I call on the wisdom of the elders on this board for help with answering these questions…
I bought a pair of Big Mac Olivewood/Spruce Green coveralls a few years ago. They were supposed to be my size (40) and they are, indeed, a 40. Problem is…even at my height of nearly 6’1", the waist on these things is nearly down to my ass. I need to shrink these bad boys up a bit…wondering if anyone knows if washing them in hot and drying them will work…or will that shrink them too far?
Second: what sizes do Big Macs come in? Is there anything smaller than the 40? I’m imagining there’s a 38, but…with my height I’m thinking they’ll be too short on the leg.
Finally: anyone know where I can get a good Lamont knife replica without having to sell the farm to get it?
Not an elder by any means, but I’ve seen Big Macs in smaller then 40 (34, 36, so forth)… The 40 usually is indicative of the chest size, not length (which is usually indicated by Short (S (small)), Regular (R (medium)), or Tall (T(large)). I’m not positive if Big Macs came in extra tall (xl) but it’s possible. I’m guessing your Pair is a 40 Tall, while a 40 R might be a better fit (or like you suggested a 38 tall, since the waist sits lower). It could be a combination of both the chest size being too large as well as the overall coverall size (s,r,t size)… Finding the best coverall fit is sometimes a pain. Took me one bad purchase, to find a great size that fits me perfectly.
Finding Vintage Big Mac’s is usually a struggle in and of its self, so it might be plausible to have your older pair tailored (might be cheaper then finding a new pair). They could probably measure you up and tell you the perfect combination.
If you want to try and shrink it a little, follow this how to:
I know JC has some awesome Lamson replicas… Other then that, possible eBay (or just buy a real lamson, or even a Dexter (debate on which was the hero knife, with Lamson slightly edging out Dexter). I’ve seen a few other members here and on youtube making replicas, but their names escape me at the moment.
What’s the length of your Big Macs? Sounds like you definitely need a shorter length. My Big Macs have both the chest size and the length listed on the tag. I’m 5’10", 155lbs, my Big Macs are 40/30 (chest size 40/length 30), and they fit PERFECT.
That’s a good question. I’m pretty confident in saying all Big Mac coveralls predating the 1980s are “penn-prest” or “no iron” treated. If your pair is vintage, once this herringbone cloth is stretched or worn out, it’s toast. This occurs on heavily utilized pairs or when worn by those who are overweight. If you have a later pair, some are also treated but perhaps the standard twill will give in a bit to heat, though I have not tested this. Also, the waist will sag when the elastic band found within is stretched or worn out. With some sewing disassembly & surgery, you can replace the elastic waistband(s) and retain snugness again, at least in the waist, which will hopefully sit higher, as well.
I’ve seen Big Mac coveralls sized 34 to 50 & beyond. I’ve read smaller sizes exist. This number mainly refers to differences in the waist & chest. Height, not so much. Height variation is affected by the letter found after the sizing, “S (small)”, “R (regular)” or “L (large)”. The height difference in my experience is by an inch e.g. “R” arm/leg inseam measurements could be 19"/29", “S” could be 18"/28" & “L” could be 20"/30". Many also forget that workwear coveralls’ sizing usually is gauged assuming you are wearing street clothes underneath. Physically trying on different pairs of different conditions is really the only way to find that perfect fit that works for you.
Building your own can be fun & something new to experience. I had fun making a few knife props. For the finest & most accurate replicas, James (jc_70) produces them for a moderate cost. You will sometimes find preowned replicas, sometimes those made by JC, on eBay or in the Classifieds on here.
Sounds like everyone here knows what they’re talking about.
I have a pair of vintage green Big Macs in a 44T. They fit me in the chest perfectly, but very baggy everywhere else. I’ve thought of getting mine tailored - but I just can’t bring myself to do that to this pair because I lucked up & found them still in the packaging.
If I could have, I’d have taken this thread’s advice to heart & gotten a pair of 44R. I’m a “decent height” - but they’re still kinda long because I’m so skinny, & the screen used pair look to fit a bit short. But - I felt lucky to find what I did, so - I just make 'em work as they are. Besides, it’s usually only us hardcore fans who really pay that much attention
As for the knife - I’ve got a real Lamson & real Forschner - but they are only for display. I’d definitely hit up JC for a replica because toting either one around on Halloween in the midst of a bunch of children just isn’t an option. JC makes them nice & safe, but very real looking. One of these days I’ve got to get me one of those mean looking H20 knives he does up
squidboy makes some good points. These Big Macs & many other brands are generic sizing yet everybody’s figure has its own unique characteristics & features. If shrinking, hemming (chest/legs) or elastic repair doesn’t do the trick, I will reiterate again; keep trying different pairs. We’ve all been there. You got lucky squidboy! It took me at least 10 pairs or more to find what I consider a “somewhat-perfect screen accurate” pair for myself
I got them a few years ago via JCPenney.com…which is part of the problem. I was unable to try them on, but I wanted an ACTUAL pair of Big Mac coveralls. Nowadays, I can’t seem to find them anywhere…even online.
So, I’m sort of stuck with what I have…which is why I was wondering about shrinking them down via washing them.
Whatever the case…thanks for all the suggestions and help, everyone! I really appreciate it!
Ha, well. I’ll be honest they fit me really nice… Screen accurate? Almost…
Problem is, I’m not screen accurate.
Sadly, I’m not really built like Castle or Warlock, I’m a little more stocky (thick neck, chest) then that vogue 70s/ 80s skinny ( I’m more average, then skinny). My Current coverall size is a 42 R (I’m 5’10, and weight is about 175).
If I could drop 20-30 pounds, then perhaps I’d be more accurate… haha
In case anyone cares…I washed the Big Macs in hot and dried them on Permanent Press and PRESTO…they shrunk down to the perfect size! Thanks for the tips and help, everyone!
Now if you could assist in getting JC to contact me about a knife replica…!
