Browning Dirty Bird Jacket

While I was at the British Shooting Show, David Stapley of Browning importer asked if I’d like him to send me a ‘Dirty Bird’. Well always having been the sort of chap that never turns such a proposal down, I was delighted to take him up on his generous offer. However, to say I was initially disappointed when the postman came a knocking was something of an understatement ,mainly because it was at that moment I discovered that a ‘Dirty Bird’ was actually one of Browning’s latest hunting suits. That said, just like the companion I was originally expecting, this jacket, bib and brace combination is guaranteed to keep you warm and cosy during those long cold nights.

Realtree Advantage Max4 HD Camo

The one thing I will say from the off is that if you’re the sort of hunter who like me enjoys getting themselves settled into a comfortable location and await their quarry or hunt from on-board a quad, then Browning’s clothing is some of the best to be wearing. Granted the ‘Dirty Bird’ outfit has actually been designed for the wildfowler, the Realtree Advantage Max4 HD camo based around shoreline foliage and it hasn’t been constructed from silent material, the pattern works extremely well in a woodland setting to a degree no passing songbird passed a comment that I could be seen.

Waterproof and Warm

Manufactured from PreVent, a waterproof, windproof yet breathable fabric along with a PrimaLoft insulated lining, a type of manmade goose down; both materials have a great track record in other Browning garments and have been proven to work, I myself able to testify to as to how efficient these fabrics are. But whilst the materials are well established what is new is the design of the jacket and bib. A shorter jacket from the front that extends at the rear to cover the lower back, whilst the camo covers the majority of the suit, large grey panels of easy to wipe clean material have been inlaid down both sides of the jacket, underneath the forearm, the insides of the legs and across the backside, all areas that become soiled when out and about.

Substantial zips, storm flaps and adjustable cuffs keep out the wind and rain as does the high cut collar, a detachable hood that can be adjusted in a variety of configurations and high cut waist of the bib and brace. Unusually though, the bib and brace shoulder straps whilst adjustable aren’t elasticated which rather means once you’re in the outfit, there you remain. And whilst they do their job you must ensure you find the exact amount of tension you’ll need before you slip into the jacket. Lined in soft brown polyester with more pockets than you’re ever likely to need, even on the coldest day all you’ll need underneath is a cotton shirt, normal underwear and maybe a scarf and a pair of gloves, the zips and draw cords all coming together to seal you in against the coldest elements.

Field Tested

Worn extensively during last Spring’s sudden reappearance of the snow and cold weather, as regards the effectiveness of the ‘Dirty Bird’, the design and the fabrics used, all I’ll say is that -9 degrees on a quad at 2am in the morning and I was warm and comfortable. Likewise the wipe clean panels are an excellent idea, dirt, oil, blood and a variety of other contaminates eliminated with nothing more than a bowl of soapy water, a brush and a damp cloth. 

Not the cheapest outfit you’ll ever buy but if there’s one thing I promise when it comes to quality, durability and the fact it’s been designed by hunters for hunters, you’ll go a long way to beat any Browning clothing, the ‘Dirty Bird’ being a prime example. Available separately the parka jacket will set you back around £219, the bib and brace £165 in sizes small to XXXL. For more details contact your nearest Browning dealer or visit www.browning.eu