The pages and articles about military camouflage fabrics are written in English. This helps maintain consistent terminology for camouflage patterns and technical specifications.
Lizard French Camo
Lizard is the French vertical camo, 1947-1980s, with overlapping lizard-like stripes. French TAP 47 pattern influenced many countries. Horizontal and vertical versions exist, used in Algeria, Indochina, and Africa.
History & Origin
Developed France 1947 for paratroops in Indochina. TAP 47 lizard was first. Used in Algerian War, then exported to Africa and South America. Basis for many lizard variants worldwide.
Specifications
- Pattern: 3 colors - Green, Brown, Tan with vertical lizard stripes overlapping
- Pantone: Green 364C, Brown 476C, Tan 7502C
- Fabric: 100% Cotton HBT, Cotton Twill
- Repeat: Vertical 1-inch brush strokes, horizontal overlap
- Variants: Horizontal Lizard, Vertical Lizard, French Lizard
Uses
- Terrain: Jungle, savanna, brush, African terrain
- Branches: French Foreign Legion, French Paras, Greek, African armies, Egyptian early camo similar
- Gear: TAP jumpsuits, bush hats, field uniforms
Why It Works
Vertical stripes break up vertical human shape, overlapping creates depth, effective in tall grass and jungle where vertical lines dominate.
Care
Wash cold, vintage French lizard has brass buttons, cotton HBT shrinks, collectible - original TAP has ink stamps inside.