Some guidelines to consider:
You will not need a sword or pistol so cross these off your list right now.
Do not use original Civil War equipment. It detracts from your impression. Civil War soldiers were not issued equipment that was 130 years old. The original stuff costs a lot. You may accidently damage a family heirloom. Leave the original equipment safely at home.
Civil War period stockings were wool or cotton of natural colors. No thermal or hunting socks with stripes allowed.
The following groups of uniform parts and equipment (with approximate prices) are listed in recommended order of purchase.
� GROUP 1 - Your basic uniform
�Civil War period shoes (brogans) $85
�Sky blue kersey trousers and suspenders $70
�Four button sack coat $65
�Forage (bummer's) cap $30 - $60
�Period shirt $25
� GROUP 2 - Your basic equipment
�Leather gear $95 - cartridge/cap boxes, belts and straps.
�Haversack (food bag) $25
�Canteen (metal with wool cover) $30
�Eating utensils (knife, fork, spoon, plate, cup) $30
�Musket (1861 model Springfield) $400
�Bayonet and Scabbard $50
�Wool blanket (U.S. regulation) $40
�Canvas "A" tent, poles, and stakes $130- $150
� GROUP 3 - Optional items you should eventually get
�Winter greatcoat $175
�Frock Coat $160
�Vest $40
�Underdrawers $20
�Soft knapsack $100
Remember, these items are optional.
As you can see this list is not cheap, so check with the veterans first. You can possibly borrow equipment from others and save money until you are ready to buy everything you need. There are a lot of knapsack stuffers that everyone is constantly buying to upgrade their impressions. Items like tobacco plugs, writing paper and pens, odd food items, and tote bags. Keeping a good Civil War impression is an ongoing activity for all of us!
