John Howard Company carries a wide range of heavy duty military spec polyester thread for use in military uniforms, backpacks, hiking gear, tents and outdoor gear. Military, MIL-Spec, and Tactical polyester thread refers to high-performance sewing thread designed to meet the stringent durability, strength, and environmental resistance standards required for military and tactical applications. MIL-Spec thread is used beyond tactical gear in applications like aerospace components, military uniforms, parachutes, tents, and industrial safety equipment—anywhere that demands high strength, resistance to UV, heat, or chemicals, and compliance with government durability standards.

Call John Howard Company offer a variety of to heavy duty military spec polyester thread for product manufacturers. We invite you to call and speak to a LIVE CONSULTANT who can help you select the perfect tactical thread for your needs!
Phone: 888-564-6469

Types:

I — Twisted soft multiple cord
II — Twisted bonded multiple cord
III — Bonded monocord
IV — Soft air entangled
V — Bonded air entangeled

Classes:

Class 1 — Normal elongation
Class 3 — Heat stable — low shrinkage

TABLE I. Type I Class 1 Thread Requirements

TABLE II. Type I class 3 thread requirements

TABLE III. Type II class 1 thread requirements

TABLE IV. Type III class 1 thread requirements

TABLE V Type IV, soft air entangled thread requirements

TABLE V Type VI, bonded entangled thread requirements

About  Military Specification Polyester Thread

Military specification (MIL-SPEC) polyester thread is engineered to meet rigorous standards for strength, durability, and performance, making it suitable for various applications within the military and beyond. Here are some common uses:

1. Uniforms and Gear: Military uniforms and equipment require strong stitching to withstand rigorous use in harsh environments. Polyester thread, especially if it meets MIL-SPEC standards, provides the necessary strength and resistance to abrasion and fading.
2. Tactical Gear: Items like backpacks, vests, and pouches used by military personnel and law enforcement need sturdy stitching to endure heavy loads and rough handling. Polyester thread ensures that these items remain intact during missions and operations.
3. Outdoor Gear: Polyester thread is commonly used in the construction of outdoor gear such as tents, backpacks, and hiking gear. Its resistance to moisture and UV rays makes it ideal for applications where exposure to the elements is a concern.
4. Parachutes and Safety Equipment: Parachutes require incredibly strong stitching to ensure the safety of the user. Polyester thread provides the necessary strength and reliability for stitching parachute canopies and harnesses.
5. Vehicle Upholstery: In military vehicles, where durability is paramount, polyester thread is used for stitching upholstery, seat covers, and other interior components. It can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use and exposure to various conditions.
6. Aerospace Applications: In addition to military use, polyester thread meeting MIL-SPEC standards may find applications in aerospace, such as in the construction of aircraft interiors, seating, and safety equipment where durability and reliability are crucial.
7. Industrial Applications: MIL-SPEC polyester thread may also be used in industrial settings for stitching heavy-duty fabrics, canvas, and other materials where strength and durability are required, such as in manufacturing processes or for securing loads.

Overall, the primary advantage of MIL-SPEC polyester thread lies in its exceptional strength, resistance to abrasion, and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of military and industrial applications.

Military, MIL-Spec, and Tactical polyester thread refers to high-performance sewing thread designed to meet the stringent durability, strength, and environmental resistance standards required for military and tactical applications.

Here’s a breakdown of each term:

Military Polyester Thread

• Used in gear such as uniforms, packs, harnesses, body armor, and tents.

• Built for extreme environments—UV resistant, abrasion resistant, and chemically stable.

• Typically flame-retardant or used with flame-resistant fabrics (like Nomex).

• Prioritizes long-term performance under field stress.

MIL-Spec Polyester Thread

• MIL-Spec stands for Military Specification, meaning the thread complies with official U.S. Department of Defense standards.

• Examples include:

  • A-A-59826 – for sewing threads used in military textiles

  • V-T-295E – a historic MIL-Spec for general sewing thread

• These threads are:

  • Berry Amendment compliant (made in the USA from domestic sources)

  • Lab-tested for tensile strength, elongation, UV, mildew, and chemical resistance

• Frequently used in government contracts and defense manufacturing.

⚙️ Tactical Polyester Thread

• Tailored for law enforcement, first responders, and civilian tactical gear.

• Commonly used in:

  • Tactical vests, slings, belts, holsters, MOLLE systems

  • Outdoor packs and survival gear

• Strong, colorfast (often in black, coyote, ranger green), and resistant to UV, moisture, and wear.

✅ Key Features of Tactical/MIL-Spec Polyester Thread: