Uniform Insignia Forum

hello im michael and iv bought some rank insignia but don't know which country they come from or what era there from, is the any way i can find out with out seaching the main site

there are two ways:
first - you can look through the whole site and find them - this will take some time ;)
second - make scans of them and post into the forum - maybe someone more experienced will idenfify them faster

To be more serious ....
Identyfying the totally unknown insignia is not an easy task. The insignia systems used in various countries differ a lot. For example two bars on a shoulder strap could be French Lieutenant or Polish Corporal. Two stars could be US general or Polish 2nd lieutenant or Russian WO.
If the insignia contains any special device like Polish zig-zag pattern or Italian "graeca" for generals or any coat of arms - it's easier. Also I can say that crossed battons or sabres suggest senior (general / marshal) rank. Separate category are hard shoulder boards with vertical color stripes - this leads to Russia or countries under Russian (Soviet) influence. Various shpulder cords suggest German influence but be aware - a lot of South American countries use this model.
So in general it is not easy .....
Even more complicated with the combat (subdued) variation of insignia.

I think this topic could start a discussion about comparing insignia systems in use throughout the word....