I’m going for a screen-accurate GB1 build. I already have LC-1 straps coming in from GBFans, so I just need the right frame.
I’m really concerned about getting an aftermarket/Milspec frame. I want the real deal. I’m not clear how to tell the difference between authentic military surplus, and milspec.
Here are two options on eBay:
First, there’s this one which claims to be actual military surplus:
This one claims "It is actually our own brand. We commissioned a factory to make them directly. ":
I’m not particularly thrilled with the price on either, but I’m not seeing any prospects that are cheaper.
I know people recommend going to a local military surplus, but again: I’m not clear how to tell the difference between authentic military surplus, and milspec.
The top frame is an LC2 frame. For GB1, you need an LC1 frame, which is the bottom frame. The problem is, the LC2 replaced the LC1 in the early to mid '80’s, and the likelihood of coming across a real surplus LC1 is extremely slim now. The aftermarket frames are really your only practical option nowadays for the LC1.
As far as how to tell the difference between the two frames, it’s easy. On the LC2, if you look at the cross bar at the middle of the frame, see how it sticks out away from the main body of the frame? On the LC1, that cross bar is flat against the frame body and doesn’t stick out. Additionally, the LC1 frames were black, the LC2 frames were green.
In addition to what THawke has said, vintage LC1 (and all LC2) frames only have the indent in the vertical crossbar on the top half, and the modern LC1 frames have it in the top and bottom half.
[quote=THawke post_id=4992931 time=1709120772 user_id=41640]The aftermarket frames are really your only practical option nowadays for the LC1.
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My concern there is the durability/strength complaints about the aftermarket/milspec LC-1 frames. The 2nd pic (the one you say is LC-1) is being sold by “CNC.xyz”. Unfortunately GBFans won’t let me search on that since it’s too short, so I don’t know if they have any sort of reputation.
