As a unit we try our best to be as historically accurate and true to the average Japanese soldier as possible. Since most of us are not Japanese, or even Asian, the most important elements to our impression become the weapons, uniforms, and equipment that we carry. By striving to make these elements as close to the original as possible, we are able to put our reenacting impression together.
If you have never participated in a historical reenacting event before, you might be surprised to learn how difficult it can be to put together a proper military impression. It requires a lot of research and dedication, and it is usually very expensive if it is done right (which it should be). If you are a new recruit just starting out, do not be discouraged, we have tried to make it as easy as possible to help you spend your money on the proper equipment, so you don't waste finances on anything that is inaccurate. Below is a list of items you will need to attend either a public or private reenacting event with our group. Next to each item is a link to the correct item, where you can purchase from a reputable vendor. Between www.hikishop.com and www.stewartsmilitaryantiques.com, you can get almost everything you need except for a rifle and bayonet. |
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO WEAR RANK OF NITOHEI (2nd Class Private)
-wool cap [click here]
-tropical shirt [click here]
-tropical pants [click here]
-wool leg wraps [click here]
-boots - USGI or German roughout lowboots are fine [click here]
-leather belt set - Type 99 set [click here] or Type 38 set [click here]
-bread bag [click here]
-canteen & harness [click here]
In addition to the above requirements, a proper military haircut is required. At minimum hair must not reach below the top of the ear (no sideburns), and must be short on the sides and neck, not touching the collar.
-tropical shirt [click here]
-tropical pants [click here]
-wool leg wraps [click here]
-boots - USGI or German roughout lowboots are fine [click here]
-leather belt set - Type 99 set [click here] or Type 38 set [click here]
-bread bag [click here]
-canteen & harness [click here]
In addition to the above requirements, a proper military haircut is required. At minimum hair must not reach below the top of the ear (no sideburns), and must be short on the sides and neck, not touching the collar.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS TO WEAR RANK OR ITOHEI (1st Class Private)
-rifle (Type 99 Arisaka or Type 38 Arisaka) [click here]
-rifle sling [click here]
-helmet [click here]
-backpack [click here]
-work shoes [click here]
-mess kit (look for an original)
-bayonet (find an original Type 30 with scabbard)
In addition to the above requirements, any member wearing the rank of Itohei must attend a minimum of 3 events with the unit. This encourages new members to get involved and support the unit at events, as well as purchasing equipment.
-rifle sling [click here]
-helmet [click here]
-backpack [click here]
-work shoes [click here]
-mess kit (look for an original)
-bayonet (find an original Type 30 with scabbard)
In addition to the above requirements, any member wearing the rank of Itohei must attend a minimum of 3 events with the unit. This encourages new members to get involved and support the unit at events, as well as purchasing equipment.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS TO WEAR RANK OF JOTOHEI (Superior Private)
-shovel [click here]
-gas mask bag [click here]
-shelter half (currently not available)
-cotton summer tunic [click here]
-cotton summer pants [click here]
In addition to the above requirements, any member wearing the rank of Jotohei must first have attended a minimum of 6 events with the unit. This gives more value to the rank, and displays an earnest commitment to the unit rather than simply purchasing additional equipment.
-gas mask bag [click here]
-shelter half (currently not available)
-cotton summer tunic [click here]
-cotton summer pants [click here]
In addition to the above requirements, any member wearing the rank of Jotohei must first have attended a minimum of 6 events with the unit. This gives more value to the rank, and displays an earnest commitment to the unit rather than simply purchasing additional equipment.
OPTIONAL ITEMS FOR YOUR KIT
The items below are not requirements for the impression, but will add depth and detail to improve your kit after you get everything else. These items are highly recommended.
-pocket knife [click here]
-work gloves [click here]
-cotton undershirt [click here]
-tabi socks [click here]
-fundoshi
-dog tag
-pocket knife [click here]
-work gloves [click here]
-cotton undershirt [click here]
-tabi socks [click here]
-fundoshi
-dog tag
If you would like to come to an event and try out reenacting with our unit before you decide to commit and buy everything, please feel free to contact us. If we have enough lead time, we can see what kind of loaner gear is available for you, so that you can come and spend some time with us. Also, if you are putting together your kit and have any questions, please contact us first, so we can help you decide what you need. Beware of other vendors not linked from this website, there is a lot of junk out there being sold as an "accurate reproduction" and such items are either highly discouraged or not allowed to be used in this unit.