USMC Hair and Uniform Regulations - A Summary

Recently there was a discussion on the Hairnet Hotline about "high and tight" cuts. Many members of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) proudly wear a "high and tight". On Hairnet there was some debate about whether standards for a "high and tight" cut are set by USMC regulations. The text below is the response posted by a former Marine on Hairnet.

If you're not convinced by this, by all means, read the full regulations including two figures. Thanks to both Gunny and Buzz who separately sent the text of the full regulations to the Buzztown Barber Shop.

There is nothing in Marine Corps Uniform Regulations setting standards for a high and tight and never has been. In fact, the only modification made to male Personal Appearance regs was made in the 70's to specify that no officer could REQUIRE a high and tight ---

1101-1-e states that ;"No male Marine may be required to have his hair clipped to the scalp except while undergoing recruit training or when ordered by a medical officer."

Happily, though, it does add, "This does not prohibit a male Marine from having his hair clipped to the scalp if he so desires."

The only other hair length regulations are modest.

1101-1-a:

"Hair shall be worn neatly and closely trimmed. The hair may be clipped at the edges of the side and back; will not be over 3" in length fully extended on the upper portion of the head; and will be evenly graduated from zero length at the hairline in the lower portion of the head to the upper portion of the head. The back and sides of the head, below the hairline, may be shaved to remove body hair. Sideburns will not extend below the top of the orifice of the ear. Sideburns may not be styled to taper or flare. The length of an individual hair of the sideburn will not exceed 1/8"."

The only other reg is 1101-1-c:
"No eccentricities in the manner of wearing the head hair will be permitted."

It could be argued that a high and tight, though seen every day on enlisted men, and particularly the "mohawk" version (2-3 inches on top, shaved back and sides) is actually prohibited by this reg.

Fact of the matter is the USMC regs are at best vague and even contadictory, designed to allow officers a great deal of interpretive leeway to keep their men looking military to their own standards.

THERE ARE NO CORPS REGS DEFINING A HIGH & TIGHT!!

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