Equipment

unidentified49thsoldierThe uniform and weaponry of the rank and file of the 49th Ohio Volunteer Infantry changed as the war progressed. The equipment list that our unit prefers for new members is based on an early war impression circa 1862. This impression includes: Ohio state-issued “roundabout” jacket; “OVM” belt plate; and wedge tents in camp. All of these items serve to depict this early impression. By mid-war, uniforms wore out and were replaced with standard federal issue sack coats, belts, dog tents, etc. This is also acceptable gear for new members. Slouch hats became popular with western troops as the war progressed, but be careful what you buy, these were not “cowboy” hats. Do your research! Ask one of our veterans for help if you are needing guidance. We are here to help you!

New members should start by buying:

ohiosoldier

  • 4-button U.S. Infantry wool sack coat (fatigue blouse)
    or State Jacket also called a Roundabout. Try these sources for state jackets:
    Ohio State Issue Jacket | U.S. Untrimmed Shell Jacket (Roundabout)
    (Roundabouts were an early war issue by the state of Ohio and would have eventually
    been replaced by the standard Federal issue sack coat as needed)
  • Army-issue white shirt or civilian-made shirt
  • sky blue wool trousers with suspenders
  • forage cap (either type 1 or type 2), Hardee or slouch hat
  • cotton or wool socks
  • leather brogans
  • waist belt with “OVM” belt buckle (not OVI) or “US” buckle
  • U.S. smoothside canteen (brown cover was known to be issued)
  • black tarred haversack with cotton inner bag

Next, the musket and leather accoutrements:

  • .58 caliber Enfield or M1861 Springfield rifled musket
  • bayonet (make sure it will fit your musket), and correct scabbard
  • cartridge box and shoulder strap with or without U.S. eagle breast plate
  • cap pouch
  • Enfield or Springfield bayonet scabbard depending on your musket

Camp items:

  • knapsack (double bag, no frame)
  • U.S. issue gray wool blanket
  • tin cup, (stainless steel did not exist)
  • tin plate, knife, fork, spoon or combo tool
  • shelter halves (2 make a whole dog tent)
    poles can be made
  • Rubberized Ground Cloth

Other Items:

  • Mucket
  • Folding Lantern
  • Housewife (sewing kit)
  • A-Tent also called wedge tent, or shelter tent
  • white gaiters (leggings)
  • vest (these were very popular)

Black Powder Handling and Storage Precautions:

  • Avoid impact, friction, heat, sparks and open flame (i.e.: campfire, lantern).
  • Never smoke while handling black powder.
  • Never handle or use black powder after drinking alcohol or using mind-altering drugs.
  • Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
  • Do not mix black powder with any other type of gunpowder.
  • Do not purchase or accept black powder that is not in its original, factory sealed container.
  • Do not dispense black powder directly from the canister, flask or horn into the firearm.
  • Do not dispense substantial amounts of black powder in close proximity to the firearm.
  • Learn and obey all laws and regulations regarding quantities of explosive material and methods of storage.
  • Do not store black powder in the same area with other flammable materials.
  • Do not store black powder within the reach of children.
  • Store black powder only in manufacturer approved containers.

Recommended Sutlers:

Fall Creek Sutlery (uniforms, misc.)
C&D Jarnagin (uniforms, excellent cartridge boxes, misc.)
Regimental Quartermaster (uniforms, leathers, misc.)
Missouri Boot & Shoe Co. (top grade brogans, cartridge boxes)
Dirty Billys Hats (top grade headwear)
Blockade Runner (uniforms, misc.)
Timeless Stitches (good quality and reasonable brogans, uniforms)
N. J. Sekela (top quality uniforms, frock coats)
Wambaugh White & Co. (top grade uniform kits & uniforms)