Interesting, as you usually only see this in decals.    Here are two patches that I have  saved photos of. 

That’s how I see it really, a prop. To be honest, it’s no different to how a production companies wardrobe department may go about creating the illusion of something that is near impossible to get hold of as well as the fragility of a piece due to the nature of its construction. Forgot to post these pics of my progress. Any ripples are just areas that are not yet fully glued down, I’ll gradually fix that in stages, I’ll remove the chin strap rivets as well when I m ready to stick the rayon webbing in. Some of the dark spots in the fabric is just glue drying, some discolouration is fine and will give it a used look. I’m happy so far with this little journey of trial and error. 

Find-a-Grave comes through again (see location 2911327) and here is another picture of  Staff Sergeant Alfred Joseph Holtz:    

QMI is decent for most things, usually right in line or just barely below ATF in quality. Manky’s right, just save up and buy one nice good set 👍

The 2" Meyer aerial gunner looks fine to me. Even though the hallmark is cut off the wing looks fine. You can see the 3" version on my site here: https://www.ww2wings.com/wings/usaaf/gunner/vargasmeyeraafgunner.shtml The pin looks like it might have been re-soldered but it looks good. I wouldn't spend a whole lot on a 2" Meyer Gunner as they aren't that rare and Meyer wings always brings the price down a bit because people are so afraid of the repros.

I checked both of my M1903 Remington's. They have one of each stacking swivel.

Interesting— Thanks.

The Hawley repro will never be perfect, at best it’s usually just stand in prop at best, or a hack job like mine. Yours is looking good so far for sure, the profile looks right, but the best angle is from the side. My goal is to provide a guide for people in the future who wish to do what I have done. Hopefully others will be able to learn and improve on my mistakes. Also, by all means post your attempts and the step by step process here. No need to spread it out, why not just consolidate it all in one thread? I feel that would be best. Good luck in your quest to create one!   Gear Fan

Yah, I love them. Still need to do some campaigning in them, but have been wearing them fishing to get it worn in, cut myself when my friend dropped my M3 on my foot and that’s where all the “accurate blood” comes from. They’ll just look better and better with more use, plan on stenciling my name as well.