Special Presentation

STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Greetings fellow cosplayers, its your boy Ace of Snakes, and this here is a special presentation for a Major Ocelot Cosplay guide, created and put together by my good friend Elyse from the Metal Gear Solid cosplay community! Complete with what Ocelot's outfit consists of, his gear, and recommended supplies needed to become your very own Meowing Major!

The cosplay itself consists of:

• Jacket
• Breeches
• Belt for Breeches
• Beret
• Wig Cap
• Scarf
• 3 misc. Pins
• Boots and Spurs
• Arm band
• Bullet Necklace
• Revolver 
• Bandolier
• Holster

Supplies Needed:

Fabrics and Parts:

• Red stretchy fabric - scarf, hat, and gloves

• Leather/Faux leather fabric - Arm band, hat rim, bandolier, holster

• Black Thread, sewing kit, and machine

• Buckle - Bandolier

• Fake Bullets x30-40 - Bandolier

• Interfacing - for bandolier, epaulets, and ribbon rank

• Red Ribbon and Gold skinny ribbon for trim - his many awards, badges, and epaulets

• Small Gold stars - for epaulets and badge

• Quarter (coin) sized gold military buttons - buttons for his collars.

• Misc. Colored Ribbon Scraps - For long rank badge

• Safety pin - Rank badge and Purple Diamond badge

• Unused enamel pin or pin back - small gold star pin

• Craft Foam - Purple if you have it.

• Bullet keychain and chain - bullet necklace 

• Wig Cap - For hair 

Paints:

• Silver Spray Paint - For the revolver

• Brass Spray Paint - Bullets

• Copper Paint - Bullets

• Purple Paint - For diamond badge as needed.

• Red sparkle paint - for diamond badge as needed.

• Gold Paint - For the back of stars and for other badges as needed.

• Brown paint - for revolver handle

• Yellow and white fabric paints - for a wig cap to make a short hair illusion.

Glues:

• E6300 - Glue for assembling 3D revolver

• Fabric Glue - For gluing down bullets

• Black Fabric Dye or/and Dye remover as needed - Depending on what uniform you bought, you’ll need to strip the dye and then redye the jacket and pants.

• Hot Glue and Gun - badge assembly 

Tools:

• Sewing machine

• Sewing needle

• Hot Glue Gun

• Lighter

• Seam Ripper - To take off buttons and pockets from the jacket

• Exacto-Knife or Scissors

• Sand Paper - For sanding down a 3D printed revolver, Get multipul grits from 60 down to 200 or 1500 for a very smooth finish. 

Uniform

Jacket and Breeches:

Jacket: Link

Breeches: Link

Jacket:

The jacket itself is a military officer’s uniform from Austria, sometimes called a tunic. Now, Ocelot does not have any visible closures on his uniform, and the uniform I got, I chose for the cut and pocket placement rather than for the color. If you could find this in black I would highly

recommend it.

Ocelot’s jacket uniform has a high collar that is not like what modern jackets have; he has no visible closures and two side pockets by his hips. So what I did was I used a seam ripper to take off the top pockets, take off the buttons from the top pockets and down the front of his jacket, and take out all the hot lining material inside the jacket.

OVERHEATING WARNING!: The jacket I used is wool. It is very hot. If you plan to wear this in heat, find a cotton or linen substitute. Even after taking out the lining, I sweat a LOT in this outfit.

Breeches:

The pants are Jodhpurs or sometimes called breeches or trousers. They are riding pants often used for military officers or horseback riding back in the day. The modern jodhpurs are sleek and aren’t the style you’re looking for. You want military ones for officers’ uniforms. I bought mine from a separate site. It is ok if they come up a little short on your legs since your boots will cover them. The ones I used were similar to 1960’s East German Dress Breeches/Trousers.

Belt for breeches:

You can use a leather belt with a square buckle or a flat top steel buckle to make this. The jacket also will hide any belt you use to keep your breeches up. So you can wear what ever belt you want or have for that.

Modifying the Jacket and Breeches

    

This step is dependent on the uniform colors: Your jacket and breeches should be from the same brand, otherwise it's very likely the colors will differ. If the colors do not match, you will need to strip the dye out of them with dye remover (not bleach), and then buy the corresponding black dye for the fabric type. To use the dye, the directions should be on the bottle but most dyes are a mix of either vinegar or salt and very hot water.

Behold, the soup!

Then you will want to wash it before you sew to see if it came out the right color. Don’t be afraid to let it drain, dry, and then wash it later to let the dye set in. You can always dye it again darker if needed.

** DYE THE UNIFORM BEFORE ADDING MEDALS, EPAULETS, AND RANKS. **

Shoulder Epaulets and Collar Tips:

The shoulder pieces are made from fabric interfacing covered by large 2 inch wide red ribbon and gold skinny ribbon trim about 1/8th of an inch down the middle. I cut the interfacing to the shoulder size I wanted, then hot-glued the ribbon to the interfacing. A smoother glue, like fabric glue, may take longer to dry, but may yield a smoother, less bumpy result. Then I added the gold ribbon down the middle. After I glued down three small nickel-sized gold stars on each epaulet, I sewed the epaulet down the middle to attach it to the jacket. If you want them to be removable, you can use Velcro. If your stars are not the right color or shade you want, you can prime them with Mod Podge or paint primer and repaint them.

The collar tips are the same structure as the epaulets. It is a ribbon that I used over the interfacing again and the gold trim is around the edges. I also sewed them in place by sewing around the edges and then glued the gold buttons down on the middle tip. I kind of just smushed them till they were flat enough to use.

Small Square Badge:

The small square badge is just a folded-up red ribbon with another gold star glued onto it with that same gold trim ribbon we’ve been using. Just glue it down onto an unused enamel pin about 1” by 1”, and then because it has a pin back, you can already attach it to your jacket.

Diamond Purple Badge:

PIC NEEDED

The purple diamond badge is trickiest since it has a unique shape. I cut mine out of craft foam with an exacto-knife, but you can use scissors. I then painted the diamond part purple with white swirl paint mixed in to give it depth but you don’t exactly have to. I also added sparkle paint to give it a glint. You could also use a gem if you found one in this shape. Then I used red sparkly paint to add the small red glint at the top. Finally, I glued a safety pin to the back of it vertically so I could attach it.

Rank Badge:

His rank badge is made from a strip of interfacing that I colored entirely black with Sharpie or black fabric paint. It doesn’t matter, then once dry. Glue down the various ribbon parts onto it. It's just several scraps that correspond to color. You can even color one with ink if it isn’t the right color. I got most of mine from a nearby scrap store called Scrap-lanta. Be sure to color them before you glue so the ink doesn’t bleed. You can use fabric glue but hot glue wouldn’t bleed ink if you want to be safe. Then hot glue the large safety pin to the back so you can pin the rank to your jacket.

Military Beret:

The hat is a beret typically seen in Army SEALs or special ops. I made mine from a real beret that I covered with the same red fabric you can use to sew your scarf, so they match better. I just basically wrapped it around the preexisting Berrett hat and sewed it down in place, and then used spare leather fabric to sew around the edge of the hat to give it a leather rim. The wool padding of the beret makes it easy to shape and pad.

Wig Cap:

His hair is super short and blonde, so instead of buzzcutting my hair short, I wear a wig cap, the same kind that's made out of stocking material, and I painted it with white and yellow fabric paints in a multi-layered way to give the illusion of hair. Using a dry large brush and dry brush technique, you should be able to make it look like many strands of hair. 

Scarf:

His scarf is a simple long strip of red fabric I folded over itself in a long rectangle and then sewed each end so it would nicely hide the seam. I left the ends a little frayed and sewed a safety stitch just behind it to make it look worn and scarf-like instead of just a scrap of fabric. I used the same fabric I used to wrap his hat, so that it would match.

Gloves:

For the gloves you can purchase red fabric or leather gloves.

Alternatively, you can use the same red fabric used for the scarf, and gloves. You can use any basic glove pattern from online. You just outline your hand with about an inch margin on two pieces of the fabric and then sew the shape together then turn it inside out.

Boots and Spurs:

Any kind of boot for this works, but I use winter boots I have had for forever but you don’t need real leather boots for the look. As long as they are dark brown or black.

The spurs I use are real, but check your local con/venue rules for its policy on metal parts. I bought mine off of eBay.

Armband:

The arm band is made of the same leather as the holster and bandolier (more on those later), and it is just a rectangle sewn with both ends together and sized to fit around my arm. If your arm size fluctuates, you can add snaps or velcro and just use that to attach it to itself.

Bullet Necklace:

The bullet necklace is a bullet keychain I purchased from an army store in FL, but you can get yours online. All you need is to put it on a simple chain like that used for a dog tag. 

Gear

Revolver:

The revolver I have is a 3D print I got on Etsy for an Arthur Morgan cosplay. As many Ocelot fans know, it is a Colt Single Action Army Revolver. The name of the one I used is “3D Printed 1873 Single-Action Cattleman Toy Revolver”. I sanded it down with various sandpapers, including a final wet sandpaper method. Then I spray-painted it silver and various shades of brown for the handle. The only part I did not sand is the handle. Then I used E6000 to glue it together, which has a 24-hour dry time.

Bandolier, and Holster:

I made my bandolier out of interfacing and faux leather fabric. The kind I used is most frequently used in couch upholstery. What I did was I cut a long strip of interfacing fabric about the size of a belt, wrapped it in the interfacing fabric, and sewed it into the interfacing fabric. I also ensured there was enough fabric at the end with no interfacing in it where I could attach the small belt buckle. I also poked holes in my belt so I could ensure the buckle could clasp.

Bullets: Link

The bullets are plastic ones I ordered online that I painted. I took out each soft plastic tip and tapped each bullet down to a large piece of cardboard, and spray-painted them in a brassy gold color. Then painted the bottoms as well. Once dry, I painted each tip in copper and then black-washed each bullet in black watery paint.

Assembling the Bandolier

Once the bullets are painted, you just need to lay each bullet down onto the belt you made and glue them in place. Once in place, you can glue down another strip of leather fabric you have along the top of them, tucking the fabric into place until its settled. Then they’re secure, and you won’t lose them at the convention.

Holster:

The holster is probably the item that will require the most sewing skill. If you want, you can simply buy a holster for your revolver, but I wanted to sew mine to match my bandolier. I laid out my gun on the leather fabric and traced out its shape twice, mirrored to itself. I then also cut a slightly smaller interfacing piece to go with it. Then I cut one more leather piece to sandwich the interfacing between the two pieces. I only sewed the edges and then the end parts together. I also added a small leather scrap to each side and sewed it in place so I could hook it onto my belt or bandolier if I wanted to.

I used this basic shape for the holster pattern. Sew the outer left and right edges together, leaving the top and bottom open for the gun. 

Reference Pics

Metal Gear Solid 3/Δ Snake Eater Naked Snake Big Boss Cosplay Guide

Introduction

Greetings fellow cosplayers, my name is Ace of Snakes (formerly BlueLaguna88), and you've come across my guide on how to cosplay Naked Snake aka Big Boss from Metal Gear Solid 3/Δ: Snake Eater. 

Cults3D Link: For my 3D print files (Less fees, plus you get access to updated files even after your purchase!)

Etsy Link: For my 3D print files (Lots of fees and unfortunately Etsy doesn't give access to updated files, use Cults3D instead.)

If you're interested in my props but don't have the capability to print them yourself, message me on Instagram or send me an email at aceofsnakescosplay@gmail.com, and we can arrange something. (I will only ship to the Lower 48 States. Sorry for the inconvenience)

Instagram Link: aceofsnakes

As an FYI, I am not an Amazon/eBay/AliExpress/Proper affiliate, and I do not earn from purchases via e-commerce companies, only from my own 3D files. I would not steer you to inaccurate items just to make an extra dime.

Snake is both a complicated, and expensive cosplay to put together. However, once completed, it is very satisfying to wear! Most of the equipment can be obtained at military surplus stores, and online via Amazon, eBay and AliExpress. This guide will suggest the most accurate pieces of equipment, however there are plenty of cheaper alternatives out there. 

Now that MGSΔ was announced, I will do my best to update this guide to include the newer gear in the remake.

For reference, I am an average 5'11", 180 pound American male so my sizing will be in Standard.

Before we get started, I would like to give a shoutout the original pioneers of Naked Snake/Big Boss Cosplay guides, myself and other Big Boss cosplayers could not have done it without you guys! Plus other guides that have been published since this guide in 2015, I recommend checking them all out!

Crumaharashop - (Defunct Link)

Ne0Ven0m - (Defunct Link)

Muldoonx9's Guide

The Ronin's References
QueenToast Creations

Also, a special thanks to vietnamgear.com for their extensive encyclopedia of Vietnam gear and reference photos.

Be sure to check out the Cosplayer Spotlights after the conclusion!

And last but not least, a very special thanks to Hardmode Enabled for reaching out and collaborating on a cosplay guide video! Go check their channel out, they have other great cosplay guides for other videogame characters as well.

Snake Reference Pictures

 

Clothing

Military Fatigues

Price: $60-140

Propper Uniform

Moore Militaria Uniform

Link: Propper Coat

Link: Propper Pant

Link: Moore Militaria Shirt

Link: Moore Militaria Trousers

I sought advice from a militaria expert, and they pointed me to the Tru-Spec 100% Cotton Rip-Stop Original Vietnam Tiger Stripe. 

- UPDATE AS OF 02/24/2025: Unfortunately, Tru-Spec has discontinued the Original Vietnam Tiger Stripe. You can still find them second-hand on eBay, Mercari, Poshmark, Grailed, Depop, etc., but it's going to take some digging and patience to find them.

A close second would be Propper's Asian Tiger Stripe BDUs. My 2015 photos at the end of this guide has me wearing the Propper's camo, so you can get a good look of how it looks with the whole getup.

Another set that has been recommended to me from various sources are the "John Wayne Dense (JWD) Tiger Stripes" reproductions from Moore Militaria. Now I cannot personally attest to these but from what I've seen and what other members from the MGS community they look the part, just a little more on the pricier side and sell out often. 

There are a few small differences between modern BDUs and the Advisor Cut Snake uses: First, neither modern BDU pants or coat have the cigarette pocket on the left arm/left pant leg. Second, the BDU coat has two front pockets located at the waist area, whereas the Advisor Cut only has the two chest pockets. This is honestly your most obtainable alternative to the originals, otherwise, you would be shelling out an easy $1K if you are lucky enough to find a vintage set in decent condition. There are however, mostly identical reproductions on eBay for about $140, but I have no experience with those, so you are on your own.

Since Snake uses many different patterns throughout the game you can essentially go with any pattern as long as your coat and pants are of the same brand. Two different brands of the same pattern will not match.

Do not forget to roll up your sleeves right above your elbows. 

Compression Shirt
Price: $20-30

Snake's under-suit is a thing of fiction, closest would be a wetsuit but You are not going to find one that is 1:1 to the game, at least not that I have seen. A compression shirt will work just fine as an alternative.

Search for a base layer compression shirt with a turtleneck/mock turtleneck. The mock turtleneck is where your Throat Mic will strap around.

The easiest place to find compression shirts will most likely be a sporting goods store or Amazon. I like using a brand called "Henri Maurice" from Amazon (Pictured above) but I have not seen them produced in black in quite a few years. Some of the ones you will find online are in Asian sizing so make sure you pick your correct size.

Try to find one without a logo or a logo that would not be visible under your fatigues. If it does happen to have a logo, you could remove it: If its printed on, you can use acetone/nail polish remover and rub it on the logo over and over until it falls off. If its stitched on, unstitch or color it.

P.S. I also recommend compression underwear as well. They feel great on your John (and Jane) Does!

Now, if you are looking to be 100% accurate down to the detail, there is lettering, "Direct Action Suit DPSC-94-C-1872" lettering on the forearm and eyelet holes on the elbows. I've seen some cosplayers add PU leather Sleeves to their undershirt, as seen in Muldoonx9's guide. I did not bother with those details myself.

(I will add Delta screenshots to show the eyelets and lettering in the near future)

Rothco Leather D3-A Type Gloves
Price: $20-25

Snake wears M1949 Gloves with the thumb, index, and middle finger tips cut off at about the second knuckle, as well as eyelets on the backside. I did not bother with the eyelets myself.

Rothco Leather D3-A Type Gloves look practically the same. My hands are of average size so I went with size 4.

The following steps are not necessary for modifying the gloves, but I highly recommend following them to preserve the longevity of the stitching when cutting off the fingertips: Flip the gloves inside out so the stitching is visible. This is tough to do, you will need tools to push the fingers inside out. Mark the gloves with something you can remove (like tailor's chalk) a little under your second knuckles of your fingers and cut the tips off at the markings. Re-stitch or glue alongside the seams of the cut fingers so they do not come undone. Then, flip them back the right way.

(I will add Delta screenshots to show the eyelets in the near future)

Knee Sleeve

Price: $15-20

I recommend using the Copper Fit knee sleeve, but any black compression knee sleeve will work. I use XL so that it slips on and off my knee more easily. If there is a logo/branding, remove it.

P.S., it is very thin and does not provide any padding, so keep that in mind. Now that I am getting older, sometimes I will also use an actual knee pad under my pant leg, and as VenomousPicklz commented below, it does help your leg look less chicken legged.

Alternatively, like the undersuit sleeves, you could make one out of PU leather and add "Direct Action Suit DPSC-92-T-520" lettering at the top.

(I will add Delta screenshots to show the lettering in the near future)

Rothco GI Type Jungle Boot
Price: $45-50

When it comes to the boots there are two I can recommend based on my own personal experience: If you're looking for the most bang for your buck, I recommend Rothco (Left Picture). They are easier to obtain at a good price. However, they are not the best for support.

Now that I am getting older, the Rotchos just don't cut it for me anymore, my back was killing me by the end of the convention. Now I use McRae's Tropical Boots (Right Picture), they are bit on the pricier side ($200) but my back has never thanked me so hard.

Some reviewers say get a size smaller, others say get a size bigger. I wear mostly size 9.5 shoes but I ended up with an 8R. (military boots do not come in half sizes.)

I HIGHLY recommend getting insoles that work for you, Rotcho does not come with any and the insoles that come with McRae are basic. Your lower back and feet will ache if you don't use adequate insoles. Everyone is different, and you will need to do your own research based on your physical needs to find the perfect insoles.

If your boots still feel slightly loose even with insoles, I recommend wearing thicker or doubling up on socks. It should make your boots nice and snug.

Bandana and Eyepatch
Bandana Price: About $4 for fabric. Commissioned bandana prices may vary.

Eyepatch Price: Prices may vary.

Ah yes, the bandana, Snake's signature article of clothing. Depending on which concept art/ in-game models/ HD art you want to follow, you should go with either olive drab, dark blue or blueish-grey fabric. Most fabrics at craft stores have a width of about 60 inches which is plenty to tie around your head.

You want to make sure you have enough cloth to cover your brows and forehead. Measure the distance from the bottom of your brow to your hairline, double that measurement, then add about half an inch to an inch, as you'll need that extra half an inch/inch for when you stitch/glue the fabric together.

Fold the bandana in half length-wise and stitch/glue the bandana closed. Then, flip it inside out so the seams don't show, then stitch/glue the ends shut.

If you're looking for a bandana with the furrow detail and more thickness, TDOPro Cosplay on Instagram makes really nice ones and is currently the one I am using (Photo above). He also makes other leather goods, so lead times may vary depending on his schedule. Message him on Instagram for more details: TDO Pro Cosplay Instagram page

For the eyepatch, you can also contact TDOPro. Etsy is also another great place to find high quality eyepatches. (I currently am not using one of his patches, but they are high quality!)

I do not recommend getting a medical eyepatch from a pharmacy, they're way too big.

Individual Load Carrying Equipment

Stabo Harness

Price: $50-500

Link: Parachute Harness Buckle Kit

Link: Type 13 - Nylon Webbing

Link: Type 8 - Nylon Webbing

Link: Stabo Harness - Hub City Outdoors LLC

Hands down the most important, but also the most expensive/rarest piece of his outfit; the Stabo Harness. A real Stabo Harness will cost you at least $500, if you can even find one in decent condition.

The in-game harness is black, however, the real harnesses Special Forces used only came in olive drab.

Hub City Outdoors LLC carries fantastic reproductions in black for $300 (used to be $250 😞 ). This is what I am currently using for my harness and highly recommend them. They sell out often so keep an eye open for restocks.

Another option would be making your own, however, you will need a powerful sewing machine as the nylon webbing is thick. I provided links in this section to the hardware and webbing. You have to spend a $25 minimum to ship, but that should provide you with plenty of webbing.

Alternatively, if you find a surplus Parachute Harness, you can get most if not all the buckles you'll need to make the harness.

And for a cheaper alternative/for those in countries where it is harder to obtain the buckles, Nakamura Productions makes STL files for the buckles.

Type - 13 Webbing is thick, sturdy and the exact webbing used for real Stabo Harnesses.

Type - 8 is thinner but easier to work with. 

A bit of caution when using Type-8: my prior harness was made from Type-8 and it would constantly loosen and sag down due to the weight of the load carrying equipment. You would likely need to tape the bottom near the V-buckles, just like Snake does in the original Snake Eater.

In the near future, I will be making a tutorial video on how to make a Stabo Harness, however I am not a tailor/seamstress, so I am not comfortable commissioning them, but I hope my video will be clear enough for you to make your own or have it commissioned.

M1956 Individual Equipment Belt
Price: $9-50

Snake uses a M1956 Individual Equipment Belt in olive drab with a horizontal weave pattern and brass ball-end buckles. These are hard to come by in decent condition.

M1956 Universal Small Arms Ammunition Pouch

Price: $10-40 each pouch

Snake is equipped with two M1956 Universal Small Arms Ammunition Pouch. I currently use the 2nd pattern (Pictured above). The 2nd pattern works better for storing and removing its content as opposed to the 1st pattern which was really stiff due to the plastic stiffener in the front wall's lining.

If your pouches have stale odors, place an open box of baking soda in each pouch for about a week or two to help the smell. Plus it'll help reform its box shape. You can also use sturdier cardboard to help reform its shape.

M1956 1 Quart Canteen and Cover

Canteen: $10

Pouch: $20-$30

The plastic canteen is probably the easiest piece of equipment to obtain. You can get a new one anywhere that sell camping and military supplies.

A good condition pouch, however, is a little difficult to come by. Most are faded or soiled from real use. Mine is starting to fade from usage. If you do happen to come by one in nice condition, snatch it up. You might not get that opportunity again.

This is one of the functional features of the cosplay that makes it fulfilling to dress up as Snake. Nothing like filling your canteen with nice cold water (or booze *shhh*, get a separate canteen exclusively for booze.)

M1956 Combat Field Pack 'Butt Pack' - 1st Pattern

M1961 Combat Field Pack 'Butt Pack' - 2nd Pattern

Price: $15-50

In the original MGS3, Snake used a 1st Pattern M1956 Combat Field Pack, aka the 'Butt Pack'. However, in Pachinko and Δ, Snake uses the M1961 Combat Field Pack which is bigger and more efficient.

To maintain its shape and storage capabilities, I inserted a box with an opening that was roughly the size of the pack.

AN/PRT-4 Radio and Radio Pouch

Price: Varies

3D Printed Dummy AN/PRT-4A Radio and Custom Radio Pouch (Left Picture)

Real AN/PRT-4A Radio (Center Picture)

In-Game render of AN/PRT-4A Radio (Right Picture) 

Link: Radio File

The radio Snake uses is an AN/PRT-4A, it is a rare, pricey, and heavy piece of equipment. In the past, I've used it as part of my cosplay and do not recommend. I've since designed a 3D printable dummy radio that is now available to for you to download and print for only $5!

The radio was designed to be clipped onto the d-rings of the M1956 suspenders, and therefore, unfortunately, a pouch does not actually exist. This will be a custom job if you want accuracy.

I custom made a pouch by cannibalizing an old M1945 Combat Field Pack. This was a pain in the ass to make and I will never make another one again. However, I will upload its dimensions and how to make one at a later point.

If creating a pouch isn't within your skill set or simply don't want to go through the hassle, below are three similar (but not accurate) alternative pouches.

German Uzi pouch - the right pouch

Australian M16 pouch - the left pouch

Australian L2A1 30rd Magazine Pouch - the middle pouch

Ne0ven0m's guide recommended the Vietnam Era Australian M16 Ammo Pouch (the pouch to the left) but I found the pouch to be too wide to be a radio pouch, still a great option if this is the only pouch you can obtain. 

I've also discovered, and for a while used an extremely rare Vietnam Era Australian L2A1 30 Round Magazine Pouch (the pouch in the middle). The pouch resembles the radio pouch from the concept art, but it is a tad to tall for the real radio.

In my own research, I've discovered that the German Uzi pouch (the pouch to the right) looks extremely similar to Snake's radio pouch in terms of height, and since my initial suggestion for it back in 2015, it has become the most popular option, including some big named cosplayers. However, the color doesn't match the US pouches exactly, so if you have OCD, this might not be your best option. If you're planning on storing something in the pouch, there are dividers within the pouch that you may need to remove. You can do that by cutting the seams of the dividers located on the front and back exterior of the pouch. Save the dividers, they will be useful for attaching the German Uzi Pouch to the Individual Equipment Belt.

Attaching the German Uzi Pouch to Individual Equipment Belt

It has brought to my attention by ELECTRICALfish in the comments section that it is hard to get the pouch onto the belt, this is correct, it is ridiculously difficult but possible. To get it on easier. you could use dividers you just unstitched and sandwich them on top of one another - or use any webbing - slide them through the pouch's belt loop, then use ALICE clips on material to hold it on the belt. Pics to explain what the hell I am talking about below.

Inserting AN/PRT-4A into the German Uzi Pouch

An AN/PRT-4A Radio will not fit snug in the alternative pouches, but does well enough in the German Uzi Pouch with some manipulation. You may need to cut a hole on the flap of the pouch and slide in the makeshift antenna. Make a "+" shaped incision on the flap of your pouch and slide the antenna through. Thank you to Thjormst from the comments section for showing us its possible, their photos below.

Getting Creative with Alternative Pouches

Makeshift Antenna and German Uzi pouch and battery pack

You could also get creative and fill one of the alternative pouches with something like a power bank (pictured above using a German Uzi Pouch). For a makeshift antenna use anything you could find that's a thin pole, like a flagpole or a thin PVC pipe from a home improvement store. I recommend measuring the length of the pouch, plus the distance from the top of the pouch, to a little above the "X" (cross section) of the STABO harness, and cut the antenna that measurement. Wrap it in electrical tape in a diagonal direction giving it an antenna look, then wrap the tip of the antenna a few times to give it that thicker antenna tip.

Like the ammo pouches, use cardboard to keep its shape.

M1 (M1916) Colt .45 Pistol Holster

Price: $28-40

There are plenty of reproduction holsters that are more affordable and in better condition than their original counterparts. I myself use a reproduction holster.

I recommend obtaining the holster a couple weeks before you plan on using it to break it in or use leather conditioner and/or mink oil.

There are left-handed variants so make sure you read the description carefully and get a right-handed version.

Alternative/Reproduction Sets

Price: Varies

Complete Pouch Set

Colt .45 Holster

Recently, I have seen some amazing looking budget friendly reproduction pouches online such as eBay, Amazon, AliExpress. 

My buddy notoriousbru on Instagram purchased these reproductions on from sofmilitary.co.uk and they look great! A great alternative to the UK cosplay scene. US cosplayers may be subject to tariffs unfortunately, but may be worth checking out.

Snake's Weapons

Colt M1911 and MK22 Hush Puppy
Price: $7-25

Link: Toy 1911 Spray Panting Tutorial

If you are looking for something higher quality and more 1:1, Venn Models makes some really great 3D printed 1911s and other game/movie props for purchase (Pictured Above): Venn Models MGS Props

For 3D printable files, Nakamura Productions also makes great downloadable STLs for the 1911 and other props: Nakamura Productions' Files

Alternatively, if you want something a bit more budget friendly, pictured above is a toy version of a 1911 purchasable on AliExpress and Amazon. This is the most bang for your buck for an easily obtainable replica. You may want to remove the firing mechanism depending on your local convention weapons policies.

I've also linked a spray-painting tutorial by Cosplay Chris on YouTube.

CQC Knife

Price Total: $2.50 for the file

Link: CQC Knife File

Link: Paracord Wrapping Tutorial

Link: Stick on clip

Link: 3D Printing Service

Like many of his equipment, Snake's CQC knife doesn't actually exist either. After hours and hours of research I designed what I feel is a game accurate replica. You can download the print file from my Cults3D page for just $2.50! The downloads include both the Original knife from MGS3 and the new version from Delta.

I use a Marble Knives sheath but unfortunately have not been able to find the one I used online for some time now. Might be custom jobs from now on or search "6-inch fixed blade sheath" to find a more obtainable alternative.

I've also linked a paracord wrapping tutorial (Link above) by me.

I use Velcro to attach the knife sheath to the harness: I used stick on Velcro on the sheath and stitch on Velcro on the harness.

You can also use a stick-on clip (Amazon link above) on the backside of the sheath and simply slide the sheath onto the harness.

Survival Knife and Sheath
Price: $20-50

Link: Ka-Bar Leather Sheath

Link: Survival Knife File

Link: Marbles Marble's Pilot Survival Knife and Sheath

Link: Camillus/Pilot Knife Sheath

Link: Tan Boot Blousers

The survival knife in the game looks like a modified USAF Jet Camillus/Pilot Survival Knife.

Like the CQC Knife, I've also created a 3D printable replica of the Survival Knife! You can download the print file from my Cults3D page for just $2.50! 

For the sheath, I purchased the Marble's Pilot Knife replica that included a leather sheath, smkw.com sells the knife/sheath combo. (Link above)

Tennessee Custom Knives and Leather on eBay sells sheaths for the Survival knife, which looks to be a great alternative, I have not purchased one myself. I posted the link above.

A cheaper/more obtainable sheath is The Ka-Bar leather sheath, it's not accurate but it gets the job done. Whatever sheath you end up going with, get a 6 inch sheath.

In the original game, Snake had his taped to his leg with duct tape, if you do this, you will eventually rip up the leather every time you take off the tape, and make your pant leg sticky, so I do not suggest this. Instead, I use two tan/khaki 2-inch wide elastic boot blousers from the brand Sayre (link above) to secure the sheath to my leg. I know that is not their actual function, and it will depend on the thickness of your leg on how tight they'll be, but but they work great! Alternatively, you could create your own adjustable straps, Snake uses straps in Delta as opposed to tape. 

Snake's Gadgets

Vox/PTT Switchbox

Price: $2.50 for the file

Link: Vox/PTT Switchbox File

Like the CQC knife, this particular Vox/PTT Switchbox is also a thing of fiction. You can download the print file I designed for just $2.50!

Like the knife sheath, you'll need to use velcro on the backside of the Switchbox and velcro on the harness as well.

Throat Mic and Earbud

Price: $2.50 for the file

Link: Throat Mic and Earbud

The Throat Mic is one of the more fun pieces of the cosplay, as it coincides with the Vox/PTT and ANPRT-4A Radio bringing out cool look of Snake's com system! Above is a link to my designed Throat Mic and Earbud!

You will need 3/4 inch (20mm) webbing to clip around your neck. Plenty of good kits that don't require sewing on Amazon. As well as a generic/replacement earbud tip for the earbud. Alternatively you could just use whatever earbud you like, you don't have to use the one included with my throat mic.

The throat mic prints flat, and unless you're printing in flexible material such as TPU, etc., you will need to thermo-bend it to a curved shape to fit around your neck.

*** Please be cautious and do not place hot plastic against your skin! ***

You can connect the Vox/PTT Switchbox to the Throat Mic, Earbud and AN/PRT-4A using 3.5mm aux cables. Depending on your height/size, you'll need to use about 1.5 to a 2 foot long aux cable to connect the switchbox to the throat mic and earbud each, and probably 2 to 2.5 foot long aux cable, again depending on your height/size, from the switchbox to the radio.

How to put on the cosplay

I will update this section in the near future on how to properly wear the equipment.

Optional Add-ons/Accessories

Cardboard Box

Price: IDK... Free?

This is self explanatory, lol.

Calorie Mate

Price: $6 individual - $60 for 20 pack

Link: JapaneseTaste.com

These are a fun snack to have. You can buy them from Japanese Taste for like $60 + Shipping and other fees.

I've tried them all.

Cheese: Tastes like blue cheese.

Chocolate: Tastes like a spoonful of coco powder.

Fruit: Tastes like stale lemon cakes. 

Maple: Tastes like pancakes.

Plain (Discontinued): Tasted like a combo of potatoes and apples.

Vanilla: Tastes like a vanilla cookie.

My favorites were Maple and Vanilla.

As a bonus, you can keep the Calorie Mate boxes as props. Also, if you're using the 1956 Butt Pack, you can cut an opening off the top of the giant Calorie Mate box and place it inside the butt pack to keep its square shape!

Blue Eye Contacts
Price: $25-50

I've experimented with them, they're definitely a fun add on but not necessary, I'm not used to contacts (20/20 vision) so my eyes got irritated by the end of the day.

Face Paint

Price: $5

 I don't bother with it.

Cigar

Price: $1?

Buy any cheap cigar from a gas station or convenience store. Snake smokes Cuban cigars.

Mullet Wig

You don't necessarily need to add a wig to your cosplay. I've tried the Jett wig from Arda years ago when I first started cosplaying Snake, I did not like it. If you can grow out a mullet, fuck yeah! Do it!

Conclusion

Well, fellow Fox Unit, that just about wraps up the cosplay guide for Snake. I hope it was enjoyable, and easy to follow. If you have any questions, recommendations, or concerns, comment below, email me at aceofsnakescosplay@gmail.com, or message me on Instagram! If you found this blog helpful, please consider purchasing my 3D files! I like to keep this guide ad-free, and its like buying me a shot of tequila but you also benefit from it!

Cults3D Link: For my 3D print files (Less fees, plus you get access to updated files even after your purchase!)

Etsy Link: For my 3D print files (Lots of fees and unfortunately Etsy doesn't give access to updated files, use Cults3D instead.)

Cosplayer Spotlights

If you would like your cosplay to be featured reach out to me via email or message me on Instagram! I would love to see the cosplays I've helped create!

IG: erikthebrownie

IG: LakeKSteel

IG: misterdodgee

IG: scipper54

IG: the.greek.scoutrooper

Handle: Thorjmst

IG: waffeman

See you at the Cons!

- Ace of Snakes

Circa 2022 - Present

Circa 2015