The German uniform was perhaps one of the most iconic uniforms of WWII. As the war progressed, it underwent many changes to adapt to lessons learned, and the declining sources of production in Germany. With so many changes and variations over the war, putting together a correct German uniform may seem like a daunting task. But this page is here to help!
The 3rd Panzergrenadier uses uniforms typically worn by the German army, or Heer, during the mid to later years of WWII. A useful guide to dating WWII German uniform pieces comes in their names. For example, an m35 tunic started production in 1935. A m43 in 1943, etc. Don't worry about matching every item in your kit to a specific year. Soldiers were issued whatever was on hand, whether old model or new, it made no difference. Use photos of German soldiers in Russia for reference, and the list below, and soon you will have an authentic German kit!
The following is a list of the items that make up your basic 1944 Grenadier's impression. While you don't need each item to attend an event, make sure the items you get are on the list. Items needed for a basic impression are highlighted in yellow. Before purchasing anything, make sure you talk to an established member of the unit.
Helmet
M35, M40 or M42 helmet without decals. Original shells that have been restored are preferred but reproduction helmets are acceptable. Post war Spanish helmets are not allowed.
Jacket
M36, M40, or M43 field jacket, with generic litzen, breast eagle, belt hooks, and shoulder boards with white piping. The German Army did not distinguish between "models" of tunics so all are acceptable. The M44 tunic is not recommended due to its late issue and limited fit for many scenarios.
Pants
M36, M40, M42 or M43 trousers. Suspenders are recommended for all types of trousers. Once again, all models saw service and the German Army did not distinguish between trouser variations.
Shirt
Service shirt, work shirt, or appropriate civilian shirt. All shirts should be free of shoulder boards and insignia.
Hat
M34 or M43 field cap with national colors and eagle. M43 models should replace "Chinese factory installed" insignia with BeVo insignia.
Y-Straps
Foot model Y-straps made of leather or DAK webbing with proper metal hardware. Do not get the "lightweight" models that lack the "extra" set of straps for the assault pack. Beware of bargain priced models. You need durable straps that will handle the weight of your gear.
Footwear
M42 low boots with leggings (Gemaschen) or M39 "jackboots." All footwear should have leather soles, heal irons and hobnails.
*due to lack of available footwear, east german jackboots and plain leather look-alike lowboots are allowed.
Belt
Black leather-EM service belt with Heer enlisted buckle. DAK web belts are also acceptable.
Gas Mask Canister
Original gasmask canisters are preferred but reproductions are acceptable. Gas masks will never be used, so having the mask inside the can is optional.
Canteen
3/4 or 1 liter canteen with metal or bakelite cup. These are often restored originals and may be hard to find.
Breadbag
Original, post-war or reproduction breadbag of green or grey canvas and eating utensils (spoon/fork combo).
Messkit
Wartime or postwar messkit painted fieldgray. The "taller" post war Bundeswehr models are acceptable but are not preferred.
Weapons
98K, MP40 or other period airsoft gun with matching ammunition pouches. Bayonet and leather bayonet frog required for 98K
carriers.
After assembling your basic impression, the following items can be added at the recruit's leisure.
E-Tool
Entrenching tool (folding or single piece) and leather carrier. Single piece East German and Swedish shovels are acceptable.
Backpack
Original or reproduction assault pack or rucksack. Tornisters are not preferred.
Shelter Quarter
Splinter pattern Zeltbahn with four-hole dish buttons and zinc grommets. Italian shelter quarters and SS Zelts are not allowed.
Winter Jacket
M36, M40 or M42 greatcoat. Mouse gray winter parkas are also allowed.
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