Project: Custom Survival Jacket

[SCinPNW]

I prefer snaps to buttons, because buttons tend to come off fairly easily. Maybe have a quaility zipper, and then a flap that covers the zipper that has snaps which offers you the option of using either the zipper or snaps or both.

[snarlbuckle]

I've had great experiences with the buttons on peacoats in the past. While buttons do fall off from time to time, they can be easily repaired unlike zippers or snaps. More importantly, they can be repaired in the field. Secondly, I've never had problems with rain getting in due to great coat construction. The major drawback is that it requires three layers of fabric along the seam in order to keep the wind and rain out. I'm strongly considering using buttons in my jacket.

[redneckhillbilly]

Outer shell made of tyvek. inner liner than can be folded up into the collar on the inside from an emergency blanket. tyvek is breathable and water resistant. thermal blanket adds water proofing and allows inside to reflect body heat back at you plus it is water proof. could also be used as emergency shelter or as a signalling device water catchment/collector etc.

[kappydell]

how did the jacket turn out? a few commercial pattern makers are coming out with clothing with concealed pockets to put 'things' in...i like their vest. Saf-t-pockets is their name. i mention the vest because any article of clothing with 10 pockets is useful, especially if it looks 'normal' (not like something from a tactical wardrobe). they do a nice safari styled vest, too. if your girl sews, she can get many good ideas from looking at theirs - i especially liked the pockets hidden behind pockets thing, as well as hidden pockets accessed through what would normally be a seam or style feature.