and save for the Nowak jacket, but I need a leather fix now. I'm sure I will be heading down the TN path soon enough. The pictures of the US wings CE is the leather look I'm striving for. A cross between LC and CS. My eye is not trained to discern the details of screen accuracy. From the posts I've read the US Wings seems to be popular, but sizing is an issue. I already have a Wested ROTLA jacket, so I'm looking for something rugged, distressed look I can wear daily. This would go great with the Penman LC fedora I have on order.

This Indy gear is down right addictive! Off to the general gear section, I need to learn how to make my Alden boots darker.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 1:21 pm

I have to admit that Wested has increased its percentage in getting the specs you send them correct (for custom versions). My main worry with them now is the stitching. Westeds have had problems with the stitching not being of good quality (I've experienced this firsthand). If they could work out the glitches in that area, I would be glad recommending them in this price range.

Post by **Holt** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 2:35 pm

Dont get me wrong. Im NOT trying to be some spoke'sman for wested. Im not ending up like that;) Im just handing out alittle info.

the sewing thread that they use now is almost the same as the G&B sewing thread. the GB is a grade 50 and the wested is a grade 40.

I dont know how long they have been using that but the thread used on my latest goatskin jacket is very good constructed with a good thread. I had a long thread hanging out from the inner sleeve and I had to use some force to break it.

St. Dumas · Post by **St. Dumas** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 2:44 pm

I own Wested's current CS prototype (which is the LC jacket but with double stitching on the shoulders) as well as the previous Wested LC design (with the normal collar stand and and larger collar). The entire collar/collar stand/storm flap configuration and pocket placement is different. I believe the cut of the jacket is different as well. I agree with Holt that Wested's current LC design is very close to what you see on screen. With Holt's custom pockets, it'll look even more accurate.

SD

CM · Post by CM » Wed Nov 25, 2009 3:36 pm

I must say I'm encouraged by what I read here about imporved patterns and thread. I guess I'm used to seeing Wested's LC posted here which are often described as a LC/CS jacket and looks not much like either to me. I guess if you ask for special changes Wested can do a good LC. I'm not sure I could be bothered going down that path when Magnoli does all 4 variations pretty well straight up. But Holt's Wested jacket does look very nice.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 4:09 pm

Indiana Holt wrote:

the sewing thread that they use now is almost the same as the G&B sewing thread. the GB is a grade 50 and the wested is a grade 40.

I dont know how long they have been using that but the thread used on my latest goatskin jacket is very good constructed with a good thread. I had a long thread hanging out from the inner sleeve and I had to use some force to break it.

That's great to hear, Holt! I'm glad that Wested is addressing some of the issues people have had with their jackets.

I know that someone (Rundquist maybe?) was stating that it wasn't just (or necessarily) the tensile strength of the thread but also how the good the stitching is (number of stitches per inch, etc.) that determines how a jacket stays together. And I've also had problems with the lining coming apart (others too). Do you know if Wested has made some changes in this area as well?

I'm not trying to do a "bashing on Wested" post but I haven't considered using them for quite a while because of these issues. If they are addressing them, I would certainly consider buying from them again.

Texan Scott · Post by **Texan Scott** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 4:10 pm

A LC jacket in your price range: Wested authentic brown lamb or the new Novapelle (cow)hide, and it depends on how light to heavy you want the jacket to be. An extra $100 will get you into the high end jacket range.

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 4:23 pm

CM wrote:I must say I'm encouraged by what I read here about imporved patterns and thread. I guess I'm used to seeing Wested's LC posted here which are often described as a LC/CS jacket and looks not much like either to me. I guess if you ask for special changes Wested can do a good LC. I'm not sure I could be bothered going down that path when Magnoli does all 4 variations pretty well straight up. But Holt's Wested jacket does look very nice.

Just be aware that Holt's jacket is a result of his own work for specifications. knibs recently showed his LC which was a current version, and it is not the same as Holt's.
so I suppose the point is, ask for Holt's specs.
there may be up charges to changes to standard pattern according to some recent posts. check the notice in the vendor section as well.

Post by **Holt** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 4:53 pm

crismans wrote:
Indiana Holt wrote:

the sewing thread that they use now is almost the same as the G&B sewing thread. the GB is a grade 50 and the wested is a grade 40.

I dont know how long they have been using that but the thread used on my latest goatskin jacket is very good constructed with a good thread. I had a long thread hanging out from the inner sleeve and I had to use some force to break it.
That's great to hear, Holt! I'm glad that Wested is addressing some of the issues people have had with their jackets.

I know that someone (Rundquist maybe?) was stating that it wasn't just (or necessarily) the tensile strength of the thread but also how the good the stitching is (number of stitches per inch, etc.) that determines how a jacket stays together. And I've also had problems with the lining coming apart (others too). Do you know if Wested has made some changes in this area as well?

I'm not trying to do a "bashing on Wested" post but I haven't considered using them for quite a while because of these issues. If they are addressing them, I would certainly consider buying from them again.

I have no idea about the lining and stitch count per inch. I dont work with them like that. I just happen to know this about the thread grade. but like I said my goat jacket seems very well made.

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 5:49 pm

Flyderf wrote:... I need a leather fix now. The pictures of the US wings CE is the leather look I'm striving for. A cross between LC and CS. My eye is not trained to discern the details of screen accuracy. From the posts I've read the US Wings seems to be popular, but sizing is an issue. I already have a Wested ROTLA jacket, so I'm looking for something rugged, distressed look I can wear daily. This would go great with the Penman LC fedora I have on order.

There is no harm in continuing to research, but I think you found what you are seeking. Wings makes a good, real-world, daily wear jacket, and you seem to favor it. Since you admit that you can't pick out the small accuracy details, this also makes the Wings ideal. You won't miss what you aren't looking for.

Don't worry about the size. Use the sizing guide on the Wings website. If it turns out wrong, they will exchange the jacket. I love me CE Wings, and I'm sure you will, too.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 5:50 pm

Thanks for the reply, Holt. It sounds like Wested is moving in the right direction, at least.

If you're already leaning toward the Wings CE, you can't go wrong with it. The leather is exceptional and it does carry the Indy vibe in spades. Plus, with the COW $100 discount, it is an exceptional deal. Just be sure to mention that you're a member here when ordering to get the discount.

Flyderf · Post by **Flyderf** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 7:26 pm

Thank you everyone for the input. Today I ordered the Wings CE. I mentioned the COW member, and they did give the additional $100 off. They were very helpful going over jacket dimensions and details over the phone. An exceptional deal all around. I look at it this way. I'm already addicted to leather jackets, and I know 2 will never do. When I reach the aficionado level of fine SA jackets, the TN will be next on my list. You guys have been an invaluable source of information. I spent over 8 hours in the last few days just reading posts on the Wings CE jacket. The pictures posted were the deciding factor. I will be sure to take some when mine arrives.

Cheers.

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 7:55 pm

You should be happy with the Wings jacket. They are well made, good sturdy lining, and should last a few lifetimes.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Wed Nov 25, 2009 10:39 pm

Good choice and I'm sure you'll love it. Be sure to post pics.

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 12:49 am

Good news glad to hear you pulled the trigger! $\:D/$ You received a awesome deal with $200 off and free shipping!

(hopefully)
I think you made the right decision on the jacket and you did your homework it sounds like.
Also yes it looks like the Tony bug has already bitten you. Be careful this is going to get expensive.

Well enjoy post pics when you get your new jacket

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 11:01 am

Indyzane wrote: it looks like the Tony bug has already bitten you. Be careful this is going to get expensive.

Nah, you just need the right treatment. I find 3 parts antibotic ointment to 2 parts Picard's works fairly well.

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 11:29 am

Chewbacca Jones wrote:
Indyzane wrote: it looks like the Tony bug has already bitten you. Be careful this is going to get expensive.

Nah, you just need the right treatment. I find 3 parts antibotic ointment to 2 parts Picard's works fairly well.

Flyderf · Post by **Flyderf** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 12:16 pm

Speaking of Pecards, I have a 25 year old Avirex A2 that needs a bit of TLC. On Pecards website there are a variety of products. Is it a gel/paste or oil that will work best on cowhide???

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 12:52 pm

Flyderf wrote:Speaking of Pecards, I have a 25 year old Avirex A2 that needs a bit of TLC. On Pecards website there are a variety of products. Is it a gel/paste or oil that will work best on cowhide???

Um-mm, I don't know pecards that well but from what I have learned the leather dressing is probably what you want.
Know what I would call pecards and ask them. I have talked to the re-guarding a concern on one of my jackets and they were really nice and helpful!

CM · Post by CM » Thu Nov 26, 2009 3:26 pm

RCSignals wrote:
CM wrote:I must say I'm encouraged by what I read here about imporved patterns and thread. I guess I'm used to seeing Wested's LC posted here which are often described as a LC/CS jacket and looks not much like either to me. I guess if you ask for special changes Wested can do a good LC. I'm not sure I could be bothered going down that path when Magnoli does all 4 variations pretty well straight up. But Holt's Wested jacket does look very nice.
Just be aware that Holt's jacket is a result of his own work for specifications. knibs recently showed his LC which was a current version, and it is not the same as Holt's.
so I suppose the point is, ask for Holt's specs.
there may be up charges to changes to standard pattern according to some recent posts. check the notice in the vendor section as well.

Actually, Holt's point is that the standard LC is pretty accurate. All we need do is specify his pockets for the total look. And yes, I know Holt's jacket is based on his own specs. I personally would never order Wested again. Partly because after getting my G&B, that itch has been scratched.

Post by **Holt** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 3:32 pm

well, it takes more then just my pockets. and placements. the collar needs tweaking, the backpanel, the sleeves, the stormflap. and more.

but this is only if your a SA nut like me.

the pockets only will do alot for the look. but IMO it needs more tweaking then that.

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 4:11 pm

Indiana Holt wrote:well, it takes more then just my pockets. and placements. the collar needs tweaking, the backpanel, the sleeves, the stormflap. and more.

but this is only if your a SA nut like me.

the pockets only will do alot for the look. but IMO it needs more tweaking then that.

Thanks Holt, that's what I meant.
To see what Holt means, as I said, look at knibs recent Wested LC

Have you ordered your next 'specced' LC yet Holt?

Post by **Holt** » Thu Nov 26, 2009 5:33 pm

nope, not yet. I had to put it on hold. I had a bill that needed some attention..

next time.

but I have a Holt raiders on the way.

CM · Post by CM » Thu Nov 26, 2009 7:30 pm

Indiana Holt wrote:well, it takes more then just my pockets. and placements. the collar needs tweaking, the backpanel, the sleeves, the stormflap. and more.

but this is only if your a SA nut like me.

the pockets only will do alot for the look. but IMO it needs more tweaking then that.

Huh?

So the standard Wested needs lots of tweaking to look like the film one. Kind of my original point, I guess. I don't think those are minor SA obsessive details - they make the jacket look like the film one which is kidn of the point

Chewbacca Jones · Post by **Chewbacca Jones** » Fri Nov 27, 2009 7:12 pm

Indyzane wrote:
Flyderf wrote:Speaking of Pecards, I have a 25 year old Avirex A2 that needs a bit of TLC. On Pecards website there are a variety of products. Is it a gel/paste or oil that will work best on cowhide???
Um-mm, I don't know pecards that well but from what I have learned the leather dressing is probably what you want.
Know what I would call pecards and ask them. I have talked to the re-guarding a concern on one of my jackets and they were really nice and helpful!

Picard's website has a page outlining what's best for which types of leather. However, if memory serves me right, the regular dressing is what you want for cowhide jackets and whips. The oils and lotions are for the less porous, smoother hides likes lambskin.

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Fri Nov 27, 2009 7:15 pm

there is a post here in the gear care section explaining Pecards as well

viewtopic.php?f=5&t=7211

Flyderf · Post by **Flyderf** » Fri Nov 27, 2009 10:27 pm

Funny you should post that link, I found it earlier today. Thank you for the link. I printed out that reference. I'm going to call Pecards directly to see what they say. It's amazing how well that cowhide has held up. It wasn't babied at all, and still looks good.

Gringo · Post by **Gringo** » Sun Nov 29, 2009 7:09 pm

Congrats Flyderf! cant wait to see the pics. I picked up a US Wings Goat second hand that was never broken in, now it has become my favorite everyday wear. Built tough. Hope you are happy.

Take care,
Gringo

backstagejack · Post by **backstagejack** » Tue Mar 09, 2010 3:37 pm

Since I can't afford a Nowak any time soon....buying a good Strain whip is as expensive as I'm going to get on gear...

I'm leaning towards either a LC Wested or the US wings CE. Now that I read about the discount, the CE seems even more tempting, I've only heard good things about it. I only lean towards Wested as they were the originals (more or less) and its a little more SA then the CE.

I love my Wested Raiders that I got 10 years ago, although the stitching in the left pocket is coming out and the sleeves are a little short.

If I ordered from Wested, do I just give them my measurements and tag on that I want "The Holt Specs" for the Custom LC?? I'm not talking just pockets, I'd personally want the whole package to get as SA as possible.

And does getting "the Holt Specs" cost more?

And how non-SA is the CE?

Heyjude7 · Post by **Heyjude7** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 1:30 pm

Hey all! i know i havent posted in a while ( im out at sea! ) but i just recieved a LC Wested washed goat from a member on here..i am a die hard Nowak fan. but i gotta say Wested has come along way since a few years back! I love the jacket! fits me like it was made for me and the stitching and leather is perfect! i decided to give the original maker one more chance and it has changed my mind on the Wested! It is a great jacket! I would tell anyone to start off with a Wested and get the right specs and you wont be disappointed! I wear military uniforms everyday out here and it fits like i can "officially" wear it with my uniform! Lord knows i love my TN raiders in 747 but this LC washed goat wested is it for me on the CS/LC look! This jacket will go to my son when hes older!
i hope you find the right jacket!

Jude

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 2:35 pm

Good to see you Jude.
Glad to hear you found a Wested to suit you. Ironic you had to get it second hand.
Send some pics if you can of you wearing it in uniform.

BendingOak · Post by **BendingOak** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 2:43 pm

I will always try and work from the top of the ladder down when it comes to items like this. You might save a 100 or so but will you end up spending more because you weren't 100% happy with that first jacket. I agree with Hans. Be patient, do your home work and buy ounce.

jnicktem · Post by **jnicktem** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 2:55 pm

BendingOak wrote:I will always try and work from the top of the ladder down when it comes to items like this. You might save a 100 or so but will you end up spending more because you weren't 100% happy with that first jacket. I agree with Hans. Be patient, do your home work and buy ounce.

That is sound advice. I regret having bought so many cheaper items (including a Dorfman!

) because all they did was waste my money. Now I am only going to buy quality. And quality comes at a price. But in the end I am going to save money when I figure out how many of the cheaper items I would have went through in the lifetime of one quality item.

Post by **Holt** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 4:28 pm

Heyjude7 wrote:Hey all! i know i havent posted in a while ( im out at sea! ) but i just recieved a LC Wested washed goat from a member on here..i am a die hard Nowak fan. but i gotta say Wested has come along way since a few years back! I love the jacket! fits me like it was made for me and the stitching and leather is perfect! i decided to give the original maker one more chance and it has changed my mind on the Wested! It is a great jacket! I would tell anyone to start off with a Wested and get the right specs and you wont be disappointed! I wear military uniforms everyday out here and it fits like i can "officially" wear it with my uniform! Lord knows i love my TN raiders in 747 but this LC washed goat wested is it for me on the CS/LC look! This jacket will go to my son when hes older!
i hope you find the right jacket!
Jude

PICS!!

backstagejack · Post by **backstagejack** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 6:41 pm

Indiana Holt wrote:
CM wrote:I have a Wested LC - forget it! Not even close to the film version.
what do you base this on? your old LC pattern? if so, you cant really recommend them not to get a wested LC based on your old pattern jacket, because they dont make them like that anymore.

I can say if you get a LC you wont be dissapointed. the new pattern they use is much closer to the real thing then people may think. but it needs some tweaking.

this is my jacket and really specced out. if you order, ask them for Holt pockets.

Is the collar specced out? I really want my LC to do that, but your jacket is the only Wested LC I've seen that does that.

I own a late 90's Wested Raiders and my collar is completely flat and clowned out.

Can I just say Holt Specs and get the whole package? Or only pockets from them?

Post by **Holt** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 7:18 pm

apperantly they dont have my Holt specs anymore. last time someone asked for the Holt LC specs they didnt find them...

anyways, it doesnt matter becuz I dont have my LC spec sheet I ordered that jacket in...

I now have a whole new set of LC specs. pluss some specs from the orignal LC jacket. I still have not used the new spec sheet. I kinda want to be the first one. my next jacket will be a LC.

Gringo · Post by **Gringo** » Sat Mar 13, 2010 7:38 pm

Even though I will always be a Raiders man(because of my age), I love my OTR LC washed Goat jacket the most. The cut, the collar, the leather is great!

backstagejack · Post by **backstagejack** » Sun Mar 14, 2010 1:19 am

Indiana Holt wrote:apperantly they dont have my Holt specs anymore. last time someone asked for the Holt LC specs they didnt find them...

anyways, it doesnt matter becuz I dont have my LC spec sheet I ordered that jacket in...

I now have a whole new set of LC specs. pluss some specs from the orignal LC jacket. I still have not used the new spec sheet. I kinda want to be the first one. my next jacket will be a LC.

Understandable......so...does the collar atleast do the swoop on the current wested LC cut? Thats really what I want the most.

Post by **Holt** » Sun Mar 14, 2010 7:24 am

i dont know.