Uniform Regulations
Forms of Dress:
1. Walking out dress: This combination of the basic field gray uniform worn open at the collar with the gray shirt and tie, service belt and buckle, bayonet (where allowable), and the M-43 or M-40 caps (EM's only). Officers and NCOs have the option of the Schirmutze or peaked cap. Boots should be clean and blackened.
2. Field dress: This combination consists of the basic field gray uniform worn closed at the collar neck (unless high heat calls it to be open), with the standard issue field equipment which includes the leather service belt and buckle, cartridge pouches, breadbag, 98k bayonet, gas mask canister, Y-straps, canteen and mess tin.
The camouflage smock and helmet cover are optional but strongly suggested! The helmet is worn while in the field at all times except during a rest break in friendly zones. When moving tactically it is a safety factor. The crews of armored vehicles have more slack in that they are not in the field, per service, but in an enclosed or partially enclosed place. They have the option of wearing a soft cap and only sidearms. This is their discretion as it varied historically.
Wool Tunic: The tunics authorized for EMs are the M-40, M-43, M-44, and the Dot-44 pattern tunic. The M-36 tunic with the bottle green collar is authorized for officers and NCOs only. The most recommended models for 9th SS EMs are the M-43 and Dot-44 tunics. This is due to the high number of 9th SS personnel being issued these patterns. While there may be some that did have other tunics these represent the most common styles in use. For M-36, M-40, and M-43, tunics these should have a five button front. However, due to availability, a six button Heer style will be allowed if it is all that's available. The pictures on the bottom are of an M-40 with feld grau collar and five buttons.
Wool Trousers: M-36/M-40/M-43 models in feld grau with slash pockets and may have belt loops, or built in belt, straight leg for enlisted or riding breeches (optional for officers). These are worn with suspenders with the legs tucked into marching boots.
Tunic Insignia: The placement of tunic insignia is as follows: the collar insignia is sewn with the bottom edge of the collar patches on line with the collar stitching that is approximately 1/4" from the bottom edge of the collar. The sigrune is worn on the right collar and the rank is worn on the left. The sleeve eagle is worn centered on the sleeve with the top edge of the eagle on line with the bottom edge of the upper pocket flap. Sleeve rank insignia is worn 1/2" below the sleeve eagle. Cuff titles are worn 6 inches above the bottom of the cuff, and are centered on the tunic and just above the cuff on the overcoat.
NCO Tresse and Awards: When NCO tresse is worn, the bottom edge of the tresse is sewn along the bottom edge of the collar and the collar patches are repositioned so that the bottom edge of the collar patches are placed along the top edge of the tresse. When button hole ribbons are worn they are sewn so that the senior ribbon is on top (i.e. Ostfront medal ribbon is below the Eisernes Kreuz). All badges must be secured via loops sewn to the tunic in the proper position.
Specialty Insignia: When specialty insignia is to be worn, it is placed 1" above the cuff title and is centered on the sleeve. These would include trade badges.
M-40 Field Cap, Schiffchen: The SS style eagle is worn above the Totenkopf on the front of the cap. Officer will wear this cap with silver or white piping. While the actual regulation called for white piping for officers below the rank of General, silver is still most common as the regulation was not rigidly adhered to.
M-43 Einheitsmutze: The insignia worn on the M-43 cap consists of the SS cap eagle and the Totenkopf. The eagle is placed on the left side of the cap approximately 1/2" below the upper edge of the fold over with the left wing tip just to the right of the scallop. The Totenkopf is centered and sewn just above the buttoned flap.
M-35/M-40/M-42 Stahlhelm: Insignia for the steel helmet consists of one SS-sigrune decal placed just below the vent hole on the right side of the helmet. No Spanish helmets are allowed.
Shirts: Two types of shirts are allowed for wear with the uniform, the sleep shirt, and a medium gray cotton dress shirt. Reproductions are being made by several sources and are widely available. WATCH FOR QUALITY!
Undershirt: M-33, M-41, M-42 replicas or any black or white European tank top undershirt will do. SS or RAD insignia is allowable for older members (20+) or HJ diamond insignia for the younger members (19-) at the wearer's discretion.
Greatcoat: The authorized greatcoat that may be worn with the uniform is the M-40 feld grau overcoat which is double breasted with two slash pockets and turn back cuffs. The use of shoulder boards and the SS sleeve eagle is optional. Original and reproductions are both acceptable.
Boots: The authorized footwear for the 9th SS ground troops are jackboots or the lace-up short boots with gamaschen. Armored vehicle personnel is authorized to wear the short boots at all times. The authorized jackboots are the mid-calf standard length for the enlisted men or the taller length (below the knee) for officers at their discretion. It is advisable to have leather soles put onto boots along with hobnails and heel/toe plates.
Socks: There are some dealers selling repro and older style gray German socks making this an option. One may wish to consider what a pounding you will be giving these and what an expense this would be. If you wish to have everything correct then this is for you. It is advisable to keep a spare pair available in your gear.
Winter Camouflage Clothing (Winterbekleidung): These winter items are excellent to have and most are presently being reproduced. They are not a requirement but are worth the investment.
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Parka Uniform: The parka uniform consisted of four sperate items; jacket, trousers, toque (Kopfhaube), and mittens. Initially it was issued in gray reversible to white, however after the Heer began to add splinter pattern camouflage in October of 1943, the SS followed their lead and introduced a parka with Oak Leaf A in spring colors but later changed it to the fall browns. The next pattern to be used was the Blurred Edge. These were the only styles of camouflage through to April of 1944. In the fall of 1944, the '44 Dot pattern began to be used. It is likely that the 9th SS were issued all of these patterns for the last war winter of 1944. The predominant style was still the Oak Leaf patterns but either of the others is acceptable.
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Mittens: The initial mittens were of the "gauntlet" style and were reversible like the rest of the uniform. They featured a long tie strap which allowed the user to hang them around the neck when not in use. In the winter of 1944, they had a special trigger finger added to increase manual dexterity.
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Toque (Kopfhaube): The toque was a type of winter hood which was supposed to add to the overall camouflage effect but was not too popular with the troops. The main problem was that it restricted hearing despite having a thinner single layer of wool by the ears. It was supposed to be worn underneath the helmet. The soldaten tended to prefer the use of a soft cap, such as the M-43 under the hood of the parka.
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Trousers: These were again in a reversible camouflage like the rest of the uniform. The trousers featured two small tabs for the suspenders to be attached and had drawstrings at the ankles to make a tighter fit in the cold and snow. One positive feature was a large flap by the fly which limited the heat loss which was highly favored by the troops.
Camouflage Clothing (Tarnschirme):
Throughout WWII, the German military had made use of various patterns of camouflage patterns. None were as striking or advanced as the SS patterns (Tarnmuster), that were developed between 1936 and 1945. In the 9th SS, we mainly concentrate upon just a few of the designs that were in use. This is mainly because our unit was raised when several patterns were no longer available and that our unit was issued with the latest designs. Some patterns were used only for specific types of clothing. This is why a '44 Dot pattern Zeltbahn is not considered correct. Here are the four patterns which we will be using and are acceptable:
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Blurred Edge: This design was used from 1941 through 1944 and was used in helmet covers, zeltbahns, and smocks. There are some fine copies available and would have been issued to the 9th SS.
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Oak Leaf (Type A and B): This is the predominant pattern used in WWII German reenacting today. This was used in helmet covers, hats, zeltbahns, parkas, mittens, and smocks. This was in great use and was made between 1941 through 1945.
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Plane Tree (Models 1 through 6): Made for use on headgear, zeltbahns, and smocks. This design was discontinued in 1944 but it is likely to have been issued to the 9th SS.
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'44 Dot (Pea Dot): This was used primarily for the two-piece tunic and pants uniform, winter clothing, and for armored personnel for wraparound tunics and pants. This pattern was the last one to see mass distribution being made in 1944 through 1945. The 9th SS had a substantial amount of this style. This was often printed on an HBT material with five different colors made of indanthrene and anthrasol dyes. One of the major advantages for a new recruit is that the '44 dot tunic and pants eliminate the initial expense of both a feld grau wool uniform and camo smock and still being 100% correct. There are some units that do not allow the use of this striking pattern which is another good reason to do a 9th SS impression.
Although Italian patterns of camoflague were in use in some German units, it is not allowed in the 9th for an obvious reason; our unit never served in North Africa, Italy, or the Baltic regions where they would have gained access to the material. Being raised in late 1943 through early 1944, the 9th SS would have received the latest stocks of equipment hence the reason for only using the four designs below.
Plane Tree
Blurred Edge
Oak Leaf
'44 Dot
While some people may have transferred into the 9th from other units that had been issued other styles, it is unlikely that any substantial numbers of such persons would have existed. The majority of NCOs and officers that did a transfer in were from the 1st LSSAH who were issued much the same camouflage by 1943-44.
The use of Heer pattern zeltbahns is considered acceptable due to the extreme expense and availability of repro SS zeltbahns. Do not wear the Heer zelt but use it only for your tent. The SS zelt is to be considered the prime item to have but the Heer patterns being readily available and inexpensive to sleep in.
Tarnjacket (Camouflage Smock): There are two models we use in the 9th SS. They are Model 1942-Type I and Model 1942-Type II. These two patterns have the two front pockets and loops for foliage. The main difference is that the pockets are straight on the Type I and are slanted on Type II. The earlier designs without the front pockets or foliage loops were discontinued long before the 9th was formed.
Zeltbahn (Shelter Quarter): This is the M-1931 (Zeltbahn 1931) pattern in the SS camouflage listen in the patterns section. The SS Zeltbahn was used for numerous uses. The first being one piece of a tent shared by three other Soldaten. The Zelt was designed to button together in such a way that it could become even larger by adding an even number of additional units to make a six man tent or more. It could even be used to put together a "Zelthaus" made up of sixteen or thirty-two zelts. This made up a squad sized tent. It could also be used as a poncho, which could be buttoned differently for different activities the Soldat did (i.e. foot soldier, bicyclist, horseback, etc.). When not in use the zelt was folded and carried on the back being strapped down onto the Y-straps or onto the A-frame. This piece of equipment is not required but it is very useful. Original Heer pattern zelts are acceptable for tentage but not for any other purpose. If you intend to carry or wear it then you must have an SS pattern zelt.
The ABC's of Uniform Standards
"A" Frame/Gefechtsgepack: Original or approved replica, web type with leather straps is best.
"A" Frame Bag/Gefechtsgepack Beautel: Original or quality repro. This is used for carrying personal effects and the emergency Eisernes Ration which attaches to the "A" Frame.
Attitude: This is a very important issue within the 9th SS Hohenstaufen Living History Group and within our hobby. For the best overall impression, it is best to leave the present day at home. The best impressions can be destroyed by the careless use of modern day attitudes and conveniences. Remember you are portraying a member of the Waffen SS in 1944 and modern weapons, fast foods, radios, etc. must be forgotten and left home. For the best of all concerned you are expected to get into uniform ASAP when arriving at an event. Remember this!
Bayonet Frog/Seitengewehr-tasche: Original or approved replica. The types approved for use are the standard or cavalry type (with retaining strap) in black leather.
Bayonet/Seitengewehr: Original or approved replica K98 bayonet with scabbard and wood or bakelite grips. No other types are approved.
Belt/Koppel: Black leather (horsehide) belt with the metal buckle keeper in original or quality replica only.
Breadbag/Brotbeutel: Gray/Green canvas with leather straps on flap in original or quality reproduction. No other colors can be used.
Boots/Steifel: Jackboots or low boots with gaiters/gamaschen. Original or quality reproduction. Hobnails, heel and toe plates are optional as some vehicle owners do not want these on their classic vehicles. If you have them, be courteous and check with them prior to boarding. No boots with the leather toe cap are allowed.
Buckle/Koppelschloss: Standard SS EM buckle of original or quality replica. Finish may be bare metal or painted in a silver frost or in feldgrau. This is the best in the field.
Canteen with cup/Feldflasche und Trinbecher: Original or replica with either leather or web straps. Covered with wool/felt and the metal cup in feldgrau or the black bakelite cup.
"D" Rings/Aufschiebeschlaufen: Original or replica black leather belt loop with the square or D shaped ring. Used in hanging various extra gear. This item is required for use by MG crews.
Identification Disc: These must be acquired and be worn at all times while in uniform. These must contain all the correct period information with all the proper markings. The last 4 digits of your social security number will serve as your German "Wehrnummer" or service number on your tag and on your soldbuch.
E-Tool/Schanzzeug: Original or replica straight or folding types, with correct black leather carrier. Swiss are sometimes used for flat shovels.
Eyewear: Period eyeglasses must be obtained by the recruit needing prescription lenses by the recruits second event. Original German military glasses and/or period non-military glasses can be found and fitted with modern lenses reasonably inexpensively.
Field caps/Einheitsfeldmutze: Feldmutze in feldgrau wool, M-43 (single or double button types), buttons to be painted feldgrau. Approved replicas only. This cap must have the proper "Bevo" or machine embroidered insignia.
Flashlight: Original or Bundeswehr. Must be painted in feldgrau or black. PLEASE: NO East German which are upside down and are obviously wrong.
Gas Mask Can/Gasmaske: Original or early Bundeswehr model with removed canvas cover. The can must be painted in feldgrau. The use of the mask is optional in the field. It should be used in public displays in case of inquiry.
Gloves/Handschuhe: Knit wool in charcoal grey, five finger or mitten type in various shades of grey and grey/green. Officers and NCOs can use grey leather gloves.
Haircuts: Hair must be above the collar of the shirt and cannot touch the ears. No side-burns, mustaches, or beards will be allowed. Hairline must stop at or above the ears. When in barracks, being clean shaven is the rule, not the exception. When the portrayal is strictly in the field, a day or two's growth is acceptable as this is historically correct for a field soldat. It is, however, still expected of you to acquire and use period grooming items when possible.
Helmet/Stahlhelm: M-35/M-40/M-42. Original shell with/without original liner. Reproduction liner must be of the M-36 design. No Spanish helmets, or helmets with front loop, etc. Correct type black leather chin strap with buckle only helmets are to be painted in field grey with either a single SS decal on the right side or no decal at all.
Mess Kit/Kochgeschirr: Original or suitable reproduction. The kit should be painted in feldgrau or in black. The kit must have the correct leather strap. Original or repro folding fork/spoon combo to be used with this item.
Overcoat/Mantel: Original, or approved replica. Only shoulder boards and sleeve eagle are allowed on the overcoat.
Peaked Cap/Schirmutze: Standard model peaked service cap, with metal insignia. Leather chin strap is optional for NCOs. (Note: All senior NCOs and officers are required to own this cap with appropriate waffenfarbe.)
Raincoat: Rubberized overcoat/motorcyclist coat. Original or reproduction.
Scarf: Knit wool in charcoal grey with black stripe on one end. Original or reproduction.
Soldbuch: This is your identification book which is required by the soldats 3rd event. This will then be completed by the unit Stabscharfuhrer with the proper stamps and entries. Please do not attempt to do this yourself.
Suspenders: Standard model German trouser suspenders. Original or approved replica.
Sweater/Schlupjacke: Closed neck or V neck types M-36 or M-42, in knit wool of a charcoal color and size ring(s). Original or approved replica.
Toque/Ohren Schutzer: Knit wool in charcoal grey. Original or approved replica.
Trousers/Rundbundhosen: M-41, M-43, M-44 types are allowed. The same as above for makers. Swedish trousers must not have exterior pockets.
Tunics/Feldbluse: M-41, M-43, M-44 types are allowed. Original or approved replica only. M-36 models are usable by Officers and Senior NCOs only due to the fact that as this is a late war unit the early models were seldom encountered except when in use by long term SS soldats. Insignia for the tunic is as follows: "Bevo" Hohenstaufen cuff title, machine embroidered or "Bevo" sleeve eagle, black wool shoulder boards with applicable waffenfarbe. Black wool collar tabs: white or grey thread SS runes on right tab and rank (plain for new recruits) on the left. Pebbled tunic buttons should be original or approved reproduction and painted feldgrau.
Undershirt/Unterhend M-33, M-41, M-42: Original or approved replica. Black or white European tank top shirts may be worn. The use of SS, HJ (young members only) or RAD sports insignia on these are excellent. Insignia is usable on the M-42 shirt and must consist of the SS sleeve eagle and or shoulder boards for shirt sleeve order.
Wallet: While these are not required they are both handy to keep your soldbuch in as well as money, etc. They add to the authenticity and provide you with even more details to display to the inquiring public.
Watches and Jewelry: Try to obtain a period looking wrist or pocket watch if you feel you need one. No digital watches will be allowed. No jewelry with the exception of period rings, bracelets, etc. will be allowed. ABSOLUTELY NO EARRINGS ALLOWED!
"Y" Straps/KoppelTrager: Original or replica in black leather. The 5-leg type is preferred for use by NCOs and men. These allow the use of the "A" frame which was common.