Where to Buy Military Uniforms and Gear at a Corps Store

What a Corps Store is and what you'll find there

A Corps Store is a retail location run by or affiliated with a military branch or service academy that sells uniforms, insignia, and authorized gear to active-duty service members, veterans, and sometimes civilians. The most common Corps Stores operate at military installations, service academies like West Point and the Naval Academy, and some standalone locations in military towns. They stock items you cannot easily find at civilian retailers—dress uniforms in regulation colors, rank insignia, unit patches, and specialized equipment that meet military specifications.

Unlike general uniform suppliers, a Corps Store carries items specific to each branch's standards. An Army Corps Store will stock Army Combat Uniforms (ACUs) and dress blues in the exact shade and fabric the Army requires. A Navy Corps Store will have Navy Working Uniforms (NWUs) and dress whites. The staff typically understand military regulations and can help you navigate sizing, fit, and what is and is not authorized for your rank and branch.

Key Takeaways

• Corps Stores are located on military installations, at service academies, and in some military communities, and they sell branch-specific uniforms and authorized insignia.
• You can usually shop in person at a Corps Store if you have a military ID or can show proof of service, though some locations allow civilian purchases.
• Many Corps Stores now operate online storefronts or partner with mail-order suppliers, so you do not have to visit in person to order.
• Prices at Corps Stores are often lower than civilian uniform retailers because they buy in bulk and do not carry the same overhead costs.
• Staff at a Corps Store can advise you on what uniforms and insignia are regulation for your rank, branch, and duty status.

How to locate a Corps Store near you

The easiest way to find a Corps Store is to search online for "[Your Branch] Corps Store" plus your city or the nearest military installation. For example, searching "Army Corps Store Fort Jackson" will show you what is available at or near that base. If you live near a service academy—West Point, Annapolis, the Air Force Academy, or the Coast Guard Academy—those locations have Corps Stores open to the public during business hours.

If you cannot visit in person, contact the installation's main phone line and ask for the Corps Store or uniform shop. They can tell you whether they ship orders, accept phone orders, or have partnered with an online retailer. Many installations now use third-party vendors to handle online sales, so the Corps Store may direct you to a website rather than taking orders directly.

What you need to bring or show to shop

Access rules vary by location. Most Corps Stores on active military installations require a military ID—yours or a family member's—to enter the base and shop. If you are a veteran without a current military ID, bring your discharge papers (DD Form 214) or a veteran health identification card. Some Corps Stores allow civilians to shop if they are accompanied by someone with military ID.

Standalone Corps Stores in civilian areas typically do not require ID but may ask for proof of service if you want a military discount. Call ahead to confirm what the specific location accepts. If you are ordering online, you may be asked to upload a copy of your military ID or discharge papers during checkout, depending on the retailer's policy.

Types of uniforms and gear available

A Corps Store stocks uniforms for every duty situation: daily work uniforms, dress uniforms for formal events, physical training gear, and cold-weather variants. They also carry the small items that are easy to lose or wear out—socks, t-shirts, belts, and undershirts in regulation colors. Insignia and rank badges are always in stock, and many Corps Stores can sew them on for a small fee or do it while you wait.

Beyond uniforms, you will find authorized accessories: name tapes, unit patches, medals and ribbons, dress shoes, and in some cases specialized gear like cold-weather jackets or rain gear approved for your branch. The inventory depends on the size of the store and the branch it serves. A large installation Corps Store will have more selection than a small one, but you can usually special-order items that are not in stock.

Pricing and discounts

Corps Store prices are typically lower than civilian uniform retailers because they buy directly from manufacturers and operate with lower overhead. A dress uniform shirt might cost 20 to 40 percent less at a Corps Store than at a civilian military outfitter. Active-duty service members, retirees, and veterans often receive an additional discount—usually 10 to 15 percent—though the discount varies by location and retailer.

Some Corps Stores offer seasonal sales or clearance events. If you are ordering online, check whether the retailer offers free shipping for orders over a certain amount or has a loyalty program. Prices are generally fixed, but it is worth asking whether a discount applies to your status before you check out.

Ordering online or by mail

Many Corps Stores have moved to online ordering, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. You can often browse and order from the installation's website or from a contracted vendor's site. The process is similar to shopping at any online retailer: select your items, enter your size, and proceed to checkout. Shipping times vary—some orders arrive in three to five business days, while others take one to two weeks depending on whether the item is in stock.

If you prefer to order by phone, call the Corps Store directly and speak with a staff member. They can help you find your size, confirm what is in stock, and process your payment over the phone. This method works well if you are unsure about sizing or need advice on what to order.

Sizing and fit guidance

Military uniforms are cut differently from civilian clothing, and sizing can be tricky if you are ordering without trying things on. Most Corps Stores provide sizing charts on their websites or can email you one. The chart usually includes chest, waist, sleeve length, and inseam measurements. If you have worn a military uniform before, use your old size as a reference.

If you are ordering online and unsure about fit, many Corps Stores allow returns or exchanges within a set period—often 30 days. Some will refund shipping costs if the item does not fit, while others charge a return shipping fee. Read the return policy before you order. If you can visit in person, try things on first; most Corps Stores have fitting rooms, and staff can adjust hems or make minor alterations on the spot or within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shop at a Corps Store if I am not active duty?

Yes. Veterans, retirees, National Guard members, and reservists can shop at most Corps Stores. Some locations also allow family members of active-duty service members and civilians who are accompanied by someone with military ID. Call the specific location to confirm their access policy.

Do Corps Stores sell civilian clothing or just uniforms?

Corps Stores focus on military uniforms and authorized gear. They do not typically carry civilian clothing. Some locations may stock items like t-shirts or jackets in military colors that can be worn off-duty, but the primary inventory is regulation uniforms and insignia.

Can I get my uniform altered or tailored at a Corps Store?

Many Corps Stores offer basic alterations like hemming pants or sleeves, and some can sew on rank insignia or name tapes. Services and costs vary by location. Ask when you purchase your uniform whether alterations are available and how long they take.

What if the Corps Store does not have my size in stock?

Most Corps Stores can special-order items that are not in stock. You will typically pay at the time of order, and the item will arrive within one to three weeks. Some locations charge a small fee for special orders, while others do not. Ask the staff for the timeline and any associated costs.

Do online Corps Store orders require a military ID to purchase?

Requirements vary by retailer. Some online storefronts ask you to upload a copy of your military ID or discharge papers to verify your status and receive a military discount. Others allow anyone to order without verification. Check the website's policy or contact customer service before you place an order.