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How To Scratch Building Mk27 Life Preserver

This Life Presever was the type worn by aircrew during the Falklands War. Nothing on the market even came close to looking like the real thing so I built one for myself.

What You Need

Hot Toys US Grenade Vest
2x BBi Apache Pilot Vests
BBi Floatation Vest

Instructions

1. This is the Hot Toys Grenade Vest with all of the grenade pouches removed. This forms the base for the Mk27 Life Preserver. It is important not to cut the fabric of the vest while removing the pouches.

2. All of the webbing and straps are removed from the Floatation Vest along with the zip but leaving as much fabric from either side of the zip as possible. This just leaves a 'Horseshoe'. The Horseshoe is sewn onto the vest base; first by the fabric remaining from the zip and then in the centre at the back of the neck where the horseshoe meets the vest. The side of the neck are left loose which helps the vest fit correctly on the figure.

3. Remove the smaller (right side) pouch from each of the Apache Pilot vests by carefully cutting the stitching. These pouches are sewn either side of the Horseshoe, slightly towards the back and almost level with the bottom of the vest. These pouches hold all the survival equipment.

4. The finished Mk27 Life Preserver. Everything in the picture, except the map and clipboard, fits into the two pouches.