The Ghillie Suit: A History, Uses, and our Guide for Stunt & Action Actors

The Ghillie suit is a type of camouflage clothing that is designed to help military snipers blend into their environment. However, it has become popular among hunters, paintball enthusiasts, and even Stunt & Action Actors who need to remain hidden while performing stunts and action scenes. In this article, we will explore the history and uses of the Ghillie suit and provide a guide for Stunt & Action Actors to create their own suit. Let's get started...

​The Ghillie Suit: A History, Uses, and Guide for Stunt & Action Actors
The Ghillie suit is a type of camouflage clothing that is designed to help military snipers blend into their environment. However, it has become popular among hunters, paintball enthusiasts, and even Stunt & Action Actors who need to remain hidden while performing stunts and action scenes. In this article, we will explore the history and uses of the Ghillie suit and provide a guide for Stunt & Action Actors to create their own suit.

History of the Ghillie Suit
The Ghillie suit has a long history that can be traced back to Scottish gamekeepers who used similar clothing to blend into the natural environment while hunting game. The word "Ghillie" comes from the Scottish Gaelic word "gille," which means "servant" or "lad," and refers to a gamekeeper or outdoor servant who would wear such clothing. Over time, the Ghillie suit evolved into a more elaborate form of camouflage used by military snipers during World War I.

During World War II, the Ghillie suit became even more advanced, with the addition of materials such as burlap and jute twine to create a more realistic appearance. Today, Ghillie suits are used by military snipers, hunters, paintball enthusiasts, and Stunt & Action Actors who need to remain hidden while performing their roles.

Uses of the Ghillie Suit
The primary use of the Ghillie suit is to help individuals blend into their environment, making them more difficult to spot. This is particularly important for military snipers who need to remain hidden while scouting enemy positions or taking out targets. In addition, hunters and paintball enthusiasts use Ghillie suits to help them blend into their surroundings, making it easier to stalk and take down their prey.

For Stunt & Action Actors, Ghillie suits can be used to add an extra layer of realism to their performances. Whether they are playing the role of a sniper, a hunter, or a military operative, a Ghillie suit can help them look the part and stay hidden from the audience's view.

How to Create Your Own Ghillie Suit
If you are a Stunt & Action Actor looking to create your own Ghillie suit, there are several materials you can use to achieve the desired effect. Here are the steps to create your own Ghillie suit:

Step 1: Choose a Base
The first step in creating a Ghillie suit is to choose a base material. This can be anything from a lightweight mesh shirt to a heavy-duty jacket, depending on your needs. Some popular options include military-style BDU (Battle Dress Uniform) jackets, hoodies, or even wetsuits.

Step 2: Choose a Camouflage Pattern
Once you have a base material, you need to choose a camouflage pattern that will help you blend into your environment. There are many different camouflage patterns to choose from, including woodland, desert, and urban. Choose the one that best matches your intended environment.

Step 3: Choose Your Camouflage Material
The next step is to choose your camouflage material. The most common materials used are burlap, jute twine, and natural foliage. You can also use synthetic materials such as synthetic burlap or fake leaves to achieve a more realistic effect.

Step 4: Attach Your Camouflage Material
The final step is to attach your camouflage material to your base. This can be done by tying or sewing the material onto the base, or by using a hot glue gun to attach the material directly

Look twice. Learn once. Adaptive camouflage is possibly the most powerful weapon.
​While the use of Ghillie suits can be traced back to Scottish gamekeepers, it was actually the Scottish military that introduced the suit in its modern form. During World War I, Scottish snipers were tasked with infiltrating enemy lines and taking out targets from a distance. They quickly realized that their standard-issue uniforms and equipment did not provide adequate camouflage in the field, and they began to experiment with different types of clothing and materials.

One of the solutions they came up with was the Ghillie suit, which consisted of a base layer of clothing covered in strips of burlap or jute twine. The loose-fitting material allowed the wearer to move more freely, while the strips of material broke up the outline of the wearer and helped them blend into their environment. The Scottish snipers found that the Ghillie suit was highly effective, and it quickly became a standard piece of equipment for snipers in many militaries around the world.

While there is no definitive proof that the Scottish military was the first to use Ghillie suits, the fact that Scottish snipers were using similar types of clothing during World War I suggests that they were likely the originators of this type or method of camouflage. Today, Ghillie suits remain an essential piece of equipment for military snipers, hunters, paintball enthusiasts, and Stunt & Action Actors who need to remain hidden while performing their roles. By following the steps outlined in this article, you too can create your own Ghillie suit and experience the benefits of this highly effective form of camouflage.

Before you go, this is good to know
​While Ghillie suits can be highly effective in certain situations, there are also some potential downsides to wearing one. Here are some of the risks and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Heat Retention: Ghillie suits are designed to be loose-fitting and covered in material, which can trap heat close to the body. This can be a problem in hot or humid environments, where the extra insulation can cause the wearer to overheat and become fatigued. In extreme cases, this can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
2. Water Retention: The material used to cover a Ghillie suit, such as burlap or jute twine, can absorb water and become heavy when wet. This can be a problem in wet or rainy conditions, where the extra weight can make it difficult to move or even cause the wearer to sink in deep mud. In addition, wet clothing can increase the risk of hypothermia in cold weather.
3. Limited Mobility: While Ghillie suits are designed to break up the outline of the wearer and help them blend into their environment, the loose-fitting material can also impede movement and make it more difficult to perform certain tasks. This can be a particular problem for Stunt & Action Actors who need to move quickly and perform complex actions while wearing the suit.
4. Maintenance: Ghillie suits require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. The material used to cover the suit can become frayed or tangled over time, which can affect its effectiveness. In addition, the suit may need to be washed or dry-cleaned periodically to remove dirt and debris that can accumulate in the material.
5. Safety: Ghillie suits can also present a safety risk in certain situations. For example, in densely wooded areas, the suit can become caught on branches or other obstacles, which can cause the wearer to trip or fall. In addition, wearing a Ghillie suit in public places, such as urban areas or public parks, can cause alarm or concern among members of the public who may mistake the wearer for a threat.
   
   

In conclusion, while Ghillie suits can be highly effective in certain situations, there are also potential risks and downsides to wearing one. Before deciding to use a Ghillie suit, it is important to consider the specific circumstances in which it will be used and weigh the potential benefits against the risks and challenges.

Now you know, lets gear up!