US Army New Duffel Bag

Posted on : Armytimes


The Army Uniform Board has made four changes to your clothing bag that will take effect in fiscal 2013.
Two items were shot down, and three other items are under consideration. Here are a few things you need to know:
The new towel costs 30 cents more, but the new washcloth costs 29 cents less, so that’s a wash.

Topping the list is a new duffel bag that has four straps and zips from both sides. This “huge improvement” means you don’t have to empty the bag to get something from the bottom, said Maj. Sequana Robinson, the clothing bag’s assistant product manager. The new duffel holds the same amount of gear as the current bag. It is easier to carry and the Velcro name tag eliminates spray painting.

Soldiers also will get a towel that better covers the body. The size will increase from 20x40 inches to 24x48 inches. And your washcloth will now be an 80 percent poly, 20 percent nylon fabric.

Another board decision: Soldiers will no longer get a second flash with the beret. The board surveyed 659 noncommissioned officers and found that 88 percent never used the item.


WHAT IT COSTS

Cutting the extra flash, which costs 37 cents, will save the Army $1.24 million over five years. That money will be reinvested in the clothing bag, said Lt. Col. Michael Sloane, product manager for Soldier Clothing and Individual Equipment.

The new duffel will boost the Army’s cost from $22.20 to $29.61 each.

The new towel costs 30 cents more, but the new washcloth costs 29 cents less, so that’s a wash.