As the Armed-SS (Waffen-SS) expanded its military influence it began to requisition combat helmets starting with the M1935 model.  In the mid-1930’s the newer model M1935 helmets were difficult for the Waffen-SS to obtain.  As a political organization the Waffen-SS did not have favor with the general staff of the German Army (Heer) which commanded most of the influence over military production and supply.  The majority of helmets manufactured were issued to the German Armed Forces (Wehrmacht).  As a result, some SS units were temporarily issued standard M1935 helmets bearing Heer insignia.  Records dated 11 May 1936 indicate that the first batch of M1935 helmets received by the SS were issued to members of SS-Leibstandarte “Adolf Hitler”.  However it is believed that some of these helmets were of the kind that bore Army decals rather than SS decals (see Period Photos).

Significant shortfalls in combat helmets within the Waffen-SS were largely remedied by 1940.  As a fighting unit, members of the Waffen-SS wore M1935, M1940, and M1942 combat helmets until May 1945.  Early M1935 helmets were finished in various shades of smooth field-gray paint.  These helmets bore two decals which consisted of the National Socialist Party shield on the left, and the SS runic shield on the right.  A small number of M1940 helmets were produced with twin insignia like those found on the M1935.  However an order issued in 1940 soon discontinued the application of the National Socialist Party decal.  From that point onward both M1940 and M1942 helmets were factory produced with only the runic shield applied to the right side.  In an effort to simplify production and improve concealment the single runic decal was also eliminated from use in 1943.  As a result, many helmets worn by members of the Waffen-SS bore no insignia of any kind.  Both M1940 and M1942 helmets were given a dark to medium colored field-gray finish with modest to light texture.  The textured paint was intended to help reduce helmet glare and improve overall concealment capability.  Some helmets produced or reissued after 1942 also bear a "slate gray" paint finish.  This color was also used by the German Army but on a more limited basis.

Overview

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This Information Track provides historical facts pertaining to steel helmets worn by the Waffen-SS (Armed-SS) from 1934-1945.  Individual links related to this subject are outlined below.

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