New to Re-enacting, what to buy?

[Dbackfed]

Get shoes and a canteen first. Most everything else can be borrowed for a while.

[Ken Knopp]

Great comments by all. The helping attitude here in addition to the sound advice in the way we approach things here is what makes this forum great. Its more than just authentic gear or even a memorable event experience its also a testimony to the quality of people we have on this end of the hobby. Thank you all for chiming in to help this guy.

Ken R Knopp

[GAR]

Kind words, Ken. But where we all be without you?

G

[BigD]

Chris,

If you are needing some equipment, let me know. I have some extras that you might like to use/buy. I have an extra Karl Pepper CS Mac that is in great shape that I got incase anyone needed one at an event.

[ButtermilkRanger]

I enjoy reading posts from people who choose to look before they leap. My word of advice for any newbie is "less is more". Start with the basics and be as ambiguous and non-descript as possible. Remember, a good cavalry impression, especially Trans-Mississippi, is a good infantry impression with a horse. Use the approved vendors list here and buy from reputable vendors. Brogans, a good pair of civvy trousers, a good overshirt or sack coat and a long barrel shotgun are always good basic options that allow you to do multiple impressions in multiple theaters.

[Tom Craig]

The fellow who asked the original question asked for some vendor suggestions... In terms of tack for CS applications, Stuart Lillie is a good place to start. Nick Duvall also makes some top notch cavalry equipment, although he doesn't really do saddles at this time.

Take care,
Tom Craig
1st Maine Cavalry