Army sleeping bags are not just ordinary sleeping bags. They have to be tough, easy to unravel and pack, light, durable, and not use a lot of space. In other words, the byword in all army sleeping bags is convenience over luxury.

However, compared to the original army sleeping bags created for use in World War II, which was an extremely good sleeping bag even up to today, several modifications have been made to improve on the design.

The one factor that has remained constant though is the fill or insulation used. In 1942, they already adopted the use of down feathers to keep the soldiers warm during those cold winter weather days. The shape used was mummy-like because it uses less space and can be stored easily. In addition, the mummy-shaped sleeping bags help keep the body warm since it practically hugs the body and promotes heat.

The reason for the army sleeping bags made of down feathers is the fact that this material is light, comfortable, and can keep a person warm even in the most extreme conditions.

Interestingly also is the quick release device that allows a person to unfold the sleeping bag with a flick of the hand and the casing which is water resistant. This makes this kind of sleeping bag ideal for mountaineers and serious campers.

The updated versions of the original army sleeping bags made of down feathers is the sleeping bags for the moderately cold and the extreme cold. Then the modular army sleeping bags were introduced in the 1970s.

If you compare the army sleeping bags made of down feathers with the mass produced commercial versions, you will see a distinct difference in the quality and standard. For one, most commercially produced sleeping bags are not equipped to handle extremely cold weather conditions; and they absorb water easily. This makes army sleeping bags very much in demand. They provide soft and comfortable sleep without having to actually bring a lot of beddings to make the ground softer.

Contrary to popular opinion among amateur campers, the army sleeping bags made of down feathers can be found easily on the internet. If you’re lucky, you can buy a brand new one at a very reasonable price. There is also a big chance of finding a used army sleeping bag at an even cheaper price.

Another great advantage is, if properly cared for, down sleeping bags are very durable and will last about twice the amount of time as a synthetic one.  This is important to keep in mind when making a final decision on which sleeping bag to buy.

One disadvantage to a down sleeping bag is that is requires more maintenance and care.  It will either need to be hand washed or put into a front load washer at a laundromat.  Either way they must be handled with care as to not ruin the down.

Another disadvantage to down is if it gets wet it take a lot longer to dry.  So if you are going to be in wet conditions a synthetic fiber fill sleeping bag may be a better choice.  Or you can add a water resistant shell to your down fill sleeping bag.

One final disadvantage to down sleeping bags is that they are more expensive than synthetic ones.  So if you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider a synthetic one.  However, keep in mind that a down sleeping bag, if properly cared for, will last longer and provides a lot of warmth and comfort, as well as being very light weight.  So when it comes to choosing a sleeping bag, go for overall quality if you can afford it.

Down sleep bags use real down feathers for their fill.  There are three main types: hi-loft down, duck down and goose down.  Hi-loft down is made out of finer goose down and provides the most warmth.  For expeditions in cold weather high-loft is recommended.  Goose down is a higher quality than duck down and is therefore a bit more expensive, but for regular camping they are both good choices.