defence clothing (dc) - royal marines

UK/SC/6547 Issue 03 22 June 2011

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Technical Specification for

FEATHER PLUMES

Defence Clothing (DC)

PROPERTY OF MINISTRY OF DEFENCE


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PREFACE

TABLE 1 – PRODUCT LIST

Item Name Feather Plumes

Development File No.

Product Support File No.

NATO Stock No. User Description Pattern No.

8455-99-122-3628

Gordon Highlanders Plume Feather Red and White 19977

8455-99-320-0273 The Royal Welsh Plume Feather Hackle White D00860

8455-99-428-7146

Royal Tank Regiment

Plume Feather Red Brown and Green 18981

8455-99-456-0248

Royal Regiment of Scotland 1 SCOTS

Plume Feather Hackle Black D00974

8455-99-456-0249


Plume Feather Hackle White D00977

8455-99-456-0250


Plume Feather Hackle Red D00975

8455-99-456-0251


Plume Feather Hackle Blue D00978

8455-99-456-0252


Plume, Feather (Hackle), Green D00976

8455-99-553-3645

The Light Cavalry Band

Ring, Plume for use on OR’s Busby D02204

8455-99-553-3646

The Light Cavalry Band

Plume, Grenade, All ranks for use with Busby Plume D02204

8455-99-667-9554


Plume Feather Hackle Grey D02187

8455-99-879-5425


Plume Feather Hackle Purple D02109

8455-99-974-0584

Royal Irish Regiment Plume Feather Hackle Green 15128A


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TABLE 1 – PRODUCT LIST continued NATO Stock No. User Description Pattern No.

8455-99-974-0585 Royal

Regiment of Fusiliers

Plume Feather Hackle Red and White (patterns retained for information purposes)

D01012

8455-99-974-0588 Royal

Regiment of Scotland

Plume Feather Blackcock 16206B

8455-99-974-0592 London Irish Rifles (TA) Plume Feather Green 15150A

8455-99-974-0593

“A” Troop 208 Air Defence

Battery RA (V)

Plume Feather Hackle Blue and Red 17452

8455-99-975-1576 Black Watch Plume Feather Red 18623

8455-99-975-1577 Highland Regiments Plume Feather White 18624

8455-99-975-5326

Household Cavalry Medical Officer

Plume Feather Black (Patterns retained for information purposes)

23904

8455-99-975-5327

Household Cavalry

Veterinary Officer

Plume Feather Red (Patterns retained for information purposes)

23905

8455-99-975-5328

Grenadier Guards, Scots

Guards, Brigade of

Guards

Plume Cocked Hat Whiteswan Feather 16032

8455-99-975-6227 Royal Horse

Artillery Officers

Ring Plume 22512

8455-99-975-6343 Irish Guards WO etc Plume Blue 7145A

8455-99-975-6649 Irish Guards Plume Feather Blue 3451A

8455-99-975-6904 Irish Guards Officers Plume Feather Blue 19659


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TABLE 1 – PRODUCT LIST continued NATO Stock No. User Description Pattern No. 8455-99-975-6905 Scots Guards Plume Feather Red and Purple 19660

8455-99-975-6906 Welsh Guards Officers Plume Feather White and Green 19661

8455-99-975-6907 Royal Horse Artillery Plume Feather Busby White 19662A

Any colour shown in this document is for representation and must not be used for colour matching.

IPR STATEMENT

This specification contains information which is proprietary to the Secretary of State for Defence and shall remain the property of the Secretary of State. It is issued in strict confidence and must not be seen by any unauthorised person. The specification is supplied solely for the purpose of Information/Tender/Contract and shall not be copied or reproduced or used for any other purpose whatsoever without the express prior written permission of the Secretary of State as represented by the Intellectual property rights group.

Technical data in this document refers to the edition current at the date of tender or contract unless otherwise stated.

CROWN COPYRIGHT RESERVED


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TABLE 2 – ISSUE RECORD

Issue No. Comments Issue Date 3 Addition of the following NSN’s

8455-99-553-3645 – The Light Cavalry Band Plume Ring 8455-99-553-3646 – The Light Cavalry Band Plume Grenade 8455-99-456-0252 – 5 SCOTS, Plume, Feather (Hackle), Green

22 June 2011

2 Addition of NSN 8455-99-667-9554, 6 SCOTS hackle and 8455-99-879-5425, 7 SCOTS hackle

06 June 2011

1 New Specification Rationalisation of measurements between Standard Patterns

17 January 2011


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PART 1

1. THE PRODUCT

a. Use of the Product

Feather plumes are worn on various types of headgear including berets, cocked hats, busbies and bonnets. The plume serves as decoration and to distinguish the regiment and rank of the wearer

FIGURE 1

Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Plume, worn on beret

FIGURE 2

Black Watch Plume, worn on feather bonnet


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TABLE 3 – RELATED SPECIFICATIONS AND DOCUMENTS

Specification/Document Detail BS EN ISO 105

Part B02 Part C06 Part X12

Textiles. Tests for colour fastness. Colour fastness to artificial light: Xenon arc fading lamp test Colour fastness to domestic & commercial laundering Colour fastness to rubbing

BS EN ISO 2062 Yarns from packages – Determination of single-end breaking force and elongation at break using constant rate of extension (CRE)

BS 7318 Specification for industrial sewing threads made from linen (flax) or cotton

UK/SC/5126 Insignia, Buttons, Pins, Plates and Titles Manufactured from Gilding Metal, Brass and Nickel Silver

2. PATTERNS

a. Master Patterns: DC holds a Master Pattern for this product. Potential contractors may view the pattern on site by arrangement with the DC Commercial Department

b. Standard Patterns: A Standard Pattern may be obtained from the DC

Technical Information Office and may be used to provide the criteria for all materials, components and manufacturing features not fully defined in this specification


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PART 2

3. PRODUCT DESIGN

a. Product Description Feathered plumes in a variety of styles and colours

TABLE 4 – PRODUCT COMPONENTS 4.1 Feathers • All feathers are to be of good commercial

quality

• All feathers are to be thoroughly cleaned and fumigated to render them free from insect life and disease

• The data sheets define the feathers used in each item

• The contractor is responsible for using such types of feathers as will produce an item to match the standard patterns

• Dyed feathers are to comply with the colour fastness requirements test in Table 6

• The best, and most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the tops of the plumes to give the best aesthetic finish

4.2 Embellishments and fittings • Defined in the individual data sheets

4.3 Wires for loops and internal forming

• Defined in the individual data sheets

4.4 Adhesive • All bindings are to be glued with a clear, waterproof emulsion adhesive

4.5 Thread for mounting and binding feathers

• Thread cotton or linen to BS 7318

• See Table 7

• Or an acceptable alternative

4.6 Padding material • Hemp fibre or suitable alternative

4.7 Other components • Other components not specified above will either be specified in the individual data sheets or must be as in the Standard Patterns or an alternative approved by the DC with similar performance characteristics


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TABLE 5 – PRODUCT CONSTRUCTION 5.1 Design • The design, assembly, textures and shades of

all plumes are to be strictly in accordance with that of the guiding standard pattern, except those caused through the effects of natural wear and tear and ageing

• The, finish and handle of all parts of the plumes are to be of the same quality as the Standard Pattern

5.2 Measurements • All measurements specified in the data sheets are in millimetres unless otherwise stated - See data sheets

• Table 9 denotes dimensional tolerances to be adhered to unless specified within the data sheets


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TABLE 6 – TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR FEATHERS

The colour fastness of the dyed feathers shall not be lower than the following ratings:

Method of Test BS EN ISO 105

B02 C06 X12

Light (XENON) Washing Rubbing

Colour Change Staining Colour

Change Staining Colour Change Staining

3-4 - 3 3 3 3 TABLE 7– TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR LINEN & COTTON THREAD OR SUITABLE ALTERNATIVE

The colour fastness of the dyed linen thread shall not be lower than the following ratings:

Method Of Test BS EN ISO 105

X12

Rubbing

Colour Change Staining

5 5

TABLE 7 – TESTING continued

The linen/cotton thread or suitable alternative shall comply with the properties specified in the following table:

Requirement Method of test

Count 536 tex -

Ply – Hair weaving core threads 5 - 8 fold -

Ply – Sewing thread 3 fold -

Ply – Binding thread 3 - fold -

Tensile Strength – cN (centinewton minimum) 15569

BS EN ISO 2062 Yarns from packages –

Determination of single-end breaking force and elongation

at break


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4. PACKAGING AND LABELLING REQUIREMENTS

a. Unless specified on data sheets the plumes shall be packed in tubular paper or polythene envelopes before being placed into suitable cartons.

b. Each NSN is to be sealed in a clear polyurethane bag with a pressure sensitive self adhesive label affixed detailing the Item Description, NSN, Contract Number, size (where applicable), Quantity, Denomination and year of manufacture.

c. Additionally, all packaging requirements quoted in the terms & conditions of the contract are to be adhered to.

d. Items should always be packaged in a way to prevent damage during transit and storage.

e. Multiple quantities of the same individually packaged NSNs may be shipped in the same box. Mixed NSN multiple packaging is not permitted.

f. Multiple packaging label - Each outer package is to be clearly labelled with the Item Description, NSN, Contract Number, Quantity, Denomination and year of manufacture

TABLE 8 – SPECIMEN LABELLING

Outer packaging label

Self adhesive label

Item Description NSN Contract Number Size (where applicable) Quantity Denomination Year of Manufacture

Item Description NSN Contract Number Size (where applicable) Year of Manufacture


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TABLE 9 – DIMENSIONAL TOLERANCES The following tolerances apply unless otherwise specified within the data sheets. Where items are to be fitted together the plus and minus tolerances may need to be adjusted to allow for correct fitting

In millimetres (unless otherwise stated)

From To +/- tolerance

for feather sections

+/- tolerance for metal

ware

1 9 2%

10 49 5 0.5

50 149 5 1

150 299 5 2

300 599 10 3


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FIGURE 3 – FEATHER PLUME MANUFACTURE

3.1 a) The central bar is cut to the correct length. Any sharp edges are to be filed off, or: b) Wire is formed into a stem with a loop and, for some patterns, a hook

3.2 The bar/ wire stem is wrapped with padding material to create the former 3.3 The brass ring is threaded onto string and securely bound to the former, a)

shows a plume with ring on string, b) shows plume with ring only 3.4 The top of the former is bound over with feathers which are secured with thread,

a) shows a plume with ring on string, b) shows plume with ring only 3.5 Feathers are mounted around the former, secured by wrapping and tying with

thread. The most uniform feathers are to be used at the top of the plume 3.6 The mounting process is continued down the length of the plume 3.7 The correct length is reached 3.8 The base of the feather section is tightly bound with thread. The binding is then

glued with a waterproof emulsion adhesive e.g. PVA


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PART 3

5. DATA SHEETS

a. The following section contains data sheets listing bill of materials, manufacturing information, dimensions and images for each plume and beard NSN listed in table 1.

b. Relevant Standard Patterns are to be used to govern shade, all shades

depicted on data sheets are for guidance only.

c. Any pattern suffixed with TG is a pattern To Guide for manufacture of a range of similar design.


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NSN 8455-99-122-3628

Pattern No. 19977 Description Plume, Feather, Red over White

User The Gordon Highlanders. Worn on feather bonnet

BILL OF MATERIALS Main Materials

• Feathers – Chicken, dyed red and white, the shades to match the standard pattern. Alternatively goose feathers may be used

Metal ware • Central bar – Aluminium 4.7mm (3/16”) square cross section or suitable alternative approved by DC. Length to be 270mm

• Ring – Brass, 12-13mm diameter Padding Material

• Hemp fibres or a suitable alternative approved by DC

Binding • Cotton or linen thread, black

Ring attachment

• String, linen or cotton

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.1a and 3.3d

• Aluminium bar 4.7mm square cross section is cut 270mm long, any sharp edges are to be filed off

• The bar is wrapped with material, to form a padded former, tapering towards the bottom, as shown in Fig.3.2a

• The top of the former is bound over with red feather enclosing the brass ring and secured with thread, as shown in Fig.3.3d and 3.4d

• The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern, as shown in Fig.3.5. The most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the top of the plume

• The finished shape is to be as the standard pattern

• Approximately equal amounts of red and white feathers are to be used

• The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding with suitable black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-320-0273

Pattern No. D00860

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), White

User The Royal Welsh. Worn on beret


• Feathers – Chicken feathers must be used, bleached and dyed white, the shade to match the standard pattern

Metal ware • Loop and stem – Wire, galvanised steel, diameter 1.6 mm or a suitable alternative approved by DC

Padding Material


Binding • Cotton or linen thread, white MANUFACTURING INFORMATION

Plume • Refer to Fig.3.1b (but without hook)

• The loop and stem are formed from a single length of wire, looped and twisted, the finished length to be 140mm

• The loop is to be shaped as per the standard pattern

• The wire stem is wrapped with material to form a padded former, tapering towards the bottom

• The top of the former is bound over with white feather

• The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern. The most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the top of the plume


• The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding with suitable white thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-428-7146

Pattern No. 18981

Description Plume, Feather, Red, Brown and Green

User The Royal Tank Regiment. Worn on beret

BILL OF MATERIALS

Main Materials

• Feathers – Chicken, dyed brown, red and green, the shades to match the standard pattern. Alternatively goose feathers may be used

Metal ware • Loop – Galvanised steel wire, diameter 1.6mm, or a suitable alternative approved by DC

Former • Wire between 2 layers of “iron-on fabric” or a suitable alternative Binding • Cotton or linen thread, black Adhesive • Rubber solution

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • The loop and plume inner are formed from a single length of wire,

twisted and shaped as per the standard pattern. • The loop is to be shaped as per the standard pattern • The wire is sandwiched between two layers of iron-on fabric, to make

a former, shaped as per the standard pattern. • Brown, red and green feathers are mounted on the former in vertical

bands, the feathers curving to the front, trimmed along the top and securely affixed with rubber solution adhesive. The finished shape is to be as the standard pattern

• No adhesive is to be visible on the finished item • The wire loop is finished, where it exits the former, by binding with

suitable black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion Packaging • The plume is packed flat to preserve the shape


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NSN 8455-99-456-0248

Pattern No. D00974

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Black

User 1 Scots. The Royal Regiment of Scotland. Worn on beret


• Feathers – Chicken feathers must be used, dyed black, the shade to match the standard pattern

Metal ware • Loop and stem – Galvanised steel wire, diameter 1.6mm, or a suitable alternative approved by DC

Padding Material


Binding • Cotton or linen thread, black as the standard pattern

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.b (but without hook)


• The loop is to be shaped as per the standard pattern • The wire stem is wrapped with material to form a padded former,

tapering towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with black feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with

thread as per the standard pattern. The most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the top of the plume.

• The finished shape is to be as the standard pattern • The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding with

suitable black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-456-0249 Pattern No. D00977

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), White



• Feathers – Goose feathers must be used, dyed white, the shade to match the standard pattern


Padding Material


Binding • Cotton or linen thread, white as the standard pattern

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.b (but without hook)



tapering towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with white feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with

thread as per the standard pattern. The most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the top of the plume


suitable white thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-456-0250

Pattern No. D00975

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Red



• Feathers – Chicken feathers must be used, dyed red, the shade to match the standard pattern


Padding Material


Binding • Cotton or linen thread, red as the standard pattern

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig 3.b (but without hook)



tapering towards the bottom • The top of the centre is bound over with red feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with



suitable red thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-456-0251

Pattern No. D00978

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Blue


BILL OF MATERIALS

Main Materials

• Feathers – Turkey feathers must be used, dyed blue, the shade to match the standard pattern. A minimum of 24 feathers are to be used


Padding Material



MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • The loop and stem are formed from a single length of wire, looped

and twisted, the finished length to be 48mm • The loop is to be shaped as per the standard pattern • The wire stem is wrapped with material to form a padded former,

tapering towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with blue feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with

thread as per the standard pattern • The feathers are to curl outwards • The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding with



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NSN 8455-99-456-0252

Pattern No. D00976

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Green


BILL OF MATERIALS

Main Materials

• Feathers – Turkey feathers must be used, dyed green, the shade to match the standard pattern


Padding Material • Hemp fibres or a suitable alternative approved by DC


MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • The loop and stem are formed from a single length of wire, looped

and twisted, the finished length to be 64mm • The loop is to be shaped as per the standard pattern • The wire stem is wrapped with material to form a padded former,

tapering towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with green feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with

thread as per the standard pattern • The feathers are to curl outwards • The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding with



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NSN 8455-99-553-3645

Pattern No. D02204

Description Ring, Plume, Busby

User The Light Cavalry Band, OR’s

BILL OF MATERIALS

Main Materials

• Ring – Gilding metal, bright gold plated finish. To conform with UK/SC/5126

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION

Ring • Inside diameter 19mm nominal

• Outside diameter 22.5 mm nominal

• Thickness 3mm nominal

• With knurling to the outside as per the standard pattern


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NSN 8455-99-553-3646

Pattern No. D02207

Description Grenade, Plume

User The Light Cavalry Band, All Ranks

BILL OF MATERIALS

Main Materials

• Grenade – Gilding metal, bright gold plated finish. To conform with UK/SC/5126


Grenade • A plume ornament in the form of a flaming grenade with three flames over a round base

• The flames are to be detailed as per the standard pattern • The base has a hole 6.5mm in diameter to accommodate the central

bar of the plume • The ornament is used to cover the binding at the base of the

feathers


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NSN 8455-99-667-9554

Pattern No. D02187

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Grey



• Feathers – Chicken feathers must be used, dyed grey, the shade to match the standard pattern

Metal ware

• Loop and stem – Galvanised steel wire, diameter 1mm, or a suitable alternative

Padding Material • Hemp fibres or a suitable alternative Binding • Cotton or linen thread, grey as the standard pattern

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.b (without hook)



tapering towards the bottom • The top of the centre is bound over with grey feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with



suitable grey thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-879-5425

Pattern No. D02109

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Purple



• Feathers – Chicken feathers must be used, dyed purple, the shade to match the standard pattern

Metal ware

• Loop and stem – Galvanised steel wire, diameter 1mm, or a suitable alternative

Padding Material • Hemp fibres or a suitable alternative Binding • Cotton or linen thread, black as the standard pattern

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.b (without hook)



tapering towards the bottom • The top of the centre is bound over with purple feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with





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NSN 8455-99-974-0584

Pattern No. 15128A

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Green

User Royal Irish Regiment. Worn on beret


• Feathers – Chicken feathers must be used, dyed green, the shade to match the standard pattern


Padding Material











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NSN 8455-99-974-0585

Pattern No. D01012

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Red over White

User Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. Worn on beret


• Feathers – Chicken feathers must be used, dyed red and white, the shades to match the standard pattern


Padding Material


Binding • Cotton or linen thread, white as the standard pattern

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig 3.1b (without hook)



tapering towards the bottom • The top of the centre is bound over with red feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with



suitable white thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-974-0588

Pattern No. 16206B

Description Plume, Feather, Blackcock

User Royal Regiment of Scotland. Worn on Glengarry cap


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CONTINUATION OF 8455-99-974-0588


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• Top Fan – cockerel feathers, to match the standard pattern • Body – game feathers, to match the standard pattern • White parts – goose feathers, dyed white, to match the standard pattern • Internal – 3 large game feathers

Metal ware • Plate – Aluminium sheet , 0.5mm thick, shaped as per the diagram

Former • Plastic mesh, 1.5mm thick, shaped as per the diagram, symmetrical

Padding • Foam, polyurethane, 5mm thick

Ribbon • Petersham ribbon, plain weave, 15mm wide, black

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • The plastic mesh former and aluminium plate are cut to shape as per

the diagram • The aluminium plate is positioned on the front side of the plastic mesh

former, overlapping by 10mm and firmly affixed with staples • The polyurethane foam is cut 40mm wide by 80mm long and is

positioned at the base of the back side of the former and held in place with hand stitching

• Top fan – Cockerel feathers matching the standard pattern are glued to the former, front and back to produce the top fan of the plume. The fan is to have a slight curve to the back. The fan is trimmed to match the shape of the standard pattern. The spread of the fan is to be 135mm. The top fan section finishes 55mm below the central notch of the former

• One trimmed game feather is stapled centrally on the front side of the former, commencing at the end of the plate and extending to overlap the base of the top fan by 20mm (see front view inner photo)

• Two trimmed game feathers are stapled over the foam padding on the back side of the former, commencing at the base and extending to overlap the base of the top fan by 20mm(see front view inner photo)

• Body front – Game feathers, grey matching the standard pattern, are firmly glued to the front side of the former. One white feather is to be visible at the top centre. Five rows of three grey feathers are to show as per the standard pattern. The body feathers are to overlap the top fan of cockerel feathers

• Body back – Goose feathers, dyed white, are firmly glued to the rear side of the former. The thickness and shape are to match the standard pattern. The body feathers are to overlap the top fan of cockerel feathers

• The width at the widest part of the body is to be 65mm • The width at the neck is to be 55mm • The base of the body section is to be neatly wrapped with one turn of

15mm wide, black Petersham ribbon, which is overlapped on the back side and securely affixed with adhesive

• The finished shape and handle of the plume are to be as the standard pattern

• No adhesive is to be visible on the finished plume Packaging • The plume is packed flat in paper or polythene envelope


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NSN 8455-99-974-0592

Pattern No. 15150A

Description Plume, Feather, Green

User London Irish Rifles (TA)

BILL OF MATERIALS

Main Materials

• Feathers – Chicken, dyed green, the shade to match the standard pattern. Alternatively goose feathers may be used


Padding Material








• The finished shape is to be as the standard pattern • The feathers are further secured at the base by binding with suitable

black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-974-0593

Pattern No. 17452

Description Plume, Feather (Hackle), Blue over Red

User Liverpool Irish Rifles “A” Troop 208 Air Defence Battery RA (V)


• Feathers – Chicken, dyed blue and red, the shades to match the standard pattern. Alternatively goose feathers may be used


Padding Material



MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig 3.1b (but without hook)



tapering towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with blue feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying

with thread as per the standard pattern. The most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the top of the plume

• Approximately equal amounts of blue and red feathers are to be used

• The finished shape is to be as the standard pattern • The feathers are further secured at the base by binding with suitable

black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-975-1576 Pattern No. 18623 Description Plume, Feather, Red User Black Watch. Worn on feather bonnet


• Feathers – Chicken, dyed red, the shade to match the standard pattern. Alternatively goose feathers may be used




Binding • Cotton or linen thread, black Ring attachment


MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig 3.1a and 3.3d


• The bar is wrapped with material, to form a padded former, tapering towards the bottom, as shown in Fig 3.2a

• The top of the former is bound over with red feather enclosing the brass ring and secured with thread, as shown in Fig 3.3d and 3.4d

• The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern, as shown in Fig 3.5. The most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the top of the plume




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NSN 8455-99-975-1577 Pattern No. 18624 Description Plume, Feather, White User Highland Regiments. Worn on feather bonnet


• Feathers – Chicken, dyed white, the shade to match the standard pattern. Alternatively goose feathers may be used




Binding • Cotton or linen thread, white Ring attachment


MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig 3.1a and 3.3d


• The bar is wrapped with material, to form a padded former, tapering towards the bottom, as shown in Fig 3.2a

• The top of the former is bound over with white feather enclosing the brass ring and secured with thread, as shown in Fig 3.3d and 3.4d

• The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern, as shown in Fig 3.5. The most uniformly shaped feathers are to be used at the top of the plume




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NSN 8455-99-975-5326

Pattern No. 23904

Description Plume, Feather, Black

User Household Cavalry Medical Officer. Worn on cocked hat


• Feathers - Swan, dyed black, the shade to match the standard Pattern

Metal wear • Central bar – Aluminium 4.7mm (3/16”) square cross section or a suitable alternative approved by DC

• Stem – A square sleeve and threaded section 3.5x0.7 pitch metric with circular retaining nut with 2 prongs - Self coloured brass

• Ring – Self coloured brass, 12-13mm diameter Padding Material


Binding • Cotton or linen thread, black


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MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Aluminium 4.7mm square cross section is cut 75mm long, any sharp

edges are to be filed off • The bar is wrapped with material, to form a padded former, tapering

towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with black feather enclosing the

brass ring and secured with thread, as shown in Fig 3.3d and 3.4d • Before mounting the feathers, the quills are scraped on the inside to

make them flexible • The black swan feathers are mounted onto the former by layering,

wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern. Nominally 6 – 7 layers of 6 feathers each are used, arrayed so that there are no gaps in the finished plume

• The outer feathers are to be 229mm long (9”) +/-5mm, to show, when flattened. Feathers may be sewn together to achieve the correct length

• The best feathers are to be used in the outer layers of the plume • The finished shape is to be circular with a nominal diameter of

between 180 and 200mm • The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding with

suitable black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion • The stem assembly comprises a 6.5mm square brass sleeve 20mm

long, with a 34mm long, brass threaded section Metric 3.5 x 0.7 pitch) securely attached at the base. A 25mm diameter circular retaining nut with two angled prongs is fitted

• The plume is attached to the stem by slotting and firmly affixing the bar into the brass sleeve

Packaging • The plumes are to be packed individually in strong cardboard tubes with plastic tops either end


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NSN 8455-99-975-5327

Pattern No. 23905

Description Plume, Feather, Red

User Household Cavalry Veterinary Officer. Worn on cocked hat


• Feathers - Swan, dyed red, the shade to match the standard Pattern

Metal wear • Central bar – Aluminium 4.7mm (3/16”) square cross section or suitable alternative approved by DC

• Stem – A square sleeve and threaded section 3.5x0.7 pitch metric with circular retaining nut with 2 prongs - Self coloured brass

• Ring – Self coloured brass, 12-13mm diameter Padding Material



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Binding • Cotton or linen thread, black Plume • Aluminium 4.7mm square cross section is cut 75mm long, any sharp

edges are to be filed off • The bar is wrapped with material, to form a padded former, tapering

towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with red feather enclosing the

brass ring and secured with thread, as shown in Fig 3.3d and 3.4d • Before mounting the feathers, the quills are scraped on the inside to

make them flexible • The red swan feathers are mounted onto the former by layering,

wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern. Nominally 6 – 7 layers of 6 feathers each are used, arrayed so that there are no gaps in the finished plume

• The outer feathers are to be 229mm long (9”) +/-5mm, to show, when flattened. Feathers may be sewn together to achieve the correct length

• The best feathers are to be used in the outer layers of the plume • The finished shape is to be circular with a nominal diameter of

between 180 and 200mm • The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding with

suitable black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion • The stem assembly comprises a 6.5mm square brass sleeve 20mm

long, with a 34mm long, brass threaded section Metric 3.5 x 0.7 pitch securely attached at the base. A 25mm diameter circular retaining nut with two angled prongs is fitted

• The plume is attached to the stem by slotting and firmly affixing the bar into the brass sleeve

Packaging • The plumes are to be packed in individually in strong cardboard tubes


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NSN 8455-99-975-5328

Pattern No. 16032

Description Plume, for cocked hats

User Grenadier Guards, Scots Guards, Brigade of Guards


• Feathers – Swan, white, bleached. The shade to match the standard pattern

Metal ware • Loop and stem – Galvanised

steel wire, diameter 1.6mm, or a suitable alternative approved by DC

Padding Material



MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig 3.1b (but without

hook) • The loop and stem are formed

from a single length of wire, looped and twisted, the finished length to be 220mm

• The loop is to be shaped as per the standard pattern

• The wire stem is wrapped with material to form a padded former, tapering towards the bottom

• The top of the former is bound over with white feather

• The swan feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern. The outer feathers are to form a distinct band, finishing half way up the feathered section as per the standard pattern




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NSN 8455-99-975-6227

Pattern No. 22512

Description Ring, Plume, Busby

User Royal Horse Artillery Officers


• Ring – Gilding metal, bright gold plated finish. To conform with UK/SC/5126

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Ring • Inside diameter 18.5mm nominal

• Outside diameter 23.25mm nominal • Thickness 6.5mm nominal • Complete with an external D shaped cross-section which has a

raised diagonal patterned centre as the standard pattern


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NSN 8455-99-975-6343

Pattern No. 7145A

Description Plume, Feather, St. Patricks Blue

User Irish Guards WO, Staff Sgt, Sgt and Musicians


• Feather, Cock hackle, dyed St. Patrick’s blue, the shade to match the standard pattern. The feather ends are to be trimmed square

Metal ware • Loop, stem and hook – Galvanised steel wire, diameter 1.6mm, or a suitable alternative approved by DC

Padding Material




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MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig 3.1b

• The loop, stem and hook are formed from a single length of wire, looped and twisted, the finished length to be 215mm

• The loop and hook are to be shaped as per the standard pattern • The wire stem is wrapped with material to form a padded former,

tapering towards the bottom • The top of the former is bound over with blue feather • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with


• The finished shape is to be as the standard pattern • The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding

with suitable black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-975-6649

Pattern No. 3451A

Description Plume, Feather, St. Patrick’s Blue

User Irish Guards, QUOTC and The London Regiment


• Feathers – Chicken feathers, dyed St. Patrick’s Blue, the shade to match the standard pattern. Each feather is to be trimmed to a point. Alternatively goose feathers may be used

Metal ware • Central bar – Flat brass bar 5 - 5.5mm wide by 1.6mm thick or suitable alternative approved by DC. Length to be 76mm

Padding Material



MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Flat brass bar, 5 – 5.5mm wide by 1.6mm thick is cut to 76mm long.

Any sharp edges are to be filed off • The bar is wrapped with material, to form a padded former, tapering

towards the bottom similar to Fig.3.2a • The top of the former is bound over with blue feather enclosing the

brass bar, similar to Fig.3.4 but without ring. • The feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with


• The finished shape is to be as the standard pattern • The mounted feathers are further secured at the base by binding

with suitable black thread, which is then glued with a waterproof emulsion


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NSN 8455-99-975-6904

Pattern No. 19659

Description Plume, Feather, St. Patrick’s Blue

User Irish Guards Officers, worn on Bearskin


• Feathers – Chicken, dyed St. Patrick’s blue, the shade to match the standard pattern. Each feather is to be trimmed to a point. Alternatively goose feathers may be used


• Ring – Brass, 12-13mm diameter

Padding Material



• String, linen, cotton or elasticated

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.1a and 3.3c



• The top of the former is bound over with blue feather and secured with thread, as shown in Fig.3.3c and 3.4c



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MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume continued




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NSN 8455-99-975-6905 Pattern No. 19660 Description Plume, Feather, Red over Purple User Scots Guards, Pipers, worn on Bonnet


• Feathers – Chicken, dyed red and purple, the shades to match the standard pattern. Alternatively goose feathers may be used

Metal ware • Central bar – Aluminium 4.7mm (3/16”) square cross section or a suitable alternative approved by DC. Length to be 285mm





MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.1a and 3.3d



• The top of the former is bound over with purple feather enclosing the brass ring and secured with thread, as shown in Fig.3.3d and 3.4d


• Approximately equal amounts of purple and red feathers are to be used




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NSN 8455-99-975-6906 Pattern No. 19661 Description Plume, Feather, White over Green over White User Welsh Guards Officers, worn on Bearskin


• Feathers – Chicken, dyed white and green, the shades to match the standard pattern. Each feather is to be trimmed to a point. Alternatively goose feathers may be used

Metal ware • Central bar – Aluminium 4.7mm (3/16”) square cross section or a suitable alternative approved by DC. Length to be 285mm




• String, linen, cotton or elasticated

MANUFACTURING INFORMATION Plume • Refer to Fig.3.1a and 3.3c



• The top of the former is bound over with white feather and secured with thread, as shown in Fig.3.3c and 3.4c


• The bands of white and green feathers are to be as the standard pattern. Nominal 90/60/90mm ratio




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NSN 8455-99-975-6907

Pattern No. 19662A

Description Plume, Feather, White

User Royal Horse Artillery, worn on Busby


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BILL OF MATERIALS

Main Materials

• Main body – Good quality Ostrich feathers, white, the shade to match the standard pattern

• Base – Traditionally vulture feathers, white, the shade is to match the standard pattern. The feathers are trimmed to points. White goose feathers are an approved alternative

Metal wear • Central bar – Aluminium 4.7mm (3/16”) square cross section or a suitable alternative approved by DC. Length to be 380mm

• Ornament – Gilding metal, bright gold plated finish. To conform to UK/SC/5126. In the form of a three pointed flame, to match the standard pattern

• Ring – Gilding metal, bright gold plated finish. To conform to Pattern 22512, NSN 8455-99-975-6227

Padding Material


Binding • Cotton or linen thread, white


Plume • Refer to Fig.3.1a



• The ostrich feathers are mounted onto the former by wrapping and tying with thread as per the standard pattern

• Vulture, or goose feathers are used at the base of the plume, curling outwards as per the standard pattern


• The ring and ornament are added as per the standard pattern

defence clothing (dc) - royal marines

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