Steel Helmets

The Waffen-SS utilized the M1935 steel helmet,which was adopted by the Wehrmacht.The M1935 was supplied in five basic sizes and weighed from 1.8 to 2.7lbs.Its suspension consisted of an adjustable leather-padded,spring-aluminum band which was secured at the sides and rear by three cotter keys.The M1943 was also adopted and worn by the Waffen-SS personnel.It was similar in appearance to the M1935 except it dispensed with the inward crimp around the rim thus easing and cheapening manufacture.Waffen-SS helmets were finished in matt field-grey and fitted with a black leather chin-strap.

The waffen-ss continued to use the two decal shields which the SS-VT had utilized pre-war.These shields were centred immediately below the ventilation holes on either side of the helmet.The left shield was red with a white circle containing a black swasitka.The right shield was silver bearing the double runes of the SS.In early 1941,combat troops were restricted in the wearing of the red/white/black swastika shield for the sake of camouflage and concealment.
Although the SS runes were worn alone for some time,these were also discontinued after November 1943.

Cloth camouflage helmet covers were widely used by the Waffen-SS and can be distinguished from those of the Army and Luftwaffe by the distinctive
SS camouflage pattern.These covers were reversible,having either two styles of camouflage pattern (spring and autumn)or a mottled pattern on one
side and white on the other.They were fitted to the helmet by a fold in front and small metal hooks at the back and either side.It is probable that a
special SS helmet cover was issued and worn by members of the SS-Fallschirmjager-Bataillon.

The basic matt field grey helmet was offen re-painted to fit the terrain when helmet covers were not available.Camouflage netting was also worn on Waffen-SS helmets and decorated with leaves,branches,etc.


Source:Uniforms,organizations and history of the Waffen-SS