Why Marines refer to their individual field gear and equipment as "782 Gear"

Why Marines refer to their individual field gear and equipment as "782 Gear"?

The Individual combat equipment was knows by Vietnam-era Marines as "782" gear . Fielded as Marine Corps M1941 Individual combat equipment , the sturdy construction of canvas , webbing and brass fitting was almost indestructible .


At one time, the individual field equipment (pack, canteen, cartridge belt, etc.) issued to a Marine was listed on a form identified as NAVMC (Navy-Marine Corps) form “782”. That particular form is no longer used. But tradition dies hard. Marines still call their individual field equipment, “782-Gear”.

Boot Camp Documents - 782 Gear Receipt 1964

from 1964, Boot Camp - Parris Island, D/147 album

This is a receipt for 782 Gear. It was called 782 Gear because at one time the number of the USMC form was 782. It has changed as this form number is : 

Memorandum Receipt for Individual/Garrison Equipment (NAVMC 10577)

NAVMC 10577-SD (9-63)