History

The M42 Camouflage Smock was introduced with a variety of modifications to improve the wearer’s experience in combat.

The slash openings were removed as soldiers did not like wearing their equipment belts under the smock. In their place, two large pockets with scalloped flaps were added to the skirt; the interior of these pockets was manufactured out of a durable herringbone twill material, which is usually a blue-grey colour.

Horizontal rows of fabric loops were sewn onto the front and back of the shoulders, as well as on the tops of the upper sleeves, to attach foliage for additional camouflage.

The second pattern M42 was identical to the first pattern, except the pockets were slightly angled for better access.

The Waffen-SS produced no less than 8 distinct camouflage patterns, including ‘Oakleaf A’ for spring/summer and ‘Oakleaf B’ for autumn/winter. In addition, there exist numerous other patterns variations due to manufacturing differences.