Russian Civil War uniforms (1918–1922)
Russian Civil War uniforms (1918–1922) changed fast: early Imperial stock, improvised clothing, regional gear, and later more standardized Red Army items. Below is a visual catalog of key looks from this period — helpful for history fans, collectors, and reenacting.
Next guide: Soviet Army Uniforms 1923-1936
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Overview of Russian Civil War uniforms
The uniforms of 1918–1922 are a mix of “old army” pieces and early Soviet symbols. You’ll see everything from winter greatcoats and papakhas to leather jackets of commissars and the famous Budenovka used in snowy campaigns.
If you’re interested in WWII uniforms, check here: Best WW2 Uniform
Main features of Russian Civil War uniforms
- Mix of Imperial Russian gear and early Red Army items
- Leather jackets widely used by commissars and commanders
- Regional uniforms preserved by volunteers and national units
- Winter camouflage and Budenovka hats during 1920–1921 battles
Red Army soldier, 1918
He is wearing an early Red Army winter uniform from the Russian Civil War. The long grey coat and papakha hat was standard for 1918, simple and practical for field use. He carries a rifle and a metal kettle, which were common for soldiers on the move.
Red Army soldier, volunteer of the Bashkir Red Army, 1918
This is a volunteer of the Bashkir Red Army during the Russian Civil War. He is wearing a traditional Bashkir-style uniform with a wool hat and a curved saber. Many local fighters joined the Red Army in 1918 and kept parts of their regional clothing.
Red Army commissar, 1918–1920
This is a Red Army commissar from the Russian Civil War period, 1918–1920. He is wearing a leather jacket, which was a common symbol of authority among early Soviet commanders. The leather gear and pistol holster were typical for political officers.
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Red Army company commander, 1919
This is a Red Army company commander from 1919 during the Russian Civil War. He is wearing a black coat, blue trousers, and a traditional wool hat, which were common among commanders. The red sleeve star shows his Red Army affiliation.
Red Army squadron commander, 1920–1922
This is a Red Army squadron commander from the final years of the Russian Civil War. He is wearing a khaki tunic, blue cavalry trousers, and high boots, which were typical for mounted officers. The binoculars and the saber show his role as a cavalry leader.
Red Army cavalry division commander, 1920–1922
This is a Red Army cavalry division commander from the late Russian Civil War period, 1920–1922. The bright red riding breeches and khaki tunic show his high rank and cavalry service. He carries a whip and a saber, common symbols of command among mounted officers.
Red Army infantry rifleman in winter camouflage and Budenovka hat, 1920–1921
This is a Red Army infantry rifleman wearing winter camouflage and a Budenovka hat during the Russian Civil War, 1920–1921. The white overcoat helped soldiers blend into snow during winter battles. He carries a Mosin rifle with a bayonet and basic ammo pouches on his belt.
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Quick FAQ
- Why do Russian Civil War uniforms look so different? In 1918–1922 supply was chaotic, so uniforms mixed old Imperial items, improvised gear, and early Red Army standards.
- What is Budenovka? Budenovka is an iconic early Soviet cap used by Red Army troops, especially visible in winter campaigns.
Summary: These Russian Civil War uniforms show the “wild” early phase of the Red Army — before everything became fully standardized. Great reference for reenacting, collecting, and historical research.
Please check next guide: Soviet Army Uniforms 1923-1936
If you’re interested in 1968-1991 uniforms, check here: Field 1968-1991 Uniform
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