Is this what Special Flame Carpenter looks like?

[ClassOf56]

Good points. Probably knowing that it is for your own use on a classic boat, they would cut you some slack. I am sure that if you were to start selling them, you have to earn the 'coast guard approved' label with lots of expensive testing and paperwork. Although, I have heard there are LOTS of changes coming in the labeling of all life jackets in the US, so maybe it is all moot.