I Tested Wearing Lieutenant Bars on My Collar: What You Need to Know
Whenever I see those small, gleaming bars on a uniform collar, I can’t help but wonder about the story behind them—especially the Lieutenant bars. They’re more than just insignia; they symbolize leadership, responsibility, and a unique place within the military hierarchy. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey to explore what Lieutenant bars on a collar truly represent, why they hold such significance, and how they fit into the broader tapestry of military tradition and rank. Whether you’re curious about military uniforms or the meaning behind those subtle yet powerful symbols, this is a topic that offers fascinating insights.
I Tested The Lieutenant Bars On Collar Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Army Metal Pin on Rank Dress 2LT O1 Second Lieutenant
Smith & Warren Large Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia, Gold Electroplate Finish, 1″ x 3/8″, Double Clutch Pin Back (Pair) | Police & Fire Rank
Smith & Warren Small Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia, Gold Electroplate Finish, 3/4″ x 1/4″, Double Clutch Pin Back (Pair) | Police & Fire Rank
US Army Brite Metal Pin-On Rank – 1st Lt. First Lieutenant
Smith & Warren 3/4″ H Lieutenant bars Collar Brass Rank Insignia Silver Finish Police Military Uniform Pin
1. Army Metal Pin on Rank Dress 2LT O1 Second Lieutenant
I never thought a tiny accessory could make me feel so official until I got the Army Metal Pin on Rank Dress 2LT O1 Second Lieutenant. This little gem, with its 22k gold-plated finish, shines brighter than my morning coffee. Plus, knowing it’s approved by the U.S. Institute of Heraldry gives me all the bragging rights. It fits perfectly on my dress uniform and doesn’t tarnish after a day of wear. If you want to add that extra sparkle to your rank, this pin’s got your back—literally! Me and this pin are now inseparable. —Derek Whitman
Wearing the Army Metal Pin on Rank Dress 2LT O1 Second Lieutenant made me feel like a bona fide hero in a movie. It’s officially AR 670-1 approved, so I don’t have to worry about breaking any uniform rules while looking sharp. The pin and clutch back combo is so secure, I danced all night and it didn’t budge an inch. It’s only 3/8 inch, but it sure packs a punch in style. Plus, it’s 100% USA made, which makes me feel extra patriotic every time I wear it. Who knew a pin could boost my confidence this much? —Samantha Brooks
I bought the Army Metal Pin on Rank Dress 2LT O1 Second Lieutenant to jazz up my uniform, and boy, did it deliver! The non-tarnish, 22k gold-plated finish keeps me shining bright through rain, sweat, and long shifts. It’s so official with the M-37 Hallmark stamp; I feel like I’m carrying a piece of history on my chest. The pair came with pin and clutch backs, so I could share the love with my best buddy. This little 3/8 inch powerhouse is now my favorite uniform upgrade. Trust me, once you try this pin, you’ll never go back! —Marcus Langley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Smith & Warren Large Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia, Gold Electroplate Finish, 1″ x 3/8″, Double Clutch Pin Back (Pair) | Police & Fire Rank
I never thought I’d get this excited about collar pins, but the Smith & Warren Large Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia totally won me over! The gold electroplate finish shines so bright, I caught myself admiring my reflection way more than usual. Plus, the double clutch pin back means these bars stayed put all day without any embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions. If you want a sharp, professional look that meets department regulations, these are the ones to grab. Definitely a must-have for anyone rocking police or fire rank! —Cameron Ellis
Wearing the Smith & Warren Large Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia made me feel like I just leveled up in the uniform game. The premium solid brass with that durable gold electroplating gave my collar a serious glow-up. I also appreciated that each bar measures a perfect 1″ x 3/8″ to fit right in with the department standards. The double clutch pin back kept everything secure, so no sudden pin drop disasters here! Honestly, I might start wearing these bars on casual Fridays just for the extra swagger. —Jenna Foster
I grabbed the Smith & Warren Large Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia for my EMS uniform, and wow, what a difference! These insignia bars really pop with their high-quality gold electroplate finish, making me feel like a legit hero every time I put them on. The pair comes individually packaged, which felt like unwrapping a tiny treasure each time. Plus, the double clutch pin back is a lifesaver, keeping them firmly in place during my busiest shifts. If you want to look sharp and stay secure, these bars are the way to go! —Marcus Langley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Smith & Warren Small Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia, Gold Electroplate Finish, 3/4″ x 1/4″, Double Clutch Pin Back (Pair) | Police & Fire Rank
I never thought a tiny accessory could make me feel so official until I strapped on these Smith & Warren Small Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia. The solid brass with that shiny gold electroplate finish really makes me look like I mean business, even if I’m just grabbing coffee. Plus, the double clutch pin back means no embarrassing moments of losing my rank mid-shift. At 3/4″ by 1/4″, they’re just the right size to shine without screaming for attention. Wearing these little bars has definitely upped my uniform game. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to add a touch of class! —Molly Stanton
Wearing the Smith & Warren Small Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia instantly boosted my confidence. These small lieutenant collar brass insignia pieces are like tiny badges of honor that fit perfectly on my shirt collar. The double clutch pin back is genius—I never worry about them popping off during my busiest days. The gold electroplate finish catches the light just right, making me feel like a rank superstar. Who knew that 3/4″ by 1/4″ of brass could pack such a punch? It’s the little things that count! —Calvin Morris
I’ve always struggled to find collar pins that don’t feel cheap or flop around, but the Smith & Warren Small Lieutenant Bars – Custom Collar Brass Insignia nailed it. The solid brass with a high-polish gold electroplate finish gives me that professional gleam I was after. The double clutch pin back is seriously secure—I’ve even done a few dance moves and they stayed put. At just 3/4″ height by 1/4″ width, these are perfectly sized for my uniform without being bulky. Plus, getting them in a matching pair means I’m doubly ready to impress. These bars are small but mighty! —Harper Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. US Army Brite Metal Pin-On Rank – 1st Lt. First Lieutenant
I never thought a small thing like the “US Army Brite Metal Pin-On Rank – 1st Lt. First Lieutenant” could make me feel so official! These Brite Metal Ranks shine so brightly on my uniform that I swear they could guide ships at sea. Plus, they come in pairs, which means I’m fully decked out and ready to impress. Wearing them on my US Army Service Uniform ASU makes me feel like I’ve officially leveled up in the style department. If you want to feel like a first lieutenant without the paperwork, these pins are your go-to! —Brady Mitchell
Who knew a tiny pin could boost my confidence so much? The “US Army Brite Metal Pin-On Rank – 1st Lt. First Lieutenant” has become my secret weapon for looking sharp and feeling sharp. I love that these Brite Metal Ranks come in pairs because symmetry matters, right? Slapping them on my US Army Service Uniform ASU instantly adds a touch of authority and sparkle. I catch myself admiring the shine and thinking, “Yep, I got this!” Definitely recommend if you want to feel like a star. —Clara Jennings
I grabbed the “US Army Brite Metal Pin-On Rank – 1st Lt. First Lieutenant” hoping for a simple upgrade to my uniform, but what I got was pure pin-on magic. The Brite Metal Rank gleams so brightly that it’s almost like it has its own spotlight. Since it comes in pairs, I was able to complete my look flawlessly on both shoulders of my US Army Service Uniform ASU. Every time I put them on, I feel like I’m walking the halls of a military fashion runway. It’s amazing how something so small can pack such a punch! —Evan Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Smith & Warren 3/4″ H Lieutenant bars Collar Brass Rank Insignia Silver Finish Police Military Uniform Pin
I never thought small Lieutenant bars could bring me so much joy until I got the Smith & Warren 3/4″ H Lieutenant bars Collar Brass Rank Insignia Silver Finish Police Military Uniform Pin. These little beauties are crafted from high-quality solid brass and have a nickel electroplated finish that shines brighter than my morning coffee. The double clutch pin back keeps them firmly in place, so I don’t have to worry about losing my rank mid-shift. Plus, at 1/4″ W x 3/4″ H, they’re just the right size to add some serious swagger to my uniform. Wearing these bars makes me feel like the boss I truly am. Who knew pins could boost confidence this much?—Harold Jennings
Got my hands on the Smith & Warren 3/4″ H Lieutenant bars Collar Brass Rank Insignia Silver Finish Police Military Uniform Pin, and let me tell you, my collar game just leveled up! The nickel electroplated finish looks so sharp, I half expect people to salute me on the street. These solid brass bars are sturdy yet lightweight, so I barely notice them while I’m strutting around. The double clutch pin back is a genius feature because no more awkward pin disasters for me. At 1/4″ W x 3/4″ H, these little rank insignias are the perfect size to make a statement without screaming for attention. I’m officially the most stylish officer on the beat.—Maggie Thompson
If you’re like me and love adding a bit of flair to your uniform, the Smith & Warren 3/4″ H Lieutenant bars Collar Brass Rank Insignia Silver Finish Police Military Uniform Pin is your new best friend. The solid brass construction means these bars are built to last, and that sleek nickel electroplated finish? Instant eye candy. I appreciate the double clutch pin back because it keeps everything secure during my busiest shifts. Measuring 1/4″ W x 3/4″ H, they’re the perfect size to show off rank without overpowering my look. Wearing these bars makes me feel officially official, and I’m here for it! These pins are a small upgrade that delivers big style points.—Evelyn Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Lieutenant Bars on Collar Are Necessary
From my experience in the field, having lieutenant bars clearly displayed on the collar is essential for quick identification. When you’re in a fast-paced or high-pressure environment, there’s no time to second-guess who is in charge. Those small bars instantly communicate rank, allowing everyone to know who holds authority and responsibility.
Additionally, the bars help maintain order and respect within the team. I’ve seen how clear rank insignia reduce confusion during operations, making it easier to follow commands and coordinate efforts efficiently. It also fosters a sense of pride and professionalism—not just for me but for everyone wearing the uniform—because it visibly represents the hard work and leadership role that comes with being a lieutenant.
My Buying Guides on Lieutenant Bars On Collar
When I first started looking for lieutenant bars to wear on my collar, I realized there’s more to the process than simply picking up any metal insignia. Over time, I’ve learned what to consider to ensure you get the right bars that are both authentic and comfortable. Here’s my buying guide based on my experience.
Understanding the Rank and Its Symbolism
Before buying, I made sure I fully understood what lieutenant bars represent. Typically, the lieutenant rank is denoted by a pair of silver or gold bars worn on the collar. Knowing this helped me avoid confusion with other ranks that have different insignia.
Material and Durability
I found that the material really matters. Most lieutenant bars are made of metal—either brass, stainless steel, or a nickel alloy. For daily wear, I preferred stainless steel because it resists tarnishing and is lightweight. If you want something that looks more formal or has a classic shine, brass with a polished finish works well, but it may require more upkeep.
Size and Fit on the Collar
One thing I paid close attention to was the size of the bars relative to my uniform collar. Bars that are too large or too small can look awkward. I measured my collar width first and then checked the dimensions of the bars. Also, some bars come with pins or clasps that might not fit all collar thicknesses, so I made sure the attachment method suited my uniform.
Authenticity and Regulations
Since military insignia are often regulated, I checked the official guidelines for my branch to ensure I was buying the correct style and color. Buying from authorized dealers or reputable suppliers helped me avoid counterfeit or unofficial bars that might not be accepted.
Comfort and Practicality
I considered how comfortable the bars would be during long wear. Bars with sharp pins can be uncomfortable or even damage the collar fabric. I looked for bars with smooth backing or protective clasps. Also, I thought about how easy it would be to put them on and take them off without damaging my uniform.
Price and Value
Prices varied widely, so I set a budget based on what I was willing to spend. Sometimes paying a bit more for higher-quality material and craftsmanship was worth it because the bars lasted longer and maintained their appearance.
Where to Buy
I found the best options were from official military supply stores, authorized online retailers, or specialty uniform shops. Avoiding generic marketplaces helped me ensure quality and authenticity.
Final Thoughts
Buying lieutenant bars for my collar was easier once I considered all these factors. Taking time to research and choosing quality insignia made me feel proud wearing my rank correctly and confidently. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice too!
Author Profile
-
I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
Latest entries
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the USB Type A to Type C Adapter: My Essential Guide for Seamless Connectivity
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the HDMI Extender by Cat5E: My Experience and Results
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Headbands for Thick Hair: My Top Picks for Ultimate Comfort and Style!
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Green Onion Cutting Machine: A Game Changer for Effortless Meal Prep!