History

In April of 1934, the SS officially introduced a new field cap for its enlisted men. The cap was styled after the Imperial “pork-pie” field cap and was commonly referred to as the “Krätzchen” or “Scratcher” due to the rough material it was composed of.

Prior to its official introduction, the Krätzchen had been worn by SS men at drill training, during military manoeuvres, and on guard duty.

In May of 1934, a mere month after its formal introduction, the Krätzchen was discontinued and replaced by the M34 Field Cap.