Army Navy Outdoors grades military surplus on four levels: New, Grade 1 (Like New), Grade 2 (Used) and Grade 3 (Excessive Use). New items were never issued. Grade 1 shows no field use. Grade 2 is normal used surplus that works as-is. Grade 3 is heavily worn and may need repair. Every product page lists the item's grade.
Last updated: November 2026
| Grade | What it means | Works as-is? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| New | Never issued. Factory-new military overstock ("dead stock"). | Yes | Buyers who want new-condition gear at surplus prices |
| Grade 1, Like New | Issued or un-issued, with no visible signs of field use. | Yes | Uniform wear, gifting, collectors |
| Grade 2, Used | Normal used surplus with visible wear. Repaired where needed. | Yes | Field use, camping, everyday wear, best value |
| Grade 3, Excessive Use | Heavily worn. Often sold unrepaired. | Not always | CIF turn-in, parts, DIY projects, budget backup gear |
New military surplus was never issued to a service member. It is factory-new overstock, often called "dead stock." Many New items arrive in original packaging. Long storage can leave light dust or packaging marks.
Other sellers may call this: Unused, Dead Stock, New Old Stock, A+.
Grade 1 military surplus shows no visible signs of field use. The item may have been issued or never issued. To earn Grade 1, we check zippers, buttons and buckles for scratches and wear, and the color must be crisp. Minor storage marks are possible. Grade 1 is the hardest grade to find and is priced closest to New.
Other sellers may call this: Grade A, Excellent, Near Mint.
Grade 2 is normal used military surplus that works as-is. Expect visible wear such as stains, fading, markings, surface rust, small holes or frays, and professional repairs. Our sewers and repair team fix functional damage before the item ships. Items marked Vintage are not repaired, to preserve their original condition. Grade 2 is our most common grade and the best value for most buyers.
Other sellers may call this: Grade B, General Used, Serviceable.
Grade 3 military surplus is heavily worn and may not be fully functional as-is. Expect heavy stains or fading, major surface rust, broken zippers or buckles, missing or damaged straps, or large holes and tears. Grade 3 items are often sold unrepaired. Test Grade 3 gear before you rely on it in the field.
Other sellers may call this: Grade C, Salvage, Turn-In Grade.
No. There is no official grading system for military surplus. Each seller sets its own standards, so one store's Grade 2 can be another store's Grade 1. Always read the seller's grade definitions. The definitions on this page are the standard Army Navy Outdoors uses for every graded item.
Grade affects performance. A Grade 1 waterproof jacket should perform like a new one. A Grade 3 jacket may let water through.
Often, yes. Many service members buy Grade 3 gear to replace lost items before turning in at CIF. Turn-in standards vary by installation. Gear with expected wear, like a broken zipper, is often accepted. Gear with missing components, like a missing shoulder strap, often is not. Confirm your CIF's requirements before you buy.
We buy military surplus directly from the U.S. Government and vetted sources. Every item is inspected before packing and graded against the definitions on this page. Clothing is washed and repaired by our in-house sewers when needed. Gear sold as Certified Military Surplus includes free lifetime repairs. See the Certified Military Surplus page for how repairs work.
Product-specific details: Each product page lists the item's grade and any details unique to that item. Questions about a specific item? Email sales@armynavyoutdoors.com or call 904-725-5000. Related: Military Surplus Glossary.
