Plash Palatka (Soviet Poncho/Shelter) Gear Review and Freezing Overnight Test!!

[@rickbear7249]

The British Army equivalent of these was my best rainproof gear when carrying firearms or other weapons (bow or sword) for many years. If you've ever wondered why medieval Knights wore cloaks, it was so they could quickly and easily flip the fabric out of the way, so as not to become entangled, when engaged in a fight. I'd never button up the front on these waxed cotton cloaks, as you'll still remain amazingly dry (even in torrential rain) so long as you keep the cloak over your shoulders, and this configuration allows cooling airflow as well as letting your sweat escape. (Don't you just hate the way those modern plastic ponchos trap your sweat, and the supposedly "breathable" modern fabrics simply do not work in really heavy rain.) The main point of this gear is to keep a soldier reasonably dry, whilst retaining his ability to utilise his weapons -- his primary function -- which is something that's sacrificed in most modern equivalents. One last point. I said that this should be thought of as a Cape or a Cloak. It's brilliant at keeping most of the really torrential rain off you for days on end when you've no opportunity to dry things off. The important thing is to also be aware of what people wore underneath. You've heard of Woolen "Tweed" material (especially the wool Tweed Jackets that are a favourite with deer stalkers), but did you know they're the original waterproof and "breathable" clothing? In the wet the wool absorbs a slight amount of moisture, causing the threads to expand and seal (waterproof) the weave. Once expanded, the natural lanolin in the wool keeps you dry. And, those areas that haven't gotten wet (e.g. under your cloak) remain breathable because the fibres haven't expanded. So, wearing a woolen clothes under an open waxed cotton cloak can keep you dry, warm or cool, and sweat-free better than any of today's so-called "breathable" high-tech waterproof gear, especially if you're out in the wet for days on end. Rick (National Shooting Instructor in extremely wet England)

[@dillonlboyer]

Hi Rick, good comment. Can you recommend a cloak/poncho and wool jacket combo that doesn't break the bank?

[@rickbear7249]

@@dillonlboyer @Dillon Boyer the one I use is a British army "gas cape". It's waterproof canvas, so doesn't blow around like the nylon one. Your biggest problem will be to find one. They used to be plentiful in the military surplus stores, but I've not seen any for several years. Not sure about a wool jacket. I have a few good thick felt jackets from M&S. They usually stock them and they work well for rifle and bow shooting.

[@vriloperator]

Each polish scout/soldier/tourist knows what a palatka is and admires its low price, many many uses and decent durability!

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Cheap and durable is a rare and valuable combo in this day in age

[@alphabears6342]

I have a plash palatka. That is a piece that comes with me everywhere. Its always in my rucksack, I use it at the range, I use it for urban exploring, I use it in all of my camping and backpacking trips. Also, if you truly wants to make it waterproof but is not afraid of the extra weight, you should wax one side. So far, I did not have any issues with it in the rain and getting wet.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Mine has stayed pretty water repellent so far, but if it starts to fade after a while, I will use wax, or even a candle, to add back some hydrophobia qualities to the canvas

[@Ozarkwonderer]

Having used smaller tarps i think a plow point or dimond lean-to would A give more coverage and B give two walls to better shed rain and trap heat from a fire

[@ritalin1100]

Hi there. That is a interesting review of this rugged gear. Please be aware to wearing this coat the right way with the armslot on the right arm. This will place the toggle holding the end up to be inside. The proofness to rain can be improved by waxing the outside (or what some people do even oiling the outside) which makes the coat water repellent.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Thanks for the comment! I'm left handed, so I have a strong preference for having my left hand free, even if the toggle ends up on the outside of the poncho. Exavos also mentioned waxing the poncho to waterproof it. I will give that a try, since I have a few candles at home. I wonder if that would work for the Gorka-3 as well, since they appear to be the same canvas material.

[@T44m45]

If you want to make the palatka really, really waterrepellent rub a tealight on the outside of it till the whole thing is white with wax from the candle (it might take 2-3 candles). And then heat the palatka with a hairdryer or an iron. I did this to mine about a year ago and it has taken several heavy downpours. This is in fact a close proximation of how they used to waterproof clothes before plastic and oil based raingear. The downside though is that it will get a little stiff. As you use it it will get better however.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

I will check that out, since I have a few tealights at home. I've seen some of the videos of traditional waterproofing methods on Townsends' channel, and it makes sense that candlewax would work to waterproof the palatka. Thanks!

[@NaeMuckle]

Would Barbour wax be better? I've got a Barbour wax jacket and proof it every autumn.

[@_s_9920]

@@NaeMuckle yes

[@johnbrett9929]

Cool. Thanks bro.

[@LosPeregrinos51]

When you pull the shoulder cords together and tie them, as you said, like a boot lace, there should be a convenient toggle on the right hand side (left side the way you wear it) that you pop through one of the loops to prevent the bow from coming undone and the Plash from falling open. The downside is that you have to remember to pull the tail on the OTHER loop for a quick release. As for getting cold - and remember these are worn in RUSSIAN winters - just wear a belt or cord on the outside around your waist like the trappers did with their blanket matchcoats. Holds the heat in.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

The belt is a great idea!

[@mojaverootz6049]

Ordered one from your link and it came in, I love this thing so much.

[@OKBushcraft]

Last fall I made a leanto out the 2, I used a USGI shelter half as a ground cloth, a wool blanket and a Polish Lavvu as a bivy. It was great, uncomfortable but great! My son was in his Lavvu next to me. Looking forward to doing again. Good review.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Thanks, I want to, maybe in the spring, do a hiking pole & two planka shelter. The Lavvu is the polish version of the planka, right?

[@OKBushcraft]

@@MilitaryHistoryGearReview Correct, the lavvu is the Polish teepee version. Its great, just pie shaped. Please record the adventure.

[@FREEDUMB4ALL]

I just ordered one. I plan on waxing mine a couple times to improve the water resistance. Great review thanks for sharing.

[@herbsmith6871]

Good info 🤠 prices have sure gone up 😎

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

I just checked Amazon, and you're right. People have discovered the effectiveness of the plash palatka

[@spoonbruh741]

I bought a Romanian one off Verusteleka for $46 with shipping

[@jelkel25]

I know the Germans used to put their webbing over the top of their zeltbahns as they called plash palatkas if they were being used for warmth purposes and they were on the move. It would stop the draught going up your back while capturing a layer of air for your body to heat up while making movement easier. I can't remember seeing photos of Soviets doing this but you work with what you have when you're cold.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

That sounds like a good idea

[@corleyoutdoors2887]

Informative and beneficial video

[@alphabears6342]

I always have two of those. Also, it does pretty well at repelling downpours. I've used it in two downpours already. I'd you want to be extra certain about it being totally water repellent, then I would consider waxing it with beeswax candle.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Other viewers have commented on the beeswax candle. I just treated it with commercial water repellent spray, but waxing it seems more authentic

[@MTwoodsrunner]

Iv'e got the Plash Palatka and a Veshmeshok but have not used them in the field...i am a bit of a minimalist so i'll need to give them a try...good video...atvb...woods

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

The Veshmeshok is on my short list of items to try out in the future. If I get a great coat, boots and an entrenching tool I will have most of Soviet infantryman's kit.

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

A Russian/USSR soldier would also have his shinel. The wool greatcoat doubled as the soldiers blanket for a long time along side the plash palatka.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Cool! One of my longer term goals is to purchase something close to standard ussr infantryman's loadout, and do a few days with it. Soviet gear post ww2 seemed to work together really well.

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

@@MilitaryHistoryGearReview make sure it is a WW2 style. They were specifically designed with a large pleat in the back to add size when used as a blanket.

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

@Christopher Kavanaugh that is good information! I was leary of ex Soviet Block countries but this is good to know. I previously had a size 48-4 Russian WW2 style that I liked but it was a bit tight and I now have a nice Bulgarian.

[@dereinender1790]

Hey! Just discovered your channel and i really like it! Interesting topics and great explanation! Keep it up! That's quality here! Best regards from germany!

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Thanks for watching! I love hearing from European fans!

[@Taisteluhamsteri]

I have Hungarian version. I used greenland wax to make it more water resistant. Check that out, it does wonders to clothing.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Cool! I'll be sure to check out Greenland wax

[@thatTemplar9934]

I just got one and I love it already awesome vid man thanks a bunch!!🤙

[@tomsgarage4486]

Nice video dude, I'm going use the German pup tent with the official ground sheet I just got from ebay for a solo hike somewhere in the uk soon,I love that cold war stuff.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Thats cool! What is the name of the German pup tent? I would love to try out more old canvas tents. Good luck on your hike!

[@tomsgarage4486]

@@MilitaryHistoryGearReview it's a bundeswehr zeltbarn,its two canvas ponchos that button together to make a shelter or you can use one and do a half shelter.

[@basilwatson1]

Ive got three , had them in a monsoon , no problems , however i use a wax coating ,,just a wax candle rubbed into the planka then ironed at low heat to melt wax .. even without that they are pretty waterproof and I also made a wool blanket liner .. ( also use a duck down hammock blanket as a liner ) and you are warm .. great invention ,,,,,you are on the money with the size though ,,,,, just a inch or so too small

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

The homemade liner is a great idea. That might be a project for a future video. Thanks!

[@elduendeoscuro]

@@MilitaryHistoryGearReview Look at the afghan patoo blanket, perfect with a Plash Palatka

[@jasonbeasy6007]

Underrated video

[@Johann-4354]

Thanks. Real nice.

[@williammelton5215]

1. Spray silicone on it for the rain 2. Buy two of them and take a buddy to make a better shelter

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Take a buddy? Where would I find someone else crazy enough to do that lol

[@williammelton5215]

@@MilitaryHistoryGearReview idk man. My best friend and I enjoy bushcraft and such so we try different gear and “improvised gear” like grilling with a spade over fire. Find someone comfortable with being uncomfortable. Idc what the condition is, you can bear through it with your closest friend. Period.

[@medvedilesnyduch]

Palatka looks good. 💪😉👌

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

It was! Thanks!

[@281covfefe5]

Awesome Looking forward to more uploads enjoying whats already here ! 👍🏻🇺🇸💯

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Thanks 👍

[@Jerkwilkesbooth]

ez sub, excellent review. For a similar multipurpose poncho, would you have any other recommendations besides the plash? Preferring the more durable canvas materials over modern nylon

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

I think the reason so many people love the Plash is that there are not many impregnated canvas tarps being made anymore. Maybe if you wax treated a canvas sheet like a curtain your could approximate it, but honestly, Plash Palatka are not that pricey on eBay or amazon

[@samuelulman7681]

I would recommend East german one. It is similar. You can wear it as cape and use it as shelter half or as a emergency sleeping bag. I got mine for 16 €. Differences? NVA cape have holes for both hands (you can use button to close it if needed) and its not solid color but Strich Tarn (rain camo). Oh boy! Its not water proof but will upgrade it with wax. Its 180 cm X 180 cm. If you need you can send me an e-mail and I will send you photos of it and set up I use for sleeping.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

@The Lonely Wolf True! My most recent video I use a half Laavu as a shelter, and it is actually pretty comfortable

[@LosPeregrinos51]

@@samuelulman7681 The Romanian Army one has two holes as well as inside pockets - €14 (November 2020) from www.militarysurplus.eu Rub the outside with a warmed up wax block and use a hairdryer to melt it in (like a British Barbour Wax Jacket)

[@ProfessionalMusician74]

what panrs did you use?

[@MrCastleJohnny]

how is it a good ground tarp if not water proof?

[@michaelcovelesky5701]

How would you go about cleaning it mine smells

[@ringz7909]

maybe this is a dumb question, but why is there a hole for the non shooting arm? i mean dont i need a hole or st to stick the rifle through, or get my right hand to the trigger? hope someone sees this and answers me :)

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

So I am left handed, so I am wearing it with the hole in my shooting arm. A right handed shooter could easily reverse it back.

[@couchcamperTM]

@@MilitaryHistoryGearReview and I wondered if you got it all wrong, usually the slit is for the right arm (but only because most people are right handed, unlike you and me) The east German version with the rain pattern camo has two slits, so you can wear it "the right way" and not inside out.

[@thebastard890]

@@couchcamperTM he did put it on wrong, the arm hole is supposed to be for the right side.

[@couchcamperTM]

@@thebastard890 we solved that riddle already ;-)

[@pffemeriss3292]

In Bulgaria you can find one of this for 5$

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Damn. I need to visit Bulgaria lol

[@vriloperator]

same in Poland brother!

[@gunther2555]

30bucks is way too much for "plash palatka", i didn't know that this thing came in such a high prise in foreign contries. Just bought one of these a couple of days ago for 14$ and decided that was kinda expensive. (sorry if i made some mistakes still practicing my english)

[@DezorokVa]

Literal translation is плащ(cloak) палатка(tent)

[@RobertsBulgaria]

платка = Handkerchief. I think you meant to say, Палатка.

[@DezorokVa]

@@RobertsBulgaria, right, i am sorry

[@stevencox75]

looks cold at the start of the video, you could cut glass with those

[@albertlevy3721]

I know thus is an old vid but u had it on inside out.

[@MilitaryHistoryGearReview]

Yea. Im lefted handed so thats the best configuration for me. I think historically thats how left handed shooters would wear it

[@williamj.bagnall4564]

You put it on inside out. The armhole is for the right arm, the shooting arm. The flap should go over the opening. You have it so rain will go into the opening. Try here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iH2qonptepynjKc