Show us your US Wings Antique COW Hero jackets

St. Dumas · Post by **St. Dumas** » Wed Nov 17, 2010 1:08 pm

Finally! Someone else who believes that an Indy jacket's colour, texture and scale cannot be properly brought out by natural light, artificial light, or with photo reference to calipers or measuring tape, but rather posing next to a pastel beach ball.

singsingjohnny · Post by **singsingjohnny** » Mon Jan 10, 2011 9:38 am

Guys, nice jackets! I notice that many have snaps, is this something that Wings will do or did you put them on yourselves? Also, is Sarge still honoring a COW jacket discount on these?

Thanks!

Mark

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Mon Jan 10, 2011 10:11 am

Hey Mark. could you show us a picture of the back?

gladd96 · Post by **gladd96** » Mon Jan 10, 2011 10:26 am

singsingjohnny wrote:Guys, nice jackets! I notice that many have snaps, is this something that Wings will do or did you put them on yourselves? Also, is Sarge still honoring a COW jacket discount on these?

Thanks!

Mark

The original specs for the Hero included the snaps on the storm flap. I know Sarge made it an option to have this made without the snaps for anyone that wanted a more Raiders look. The current product picture shows a jacket without snaps. Not sure what to make of that but it's certainly possible they changed the standard to not include the snaps though I doubt it. Having the snaps put on is a fairly simple procedure.

I remember Sarge saying he would offer this to COW @ the $200 price for the year- not sure if he meant until 2011 or a full year from when these were introduced.

What size are you after? I'm contemplating selling mine and it's a Large Long.

singsingjohnny · Post by **singsingjohnny** » Mon Jan 10, 2011 10:57 am

Sadly, I wear an XXL long, at least with this coat...I want it to be roomy, with plenty of layering room in it, thanks though!

Cool, thanks for the info as well. I'll email Sarge tonight, ask about the snaps and the possible discount...

Mark Raats · Post by **Mark Raats** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 5:17 am

Indiana Holt wrote:Hey Mark. could you show us a picture of the back?

Sure thing Holt. Here are two straight views shot in natural light…

In this back view you can see two distinct patches of discolouration in the leather - one on the right-hand shoulder above the seam and the larger patch right at the bottom of the jacket. Normally, this kind of defect would have driven me nuts but in this jacket's case, it actually looks even more worn and weathered than it actually is. The bottom edge of the jacket looks like its warped but its because its resting up on the flaps of the two back pockets on my fatigue trousers.

The front view from square on.

Kind regards

MARK

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 8:42 am

I am absolutely in awe about how good this jacket looks on you. Nobody wears this jacket as you do. That jacket IS an Indiana jones jacket. never let it go!

and thanks for posting these

Hollowpond · Post by **Hollowpond** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 9:02 am

I wholeheartedly agree with Holt! If my antique cow had of looked as nice on me as it does on you, I NEVER would sold it!

Travis

RayROnline · Post by **RayROnline** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 5:53 pm

Weston wrote:I took a few Indy jacket pics today. Here's a couple updated shots of mine.

These shots don't show off the leather like Scott's do, but should show how it looks when you get a good fit. When I find something I don't like about it, I'll let you know. You could be waiting a while!

Weston

You look great here...AGAIN. lol
I've seen some antique cow in this post that seem much darker than this. Mine looks just about like yours. Not very shiny. I felt it gave it a worn in look while still new. And I must say I love mine. (pics comparing it to my Imported Lamb is another thread). One thing I finally broke down and did was rub it all down with Mink Oil. I was hesitant to protect it too much (affecting the natural aging) but after trying it on the inside of one of the straps, went for it. It darkened it just barely and added a bit more shine...but nothing like the antique lamb finish. My Large fits like it was custom made.

Left is Imported Lamb, right is US made Antique Cow...before Mink Oil.

UPDATE: When this was posted I didn't realize there were 2 different jackets known as Antique Cow and "Hero" Antique Cow. The one on the right is NOT the "Hero" version. Sorry for the confusion. However, one is on the way =)

Charlie · Post by **Charlie** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 6:18 pm

KramStaar wrote:Sure thing Holt. Here are two straight views shot in natural light…

Mark, that jacket looks incredible! I really need to order one of these soon... It's been on my list for a while, I just haven't gotten around to it. Thanks for posting the photos!

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 6:25 pm

Hey Charlie. great to see around these parts

Cassidy · Post by **Cassidy** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 6:33 pm

@KramStaar - that is a thing of beauty. I really like it and look forward to hopefully getting one some day. It looks incredible!

Mark Raats · Post by **Mark Raats** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 8:12 pm

That's a real beauty mate!

Indiana Holt wrote:I am absolutely in awe about how good this jacket looks on you. Nobody wears this jacket as you do. That jacket IS an Indiana jones jacket. never let it go!

and thanks for posting these

I'm glad my jacket seems to work for the eagle-eye aficionados here but I have to say that every person in this thread (and other Wings threads) have shown how good these jackets can really be. Holt mate, when I was told about the possibility of acquiring a Wings jacket, the first thing I did was consult the threads and it was because of pictures of you, Weston, Scot2525 and of course Christian in your jackets that made me feel comfortable with the decision to get one.

You guys set the bar and the rest of us are just wanting to see if we can play in your sandbox.

Michael I know your's is not a Wings but as you know I've always enjoyed the natural and easy way you carry off your gear. In all honesty, it was seeing how relaxed you and the other guys are in your jackets that made me realise that there is more to an Indy jacket than simply purchasing an item made of leather..

Kind regards and thanks

MARK

Charlie · Post by **Charlie** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 8:59 pm

Indiana Holt wrote:Hey Charlie. great to see around these parts

I've been lurking here more and more lately. Getting a good jacket is an itch I've been meaning to scratch for a while now. Seeing all these Wings jackets is making it harder to resist, especially at the price. But I still have a ton of notes you've sent me over the years to consider too... Decisions, decisions.

Weston · Post by **Weston** » Sun Jan 16, 2011 9:30 pm

KramStaar wrote:
You guys set the bar and the rest of us are just wanting to see if we can play in your sandbox.

Kind regards and thanks

MARK

Mark, I'm glad any of our posts helped you find a jacket that suits you like that! It really does look amazing. I probably wear my Hero jacket more often than any other jacket I own.

Weston

Indydawg · Post by **Indydawg** » Mon Jan 17, 2011 7:19 pm

I'm glad my jacket seems to work for the eagle-eye aficionados here but I have to say that every person in this thread (and other Wings threads) have shown how good these jackets can really be. Holt mate, when I was told about the possibility of acquiring a Wings jacket, the first thing I did was consult the threads and it was because of pictures of you, Weston, Scot2525 and of course Christian in your jackets that made me feel comfortable with the decision to get one.

You guys set the bar and the rest of us are just wanting to see if we can play in your sandbox

Awwww, shucks...'twernt nothin'!

Seriously, though...I am just GLAD to have played a part in making it happen for you, Mark! Holt's right, dude...you have absolutely made that jacket your own....an extension of the man livin' the adventure!

That's my sandbox....out there...livin' the adventure!!

Cheers!
Indydawg

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Fri Jan 21, 2011 9:42 pm

Here is mine after wearing it almost non stop. it really is the perfect fall/winter jacket. perfect for layering. I love it.

non SA only one tough real world jacket cut in Indy style.

RayROnline · Post by **RayROnline** » Fri Jan 21, 2011 10:18 pm

Indiana Holt wrote:Here is mine after wearing it almost non stop. it really is the perfect fall/winter jacket. perfect for layering. I love it.

non SA only one tough real world jacket cut in Indy style.

Looks great, Holt. Is that the color it came? Or, is it a trick of the lighting? (mine isn't that dark or reddish-brown) Either way, very nice =)

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Sat Jan 22, 2011 7:42 am

yeah, that is abuot the color.

steerpike · Post by **steerpike** » Sat Jan 22, 2011 2:34 pm

Indiana Holt wrote:Here is mine after wearing it almost non stop. it really is the perfect fall/winter jacket. perfect for layering. I love it.

non SA only one tough real world jacket cut in Indy style.

Holt, I quote every single word! I love mine too, perfect for winter, really, in fact is the only jacket I'm using.

Post by **Dr. Nebraska S.** » Wed Mar 02, 2011 7:02 pm

I'm pleased to say that thanks to a surprise from my wife, I just received one of these Antique Cowhide Hero Jackets last night! $\:D/$ I'll post photos soon!

Best wishes,
NS

Weston · Post by **Weston** » Wed Mar 02, 2011 7:36 pm

Nebraska Schulte wrote:I'm pleased to say that thanks to a surprise from my wife, I just received one of these Antique Cowhide Hero Jackets last night! $\:D/$ I'll post photos soon!

Best wishes,
NS

I got mine the same way. I'm really looking forward to seeing it!

Weston

Mark Raats · Post by **Mark Raats** » Wed Mar 02, 2011 9:51 pm

Nebraska Schulte wrote:I'm pleased to say that thanks to a surprise from my wife, I just received one of these Antique Cowhide Hero Jackets last night! $\:D/$ I'll post photos soon!

Best wishes,
NS

Likewise… Lookin' forward to seeing what it looks like mate..

Kind regards

MARK

RayROnline · Post by **RayROnline** » Wed Mar 02, 2011 9:56 pm

KramStaar wrote:
Nebraska Schulte wrote:I'm pleased to say that thanks to a surprise from my wife, I just received one of these Antique Cowhide Hero Jackets last night! $\:D/$ I'll post photos soon!

Best wishes,
NS
Likewise… Lookin' forward to seeing what it looks like mate..

Kind regards

MARK

Me, too! Me, too! I'm curious about the snaps...

Post by **Dr. Nebraska S.** » Thu Mar 03, 2011 1:01 am

As much as I love my G&B Expedition, I've been curious about a jacket that would show some distressing sooner. Plus, growing up on a cattle ranch, I always wanted something in cowhide, too. When I saw the Wings antique cowhide Hero jacket on sale, I mentioned it to my wife as a possibility for a more form fitting jacket after losing weight. It would also be a bit different style, with (as Holt put it so well) more of a LC/CS vibe, too.

Just last night, a package from US Wings arrived. She took a chance and ordered it in a Large. And... it fits!

I'm fine with the sleeves not being extra long, and I have the Expedition for the baggier Indy jacket look. I really like this leather--it's got great character! No storm-flap snaps were included on this one, and so I'll try and see if I can get some antique brass snaps somewhere (any suggestions are welcome--I'll have to see if US Wings has access to some). The leather is a lot thinner than I expected, so it seems to have good drape.

I wouldn't trade my Expo for anything--it's the jacket I have and will continue to depend on to withstand anything. But I'm really liking the look, feel, and form-fitting aspect of this new Wings jacket! I think this will become my go-to for everyday and date nights, etc, while still offering more strength than a lambskin jacket would. This jacket is a great bargain and a great looking jacket! I'll let you know more about it as time goes on, and I'll try and get some outside photos sometime soon.

Best wishes,
NS

Joeyeah_right · Post by **Joeyeah_right** » Thu Mar 03, 2011 2:41 am

That jacket looks great on you!
Your wife chose wisely!

Joe

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Thu Mar 03, 2011 5:52 am

again as I have said in the pm's Luke. congrats on the weight loss. yo look really good. nice tan too

and the jacket looks awesome on you. I'm very happy for you my good friend.

Mark Raats · Post by **Mark Raats** » Thu Mar 03, 2011 6:02 am

Indiana Holt wrote:again as I have said in the pm's Luke. congrats on the weight loss. yo look really good. nice tan too and the jacket looks awesome on you. I'm very happy for you my good friend.

Cudos on the weight loss and bravo on the new jacket mate…
Your wife did a very good thing here and I know you'll get a lot of robust wear out of this puppy..

Many thanks for sharing

Kind regards

MARK

Post by **Michaelson** » Thu Mar 03, 2011 8:43 am

Nebraska Schulte wrote: No storm-flap snaps were included on this one, and so I'll try and see if I can get some antique brass snaps somewhere (any suggestions are welcome--I'll have to see if US Wings has access to some).

If your local Wal-Mart hasn't completely gutted their craft section, you used to be able to get them there, NB.

LOOKS GREAT!

Regards! Michaelson

Post by **Dr. Nebraska S.** » Thu Mar 03, 2011 3:08 pm

Joe, Eric, MARK, and Michaelson: thank you kindly!

Eric and MARK: the photos of your jackets were particularly convincing to my wife and I.

Thanks for the advice on the snaps. I just heard back from Myke at US Wings, and it sounds like he'll be mailing me some snaps right away. Good customer service! I'll be all set. Thank you!

Once the sun returns to SoCal, I'll try and get some outdoor photos.

Best wishes,
NS

Canyon · Post by **Canyon** » Fri Mar 04, 2011 6:37 pm

Nebraska, sounds like you're doing really well! Kudos to you, sir!

I love your new jacket. It's absolutely gorgeous!

Mitch LaRue · Post by **Mitch LaRue** » Sat Mar 05, 2011 10:45 am

Yep, absolutely have to agree, Nebraska...
the jacket looks really GREAT... but YOU sir, are looking fantastic IN it!

Weston · Post by **Weston** » Sat Mar 05, 2011 12:36 pm

That looks great Nebraska! I'm glad you got such a great fit. I agree with your thoughts on the quailities of the leather, and the Hero jacket is my go to jacket as well. Congrats!

Weston

RayROnline · Post by **RayROnline** » Sat Mar 05, 2011 2:20 pm

Do'h I just realized there is a difference in the Antique Cow Jacket and the "Hero" Antique Cow jacket.

So, I went to the WINGS web page to check it out and saw the sale price today is $195! I was so shocked that I ordered one. Next time I post, I hope to be able to have details & pics...Its gonna be hard to beat my U. S. made Antique Cow (which I didn't even see offered now), but I really like what I see here =)

Weston · Post by **Weston** » Sat Mar 05, 2011 5:14 pm

I just checked the website and the US antique cow is still available. I'm looking forward to seeing your Hero jacket when it arrives!

Weston

Post by **Dr. Nebraska S.** » Sun Mar 06, 2011 2:24 am

Canyon, Mitch, and Weston: thank you!

RayROnline: please be sure to post photos if you get one!

Now that the sun came back, here are a couple of photos outside (with my Wings WWII Aviators). Sorry about the shadows--hence the two front photos:

Best wishes,
Nebraska Schulte

Mark Raats · Post by **Mark Raats** » Sun Mar 06, 2011 4:18 am

A good solid jacket and an even more solid fit mate…

...this will last you for ages!

Cheers for sharing

Best

MARK

Mitch LaRue · Post by **Mitch LaRue** » Sun Mar 06, 2011 9:15 am

I've gotta say, I'm just LOVING the way the texture of that leather looks in these shots from NS... VERY nice!

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Sun Mar 06, 2011 9:34 am

that look extremely well on you my friend.

Kaplan · Post by **Kaplan** » Sun Mar 06, 2011 12:36 pm

That leather in a US made legend would be really awesome. The Hero cut does look very comfortable though.

scot2525 · Post by **scot2525** » Sun Mar 06, 2011 5:10 pm

Kaplan wrote:That leather in a US made legend would be really awesome. The Hero cut does look very comfortable though.

I couldn't agree more Kaplan, I would love to see the antique cowhide made in the USA using the Legend pattern! That would be one heckuva a jacket.

Nebraska the jacket looks great on you and you wear it well, I am sure you will get much use out of this jacket.

RayROnline · Post by **RayROnline** » Sat Mar 12, 2011 11:55 am

Here's the first look at my new Hero Antique Leather Wings. I'm 5'8", 170lbs and this is a Med. I think it fits great. It is the most comfortable wearing jacket I've had yet.

Weston, you said expect a strong smell of leather. This has a strong smell of wax, for lack of a better discription. Definately not leather smell. jThat's a little annoying, but I assume it will go away. Next, I think I'll step into the shower with it on for a quick wet-down.

The photo with the glasses shows the collar. The glasses are the same Indy wears.

Holt · Post by **Holt** » Sat Mar 12, 2011 12:00 pm

looks awesome on you my friend. funny, I just took mine out from the closet just this second. oh, btw, send me a pm on FB about..well, you know. I'm inerested to hear.

Weston · Post by **Weston** » Sat Mar 12, 2011 12:30 pm

Looks good Ray! Don't know what to tell you about the scent; mine always did smell good, still does in fact. Whatever it is I'm sure will mellow out in time. At any rate, I think this is the best looking jacket you've posted. It looks very natural on you. Enjoy!

Weston

Post by **Dr. Nebraska S.** » Sat Mar 12, 2011 12:46 pm

Looks great, Ray!

I particularly like the color, fit, and drape.

Wear it in good health!

Best wishes,
NS

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Sat Mar 12, 2011 1:01 pm

Looks good Ray!

Thanks for sharing!

Mark Raats · Post by **Mark Raats** » Sat Mar 12, 2011 9:51 pm

It looks great Ray!

BTW, my jacket also had a slightly strange smell about it when I first got it but in no time it gave way to the richest smell of leather. Being hot here I haven't worn mine for months but I took it out yesterday and the strong leather smell surprised me all over again.

Its a little like being in the company of an old friend.

Regards

MARK

RayROnline · Post by **RayROnline** » Sat Mar 12, 2011 9:57 pm

KramStaar wrote:It looks great Ray!

BTW, my jacket also had a slightly strange smell about it when I first got it but in no time it gave way to the richest smell of leather...

MARK

Thanks, mate! appreciate the compliment and the 411

Mitch LaRue · Post by **Mitch LaRue** » Sun Mar 13, 2011 11:13 am

Great looking jacket on ya, Ray!

Tibor · Post by **Tibor** » Sun Mar 13, 2011 11:34 am

RayROnline wrote:Here's the first look at my new Hero Antique Leather Wings.

Well heck Ray, you've got the green screen all ready to go! Go change into your khaki pants, grab your whip, and get Indy 5 started!

Really nice jacket.