Uniform, Equipment and Weapons information
Luftwaffe Jump Smock
The very nature of a paratrooper's deployment demands the use of protective clothing to prevent equipment or clothing becoming entangled on a part of the
aircraft or an opening parachute. German Fallschirmjäger were no exception to this rule. Three patterns of jump smock were manufactured at various
times during W.W.II and a number of variations were based on two of these patterns.
Second Pattern Jump Smock
The green second pattern parachute smock's still had to be stepped into. A difference from the first pattern smock was that is was manufactured in different
versions like gray or with camouflage material. Luftwaffe patterns varied slightly from army patterns with the overall scale of pattern size being smaller. It
was also a distinct improvement on the first pattern with the smock unbuttoning down the entire front with the addition of two zip pockets positioned on the
chest and two thigh pockets were positioned horizontally across the front of each leg. These pockets were concealed by flaps, which lay over the openings.
Some of these smocks were manufactured with a concealed holster positioned on the right hip at the rear of the smock. This smock can only be worn by
founding members of our unit.
Third Pattern Jump Smock
The third pattern smock is the smock that is used in this unit. The third pattern parachute smock's main difference from the first and second pattern smocks
was that you no longer had to step into it. The two different versions are made from green splinter pattern material (on a tan dominant background or green
dominant background) and later from the tan "water" pattern camouflage finish. This version is a little longer than the original first and second patterns. It
was also a distinct improvement on the first and second patterns with the smock unbuttoning down the entire front with the addition of two zip pockets
positioned on the chest and two thigh pockets were positioned horizontally across the front of each leg. These pockets were concealed by flaps, which lay
over the openings. Some of these smocks were manufactured with a concealed holster (for a flare gun) positioned on the right hip at the rear of the smock.
Insignia on Smocks
Insignia worn on the jump smock consisted of the Luftwaffe eagle worn on the right breast with the National eagle being worn in limited numbers by army
paratroopers. Rank insignia similar to that worn by Luftwaffe flight crews was worn on both upper arms. Medals and decorations were not generally
permitted to be worn on smocks but photographic evidence exists of cuff titles such as the "Kreta" "Afrika" and "Kurland" titles being worn.
Helmets
The Fallschirmjäger steel helmet was a revolutionary new design when first introduced and incorporated three basic design features that were essential to
airborne troops. It had to give a certain amount of protection from gunfire and shrapnel, it had to be able to resist hard knocks which could be encountered
on difficult landings and third it had to be designed so as not to snag in any of the shroud harness or rigging of the parachute. This design was to influence
to British paratroop helmet and as with the army style helmet is still influencing helmet design to this day.
The result of these needs was a completely different shape to the Model 1935 steel helmet used by the Army and Waffen SS. The shell was almost rimless
and the classic German paratroops helmet remained virtually unchanged through out the war. The actual shell was made out of steel alloy and was heavier
than the army steel helmet and contained a different liner made from resilient leather which had twelve circular ventilation holes, backed by rubber pads and
held in position by a band of flexible aluminum which was secured to the shell by means of four bolts, two situated on the side of the shell and two at the
back. The chin strap and neck support was made of gray leather and was held in position by these four bolts.
Para helmets was normally finished in rust proof field blue paint with the Luftwaffe eagle situated on the left side and the national colors of black red and
white on the right side of the helmet. In the field however a variety of colors adorned the helmet including sand yellow which was used in North Africa and
Italy as well as whitewash which was used on the eastern front.
The early issue helmets were of a blue-grey color with the national colors (black/white/red) on the right side and the silver grey Luftwaffe eagle on the left.
The national colors were ordered removed early in the war. As the war progressed the helmet color was changed to grey-green. In North Africa, Italy and
other Mediterranean areas, tan and brown was used. Textured finshes were also used for camouflage purposes on all fronts, including sand, sawdust, fine
stone grit etc. These finished were usually mixed in with the paint. Helmets were painted in camouflage patterns and steel chicken wire covers or large holed
netting were used in camouflage techniques. Candidates must check with the unit when choosing a finish for their helmets. We want to maintain a diversity
without leaning too much towards the unique finishes. A member is assigned to each candidate for help in these areas.
Ammunition Bandoleers and Pouches
A piece of equipment issued exclusively to Fallschirmjäger was the ammunition bandoleer. Due to the fact that paratroopers would often be without supply
for lengthy periods, the need for large amounts of ammunition to be carried by individuals was evident. To meet this demand canvas bandoleers were issued.
They consisted of two rows of ten pockets joined by a wide band of canvas. These pockets could carry a clip of five rounds for the Kar 98K rifle. Later
with the introduction of the FG42 Paratroopers assault rifle a new type of bandoleer was manufactured with two rows of four larger pockets which was
designed to hold a single magazine each for the FG42.
Bandoleer Worn around the neck, the bandoleer rested against the body and was held in place by two loops of cloth, which were tied to the leather waist
belt. They were manufactured in all styles of colors including gray, pale green, field blue, splinter camouflage or tan water pattern.
Ammo Pouch Mauser ammo belt pouches were worn later in the war especially by the FJ Pioniers. Many times the pouches were worn with the bandoleer
simply to provide room to carry additional ammunition.
MP40 Magazine pouches were worn in on the belt. Each pouch contained pockets for three individual MP40 magazines, each holding 32 9mm rounds. They
contained D rings that allowed the Y-straps to attach to the rear of each pouch. Early pouches were Luftwaffe Blue, later pouches green or tan.
Field Gear
The Field gear consisted of the gear a German soldier would take into combat supporting him in his combat role. Items like Y-straps, gas mask bags,
grenade bags, holsters and more though not weapons were important items allowing the soldier to carry equipment into battle while keeping his hands and
arms free to participate in actual combat.
Y-straps The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included Equipment Straps that hook into a D-ring at the center of the Fallschirmjäger's belt
near the small of his back. The straps are then brought over the shoulders where they hook into either the ring on the reverse side of an ammunition pouch
or a D-ring.
Pistol Holster Every Fallschirmjäger carried a side arm. Either the Luger P08 or The Walher P38,the holster for these side arms were worn on his belt, on
the left side. Luger Holster, P38 Holster
Breadbag The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included a Breadbag, which was worn on the belt on the right rear side. In this bag the
Fallschirmjäger would carry his rations. Can be either Luftwaffe blue or Heer green.
Gas Mask Bag The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included a Gas Mask bag, which was different then the Gas Mask canister carried by most
German soldiers. This bag could be worn like the canister over the head and shoulder where it would be attached to the belt in the rear, or it could be worn
right at chest level in the front. This method was more common allowing quick access to the Gas Mask. Usually made of a green material.
Grenade Bag An item worn by some Fallschirmjäger, especially Pioniers to carry large numbers of grenades. This bag would be worn over the shoulders
where each bag would hang between the side and the arm allowing quick access to the contents. Usually made of a green or splinter camoflage material.
Canteen The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included a water bottle (canteen). The canteen was usually clipped onto the rings, that are located
on the breadbag.
Knives and Edged Weapons
From Hand to Hand combat to being used as tools to cut one's self out a chute harness, every soldier needs a knife for day to day activity.
Gravity Knife The gravity knife is designed to allow one handed operation by depressing a thumb lever and pointing the knife downward allowing the blade to
fall into place. Once the blade was in place the thumb lever could be released and the blade would lock into place. The knife was produced in a take down
version and a non-take down version.
K98 Bayonet Standard Issue Bayonet worn on the left rear of the belt. Designed to mount on the front of the Mauser K98.
Fighting Knife used by German military forces during WWII, wooden handle with clasp on scabbard allowing the knife to be work on a belt, inside a boot,
on the smock, almost wherever the wearing wishes.
The Field Blouse Uniform (Fliegerbluse)
The Fliegerbluse was introduced in 1935 to all members of the Luftwaffe. It was shorter than the service tunic, had one row of hidden plastic buttons and
initially had no side pockets. Rank insignia and the Luftwaffe Breast Eagle were as on the service tunic. The Fliegerbluse was worn for a flying service
uniform for NCOs and men, a field dress for NCOs and men and a service dress for NCOs without portepee and men. It was very popular with the
Fallschirmjäger.
The Jump Trousers
The pants are made from wool. They have three pockets on the front, two rear pockets and a gravity knife pocket on the right pant leg. Two of the front
pockets are slanted with scalloped pocket flaps which close with press studs. one is located on each leg. The third pocket also has a scalloped flap which
also closes with a press stud, however this pocket is horizontal and is smaller. It is located between the right front pocket and the button up fly. It is used
for a pocket watch. The two rear pockets are horizontal with a scalloped flap these however are buttoned. The gravity knife pocket is a vertical pocket with
an inner pocket for the gravity knife. The flap is secured by two press studs and the flap is somewhat angled. There are also two vertical slashes secured by
three press studs each. One slash per leg on the side of the pant leg. These allowed for access to the knee protectors. (Photo Courtesy of At the front!)
Insignia - Breast Eagle
Breast Eagle The air force version of the national emblem was worn over the right breast pocket with the swastika overlapping the pocket flap. It was
machine in matt-grey thread for NCOs and men, but could be hand-embroidered on non-issue (private purchase) tunics. The breast eagle for officer ranks
was in hand-embroidered aluminum thread and for general rank in hand embroidered gold thread.
Shoulder Board The shoulder boards for the Fallschirmjäger consisted of standard Luftwaffe shoulder board trimmed in gold yellow. This was worn on the
Fliegerbluse, attaching with a button after sliding the board under a loop on the shoulder.
Collar Tab The collar tab for the Fallschirmjäger consisted of standard Luftwaffe collar tabs with the birds and trim when required. The color is gold
yellow in accordance with the shoulder board trim. The "birds" attach to the collar tab via metal tabs.
Belt and Buckle
Belt The standard belt was made of leather, usually brown or black, with a single hook on one end and a second piece of leather stiched on the other end.
This piece of leather had rows of 2 holes side by side. These holes are used to attach the belt buckle to the belt. Officer belts were made of leather with
rows of 2 holes side by side.
Belt Buckle The Luftwaffe NCO or enlisted man's belt buckle can be steel, aluminum, while being painted grey,or maintaining the metal finish. It has a clasp
soudered on the rear where the belt hook attached. It also has 2 metal points on a shaft that rotates. These points are used to attach the belt to the buckle.
Officer buckles were different being open with 2 shafts for attaching to the belt.
The Einheitsfliegermutze – M43
M43 In 1943 to replace the Fliegermutze, the Einheitsfelmutze was introduced. This cap was manufactured from field blue woolen cloth and had a cloth
covered peak. It was similar to the army style replacement cap in having the eagle and cockade embroidered onto a single piece of material and stitched to
the front of the cap. If the wearer found that the peak got in the way of operating certain equipment then it was permissible to turn the hat back to front.
This cap was forbidden to be worn with walking out dress. Although issued to all Luftwaffe personnel it did not entirely replace the Fliegermutze.
The Feldmutze – M40
M40 Standard field cap issued to non-specialist enlisted men from 1934 until the end of the war. It's a fold-up cap very similar to the American "overseas"
cap. Lining is tan or brown cotton twill on early specimens, giving way to rayon "silk" on later samples. Caps manufactured prior to mid-1942 have a
chevron of rayon soutache in the soldier's branch color (waffenfarbe) on the front. This was eliminated on caps made from mid-1942 until the end of the
war.
Jump Boots
Side Lace Jump Boots
Early Fallschirmjäger Jump Boots, side lace up style.
Front Lace Jump Boots
Fallschirmjäger Jump Boot, front lace up style.
Luftwaffe Jump Smock
The very nature of a paratrooper's deployment demands the use of protective clothing to prevent equipment or clothing becoming entangled on a part of the
aircraft or an opening parachute. German Fallschirmjäger were no exception to this rule. Three patterns of jump smock were manufactured at various
times during W.W.II and a number of variations were based on two of these patterns.
Second Pattern Jump Smock
The green second pattern parachute smock's still had to be stepped into. A difference from the first pattern smock was that is was manufactured in different
versions like gray or with camouflage material. Luftwaffe patterns varied slightly from army patterns with the overall scale of pattern size being smaller. It
was also a distinct improvement on the first pattern with the smock unbuttoning down the entire front with the addition of two zip pockets positioned on the
chest and two thigh pockets were positioned horizontally across the front of each leg. These pockets were concealed by flaps, which lay over the openings.
Some of these smocks were manufactured with a concealed holster positioned on the right hip at the rear of the smock. This smock can only be worn by
founding members of our unit.
Third Pattern Jump Smock
The third pattern smock is the smock that is used in this unit. The third pattern parachute smock's main difference from the first and second pattern smocks
was that you no longer had to step into it. The two different versions are made from green splinter pattern material (on a tan dominant background or green
dominant background) and later from the tan "water" pattern camouflage finish. This version is a little longer than the original first and second patterns. It
was also a distinct improvement on the first and second patterns with the smock unbuttoning down the entire front with the addition of two zip pockets
positioned on the chest and two thigh pockets were positioned horizontally across the front of each leg. These pockets were concealed by flaps, which lay
over the openings. Some of these smocks were manufactured with a concealed holster (for a flare gun) positioned on the right hip at the rear of the smock.
Insignia on Smocks
Insignia worn on the jump smock consisted of the Luftwaffe eagle worn on the right breast with the National eagle being worn in limited numbers by army
paratroopers. Rank insignia similar to that worn by Luftwaffe flight crews was worn on both upper arms. Medals and decorations were not generally
permitted to be worn on smocks but photographic evidence exists of cuff titles such as the "Kreta" "Afrika" and "Kurland" titles being worn.
Helmets
The Fallschirmjäger steel helmet was a revolutionary new design when first introduced and incorporated three basic design features that were essential to
airborne troops. It had to give a certain amount of protection from gunfire and shrapnel, it had to be able to resist hard knocks which could be encountered
on difficult landings and third it had to be designed so as not to snag in any of the shroud harness or rigging of the parachute. This design was to influence
to British paratroop helmet and as with the army style helmet is still influencing helmet design to this day.
The result of these needs was a completely different shape to the Model 1935 steel helmet used by the Army and Waffen SS. The shell was almost rimless
and the classic German paratroops helmet remained virtually unchanged through out the war. The actual shell was made out of steel alloy and was heavier
than the army steel helmet and contained a different liner made from resilient leather which had twelve circular ventilation holes, backed by rubber pads and
held in position by a band of flexible aluminum which was secured to the shell by means of four bolts, two situated on the side of the shell and two at the
back. The chin strap and neck support was made of gray leather and was held in position by these four bolts.
Para helmets was normally finished in rust proof field blue paint with the Luftwaffe eagle situated on the left side and the national colors of black red and
white on the right side of the helmet. In the field however a variety of colors adorned the helmet including sand yellow which was used in North Africa and
Italy as well as whitewash which was used on the eastern front.
The early issue helmets were of a blue-grey color with the national colors (black/white/red) on the right side and the silver grey Luftwaffe eagle on the left.
The national colors were ordered removed early in the war. As the war progressed the helmet color was changed to grey-green. In North Africa, Italy and
other Mediterranean areas, tan and brown was used. Textured finshes were also used for camouflage purposes on all fronts, including sand, sawdust, fine
stone grit etc. These finished were usually mixed in with the paint. Helmets were painted in camouflage patterns and steel chicken wire covers or large holed
netting were used in camouflage techniques. Candidates must check with the unit when choosing a finish for their helmets. We want to maintain a diversity
without leaning too much towards the unique finishes. A member is assigned to each candidate for help in these areas.
Ammunition Bandoleers and Pouches
A piece of equipment issued exclusively to Fallschirmjäger was the ammunition bandoleer. Due to the fact that paratroopers would often be without supply
for lengthy periods, the need for large amounts of ammunition to be carried by individuals was evident. To meet this demand canvas bandoleers were issued.
They consisted of two rows of ten pockets joined by a wide band of canvas. These pockets could carry a clip of five rounds for the Kar 98K rifle. Later
with the introduction of the FG42 Paratroopers assault rifle a new type of bandoleer was manufactured with two rows of four larger pockets which was
designed to hold a single magazine each for the FG42.
Bandoleer Worn around the neck, the bandoleer rested against the body and was held in place by two loops of cloth, which were tied to the leather waist
belt. They were manufactured in all styles of colors including gray, pale green, field blue, splinter camouflage or tan water pattern.
Ammo Pouch Mauser ammo belt pouches were worn later in the war especially by the FJ Pioniers. Many times the pouches were worn with the bandoleer
simply to provide room to carry additional ammunition.
MP40 Magazine pouches were worn in on the belt. Each pouch contained pockets for three individual MP40 magazines, each holding 32 9mm rounds. They
contained D rings that allowed the Y-straps to attach to the rear of each pouch. Early pouches were Luftwaffe Blue, later pouches green or tan.
Field Gear
The Field gear consisted of the gear a German soldier would take into combat supporting him in his combat role. Items like Y-straps, gas mask bags,
grenade bags, holsters and more though not weapons were important items allowing the soldier to carry equipment into battle while keeping his hands and
arms free to participate in actual combat.
Y-straps The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included Equipment Straps that hook into a D-ring at the center of the Fallschirmjäger's belt
near the small of his back. The straps are then brought over the shoulders where they hook into either the ring on the reverse side of an ammunition pouch
or a D-ring.
Pistol Holster Every Fallschirmjäger carried a side arm. Either the Luger P08 or The Walher P38,the holster for these side arms were worn on his belt, on
the left side. Luger Holster, P38 Holster
Breadbag The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included a Breadbag, which was worn on the belt on the right rear side. In this bag the
Fallschirmjäger would carry his rations. Can be either Luftwaffe blue or Heer green.
Gas Mask Bag The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included a Gas Mask bag, which was different then the Gas Mask canister carried by most
German soldiers. This bag could be worn like the canister over the head and shoulder where it would be attached to the belt in the rear, or it could be worn
right at chest level in the front. This method was more common allowing quick access to the Gas Mask. Usually made of a green material.
Grenade Bag An item worn by some Fallschirmjäger, especially Pioniers to carry large numbers of grenades. This bag would be worn over the shoulders
where each bag would hang between the side and the arm allowing quick access to the contents. Usually made of a green or splinter camoflage material.
Canteen The standard issue field kit for a Fallschirmjäger included a water bottle (canteen). The canteen was usually clipped onto the rings, that are located
on the breadbag.
Knives and Edged Weapons
From Hand to Hand combat to being used as tools to cut one's self out a chute harness, every soldier needs a knife for day to day activity.
Gravity Knife The gravity knife is designed to allow one handed operation by depressing a thumb lever and pointing the knife downward allowing the blade to
fall into place. Once the blade was in place the thumb lever could be released and the blade would lock into place. The knife was produced in a take down
version and a non-take down version.
K98 Bayonet Standard Issue Bayonet worn on the left rear of the belt. Designed to mount on the front of the Mauser K98.
Fighting Knife used by German military forces during WWII, wooden handle with clasp on scabbard allowing the knife to be work on a belt, inside a boot,
on the smock, almost wherever the wearing wishes.
The Field Blouse Uniform (Fliegerbluse)
The Fliegerbluse was introduced in 1935 to all members of the Luftwaffe. It was shorter than the service tunic, had one row of hidden plastic buttons and
initially had no side pockets. Rank insignia and the Luftwaffe Breast Eagle were as on the service tunic. The Fliegerbluse was worn for a flying service
uniform for NCOs and men, a field dress for NCOs and men and a service dress for NCOs without portepee and men. It was very popular with the
Fallschirmjäger.
The Jump Trousers
The pants are made from wool. They have three pockets on the front, two rear pockets and a gravity knife pocket on the right pant leg. Two of the front
pockets are slanted with scalloped pocket flaps which close with press studs. one is located on each leg. The third pocket also has a scalloped flap which
also closes with a press stud, however this pocket is horizontal and is smaller. It is located between the right front pocket and the button up fly. It is used
for a pocket watch. The two rear pockets are horizontal with a scalloped flap these however are buttoned. The gravity knife pocket is a vertical pocket with
an inner pocket for the gravity knife. The flap is secured by two press studs and the flap is somewhat angled. There are also two vertical slashes secured by
three press studs each. One slash per leg on the side of the pant leg. These allowed for access to the knee protectors. (Photo Courtesy of At the front!)
Insignia - Breast Eagle
Breast Eagle The air force version of the national emblem was worn over the right breast pocket with the swastika overlapping the pocket flap. It was
machine in matt-grey thread for NCOs and men, but could be hand-embroidered on non-issue (private purchase) tunics. The breast eagle for officer ranks
was in hand-embroidered aluminum thread and for general rank in hand embroidered gold thread.
Shoulder Board The shoulder boards for the Fallschirmjäger consisted of standard Luftwaffe shoulder board trimmed in gold yellow. This was worn on the
Fliegerbluse, attaching with a button after sliding the board under a loop on the shoulder.
Collar Tab The collar tab for the Fallschirmjäger consisted of standard Luftwaffe collar tabs with the birds and trim when required. The color is gold
yellow in accordance with the shoulder board trim. The "birds" attach to the collar tab via metal tabs.
Belt and Buckle
Belt The standard belt was made of leather, usually brown or black, with a single hook on one end and a second piece of leather stiched on the other end.
This piece of leather had rows of 2 holes side by side. These holes are used to attach the belt buckle to the belt. Officer belts were made of leather with
rows of 2 holes side by side.
Belt Buckle The Luftwaffe NCO or enlisted man's belt buckle can be steel, aluminum, while being painted grey,or maintaining the metal finish. It has a clasp
soudered on the rear where the belt hook attached. It also has 2 metal points on a shaft that rotates. These points are used to attach the belt to the buckle.
Officer buckles were different being open with 2 shafts for attaching to the belt.
The Einheitsfliegermutze – M43
M43 In 1943 to replace the Fliegermutze, the Einheitsfelmutze was introduced. This cap was manufactured from field blue woolen cloth and had a cloth
covered peak. It was similar to the army style replacement cap in having the eagle and cockade embroidered onto a single piece of material and stitched to
the front of the cap. If the wearer found that the peak got in the way of operating certain equipment then it was permissible to turn the hat back to front.
This cap was forbidden to be worn with walking out dress. Although issued to all Luftwaffe personnel it did not entirely replace the Fliegermutze.
The Feldmutze – M40
M40 Standard field cap issued to non-specialist enlisted men from 1934 until the end of the war. It's a fold-up cap very similar to the American "overseas"
cap. Lining is tan or brown cotton twill on early specimens, giving way to rayon "silk" on later samples. Caps manufactured prior to mid-1942 have a
chevron of rayon soutache in the soldier's branch color (waffenfarbe) on the front. This was eliminated on caps made from mid-1942 until the end of the
war.
Jump Boots
Side Lace Jump Boots
Early Fallschirmjäger Jump Boots, side lace up style.
Front Lace Jump Boots
Fallschirmjäger Jump Boot, front lace up style.