Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a BDU?
A: BDU stands for Battle Dress Uniform. Designed specifically for combat, these uniforms have been worn by US Military professionals since 1981. The BDU's rugged yet comfortable design makes it ideal not only for military and law enforcement, but for any number of applications where relentlessly durable, battle tested clothing is needed to get the job done.
Q: What is the difference between the Premium BDU and the Discount BDU?
A: Our Premium BDU is made by Propper in their privately owned and operated manufacturing facilities. It is sewn to the exact MIL-SPEC and features a guaranteed 11 stitches per inch, fused collar and pocket flaps, and military grade self-pocketing. The Discount BDU is imported from Asia and sold under the Genuine Gear brand. While still a high quality garment, Discount BDUs are less expensive than their Premium counterparts representing a significant value in the market place. Discount BDU Pants feature a more accessible zipper fly as opposed to the military specification 4-button fly of the Premium Propper brand trousers. Another distinguishing attribute of the Genuine Gear Discount BDU line is that it is the only place you will find the true, uncommonly deep LAPD Navy color.
Q: What is the difference between twill and ripstop?
A: Both twill and ripstop refer to specific types of fabric weaves.
Ripstop is a type of plain weave with coarse fibers ribbed at intervals designed to resist and reduce tears and abrasions (stops rips). It's lightweight and sturdy characteristics boast both wind and water resistance. Originally designed for parachutes, ripstop is the military clothing weave to demand when extreme durability is priority 1. The unique checkerboard pattern of ripstop fabric is not hard to miss.
A twill weave is characterized by distinct, diagonal lines on the surface of the fabric. The inherent uneven texture and design of twill minimizes the appearance of stains and soils. Less interlacings allow the yarns to move with reduced restriction and consequently twill fabrics are more pliable than plain-weaves. The fewer interlacings also enable more tightly packed yarns with high thread counts. These durable high-count twills are wind, water and wrinkle resistant.
Q: What is an ACU?
A: ACU stands for Army Combat Uniform. The ACU replaced the BDU in 2005 as the official uniform of the US Army. The government issue ACU uses a new digital camo pattern called Universal Camouflage Pattern or UCP. The ACU Coat design features a new arrangement of pockets which allow the user to access them even while wearing a tactical vest. ACUs utilize Velcro to affix patches and name tapes. A new slash pocket design increases accessibility and an overall baggier fit is said to be more comfortable on extended combat missions. The mandarin collar can be worn up or down and the permanent press finish eliminates the need to have the uniform professionally laundered. Additional low maintenance features include the new tan suede boots which do not need to be polished or shined. The Universal Camo pattern was designed to operate well in every possible environment and replaces the Woodland and Desert patterns of the BDU. BDU.COM carries the ACU in multiple colors for those who appreciate the design features of this exciting new uniform, but don't necessarily prefer the Universal pattern.
Q: What's the scoop on the Propper Brand?
A: Propper International is the largest supplier of military uniforms to the US Department of Defense. They manufacture authentic, genuine issue, high quality technical apparel... so high quality in fact, that Propper is one of a select few apparel manufacturing companies in the United States to receive an ISO 9001 quality certificate from the British Standards Institute. These garments are military grade through and through.
Q: What makes BDU.COM the best source for Propper Brand Clothing?
A: BDU.COM is relentlessly committed to providing the very best customer service available. As one of Propper's largest dealers we are intimately familiar with the company, the brand, their products and the most efficient way to bring it all to market. If you want to know more please checkout our "Why Buy From Us" page.
Q: Will BDU.COM ship to APO/FPO addresses?
A; Yes, we ship to these addresses via the USPS on a regular basis getting troops in the field the gear they need.
Q: Can I return something if it doesn't fit or if I just don't like it?
A: Yes, it is important to us that your experience with BDU.COM is a positive one every time you shop. Please visit our Return Policy page for more details on returns and exchanges.
Q: Is it safe to buy online from BDU.COM?
A: Absolutely, at BDU.COM your privacy is very important to us. We utilize the very latest in encryption technology to keep your confidential information safe and secure. We will not share this information with anyone and never store your credit card details on our public web servers. Please visit our Privacy Policy page for more details.
If you're still uncomfortable don't hesitate to call us toll-free at 877-789-4400 and we will happily take your order over the phone.
Q: Does BDU.COM offer discounts on volume orders?
A: Yes, we provide official quotes on volume orders each and everyday. We will get your RFQ turned around fast so that you can get the information you need without delay. Our prices are ultra competitive and we have a knowledgeable customer service team in place to back it all up. Please utilize our Request For Quote form and become one of the many businesses, public safety organizations or agencies that considers BDU.COM one of their most preferred and dependable suppliers.
Q: How can I get my hands on the BDU.COM catalog?
A: Simply fill out and submit the Catalog Request form and we'll take care of the rest.
