The following is a basic equipment advisory for those who desire to become Civil War Reenactors. It does not replace Unit Guidelines but can be used as a checklist when determining what would be needed to start in the hobby. Do not purchase any equipment until you have determined which unit you will be joining . At that point, consult with Unit leadership and determine what type of equipment is required.
Requirements vary greatly in relation to type and quality.
This advisory deals primarily with the Union Infantry Reenactor although it does give an overall sense of what is required for other impressions. As a normal course of events, one does not have a lot of money to spend on a hobby, especially at first. It is, however, important that the reenactor strive toward authenticity, although authenticity has different levels depending on the Unit. Almost everyone, however, will be very tolerant of a relatively new recruit. Many units or members of these units have spare equipment that is available for loan until the recruit can purchase the necessaries.