Bundeswehr Jägerbatallion 67
The Bundeswehr as the military of West Germany was responsible above all for the defenses of the Inner German Border. In the 1980's, the Bundeswehr would have been at its peak strength. In 1985, it consisted of 495 000 men, of which over 335 000 were in the army and 230 000 conscripts. Full mobilization strength in the event of a full scale ground war would be almost 1.3 million. The idea of military missions abroad was (and still is) a highly controversial issue since the 90's due to historical reasons. It is likely that any possible Bundeswehr contingent in the 1980's would have been small, focused mostly on logistics/supply and consist mostly of volunteers for both tactical and political considerations. Any combat units would need to be light and flexible.
As a light motorised infantry specialised in combat for areas less accessible for vehicles and for rear security, the Jägertruppe would have been more suited for the terrain of areas such as Montenegro than conventional Panzergrenadiere, which made up the bulk of Bw infantry units. Jäger battalions were also to some degree independent, which allowed for detachment from the parent unit.
Basic Kit
Headgear
Field cap: The regulation headgear for the field was the field cap of the “Schiffchen” form. This was impractical and unpopular item, so Jäger often preferred to wear the green beret, when possible. Beret is optional. Must have Jäger badge (some longer serving troops continued to wear the old pre 1980 badge without the national colors). 80s berets have larger top than the current issue ones.
Helmet: M1 shell copy with uniquely German plastic suspension system and leather liner. The most common for 1986 would have been the Stahlhelm 1A1 modifiziert (top photos), introduced 1982 with 3-point chinstrap and improved liner. The older 1A1 with 2-point chinstrap (bottom photos) was in the process of being gradually upgraded to the liner system and was less common (accepted in small numbers).
All helmets should have net in field. Because Bw had no issued camo at the time, it was popular to obtain or make camo covers for the helmets and also served as a “status symbol”. US woodland was common in some units and will be allowed on limited basis. Covers are worn with net over to secure it.
Uniform
Standard 80s field uniform was the moleskin uniform in “Steingrau-Oliv”. Basic uniform consist of a field jacket, field shirt and trousers. Jacket and shirt should always have the West German flag on both sleeves.
Field jacket: underwent several changes over the years, earlier models have pointed pocket flaps and a strip of material from the bottom of pockets to end of jacket. Later models have straight flaps and delete this strip of material - these were introduced in mid-late 80s and should be avoided. Should have full insignia – rank, green branch cord for infantry (Litze), name tape and awards. Generally few awards would be seen on combat infantry units - most Tätigkeitsabzeichen were for specialist NCOs. Leistungsabzeichen in Gold will be considered for senior enlisted and NCOs, who are properly fit. Bronze and silver were often not considered worth the effort to attempt and if awarded, often not worn, because were poorly regarded.
Field Shirt: worn under jacket with collar over jacket collar. Could be worn alone in warm weather. Insignia vary from nothing or only a name tape to full insignia found on jackets.
Field trousers: Regulations required to be bloused with help of “Hosengummis” (blousing bands). In field sometimes appear to be worn tucked in the socks and/or boots and slightly bloused. Some soldiers sewed elastic in the ankles.
Undergarments
Undergarments consisted of a sleeveless or short sleeve shirt and long pants. Short sleeve shirt was also normally worn under the field shirt except in hot weather. The green t-shirts seem to be mostly a garrison item in the 80s and not seen often in the field. Undershirt should not be visible with open collar in field!
For extreme cold weather a long sleeve shirt and pants with fleece lining could be issued (optional).
Footwear
The 80s combat boots were black version of the brown boots from 70s. The speed hooks were found inadequate, so later production featured a reinforcement hook halfway to support the laces. Both the older and newer styles were in use by 1986. Should have Metzeler or Continental soles with chevron on heel (nicknamed the “Oberfeldwebel-Sohle”). Some boots were resoled in mid 90s with the same sole used on the “Kampfstiefel 2000”. These are to be discouraged. Worn with grey wool socks.
Load-bearing Equipment
Belt: Olive web belt with brass buckle. Newly issued were painted olive, but often quickly wore off to bare metal.
Y-straps: Most common was simplified model, which was little more than trouser braces. These were unpopular, because flimsy and hooks broke easily. Sometimes older model still seen, these will be allowed in limited numbers, but not preferred (must be approved first). Loose straps must be secured with belt d-rings.
G3 magazine pouches: worn in pair, newer were PVC (preferred), older vinyl (accepted, with approval).
Shovel: Worn on rear left side. Trifold NATO model in plastic carrier was standard by mid 80s. German models have slight differences from American. Replaced older folding model with green leather carrier, which was still issued to some units until 90s, but not JgBtl. 67. Some veterans report, that it was common practice to leave in rucksack, when not needed to reduce noise. Be careful - many trifold shovels sold as German are actually cheap Asian repros! Original Bw will have NSN (containing 12 for Germany) and normally marked BUND.
Gas mask: Schutzmaske 65 with hard rubberized green carrying bag (nicknamed “Atomkoffer”). Worn on left side. This was to be worn under the gear to prevent excessive movement and allow to drop equipment easily, if taken prisoner, because prisoners were entitled to retain NBC gear. Name written in white on olive tape on the rear facing side. If such practices would have been done during a war is unclear.
Rucksack
In the early 80s was introduced the so called “Jägerrucksack” (despite name was universal issue), which had attached straps - a major improvement over the older uselessly complicated system of a rucksack or small and large combat packs attached to a metal a-frame. Originals have become hard to find, so reproductions (right photo) are acceptable. Packed as follows:
Kleine Kampftasche: Small combat pack for mess items, rifle cleaning kit and 2 spare magazines, stored in rucksack (sometimes attached to front). Often less was carried than regulation - one veteran report for early 80s, only 1 magazine, no fat dish (“no one used them”) and G3 cleaning kit was in trouser leg pocket. Could be worn on rear center of belt with canteen on side, but this was no longer done by mid-80s. Its small size and noise of canteen made it practically useless, especially after the complementary large combat pack was phased out in the early 80s.
Cold and Wet Weather Gear
Parka: the well-known Bw parka with removable fake fur lining. Insignia is same as jacket, except no awards were worn.
Winter field cap: Olive cap with fake fur ear flaps.
Gloves: Grey leather, fleece lined.
Other cold weather gear included knit headwarmers, scarf, etc.
Rain suit: Hooded jacket and trousers of Gummitex material (optional). These just entered service in the 80s and were not very widely available yet.
Rain/NBC poncho: Rubberised poncho intended for both protection from chemical attacks and rain. Very early production has national flag on the shoulder area, eliminated later. The introduction of rain and NBC suits was supposed to eliminate need for it, but its use as practical garment remained in service. Sometimes stored in the gas mask bag.
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping bag: “Mummy” type with sleeves. Entire bag rolls into hood and would be strapped to top of rucksack. Later production had detachable liner not present in older ones, both types were issued in 80s.
Isolation mat: folded for easy storage in rucksack (optional)
Groundsheet (optional)
Misc. Recommended Gear
Gruppenführer Gear
The squad leader, or Gruppenführer, would carry extra gear to assist in his task. This would vary by mission, but generally included binoculars, whistle and compass, SEM-52 squad radio, sometimes mapcase (also could be carried by the Truppführer). Jäger units were not allocated the MP2 or MP2A1 (Uzi) on the squad level as was the case for some other infantry units.
Weapons
Primary Weapons: Since the end of the 50s, when it replaced the FN FAL (G1), the G3 in cal. 7.62x51mm NATO was the standard service rifle of the Bundeswehr. During this time it went through numerous improvements of sights, gas mechanisms, free floating barrel, etc. and by 1986, the current variant would have been the G3A3 with green plastic furniture. Most mags in the 80s were aluminium (waffle patterned reinforcements), steel less common. Per squad were also available two G3A3ZF (=with scope) for designated marksmen. The Bundeswehr never issued a bayonet (only for export models). Currently approved models are originals or PTR-91 (civilian model for US market) with correct furniture for blankfire and the LCT LC3 or Classic Army, Tokyo Marui and JG (with necessary upgrades) for airsoft.
The Walther P1, improved version of the P38, was standard sidearm. Carried in black leather holster on the right side (no cross draw like earlier German armies). Pistols, if available in the unit’s inventory, went preferably to the MG gunner.
Other Weapons (allowed): The squad support weapon in the 1980s was the MG3, an updated model of the famous MG42 in 7.62mm NATO and differed in a few details. Airsoft or blankfire versions are allowed (proper modifications for MG3 are required - NO MG42’s!). A squad would also be issued a leichte Panzerfaust and a HK69 40mm grenade launcher, which would be carried as needed. In addition, P2 or P2A1 flare pistol could be carried by the Truppführer. Grenades included the DM51 and DM51A1 as well as small numbers of older DM41A1 (German copy of US M26) still in use. Replicas of the HK69 (made by CAW) and DM51 exist and are permitted, must meet safety requirements of event organizers.
Grooming Standards
Hair: Haircut standards were a bit loose compared to some NATO armies like US Army, so shaved sides are not required, but hair should still be kept short and off the collar and ears.
Facial hair: Moustaches (any size) are allowed and were popular. Short trimmed beards were sometimes tolerated, in this unit they will require approval of unit command (but NO goatees!).
Glasses: 80s styles, sunglasses (issue and civilian models) allowed.
Eyepro (for airsoft events): clear goggles with proper safety rating are preferred to be as unnoticeable as possible.
*Impression Guidelines graciously provided by Klaus Alf*
As a light motorised infantry specialised in combat for areas less accessible for vehicles and for rear security, the Jägertruppe would have been more suited for the terrain of areas such as Montenegro than conventional Panzergrenadiere, which made up the bulk of Bw infantry units. Jäger battalions were also to some degree independent, which allowed for detachment from the parent unit.
Basic Kit
Headgear
Field cap: The regulation headgear for the field was the field cap of the “Schiffchen” form. This was impractical and unpopular item, so Jäger often preferred to wear the green beret, when possible. Beret is optional. Must have Jäger badge (some longer serving troops continued to wear the old pre 1980 badge without the national colors). 80s berets have larger top than the current issue ones.
Helmet: M1 shell copy with uniquely German plastic suspension system and leather liner. The most common for 1986 would have been the Stahlhelm 1A1 modifiziert (top photos), introduced 1982 with 3-point chinstrap and improved liner. The older 1A1 with 2-point chinstrap (bottom photos) was in the process of being gradually upgraded to the liner system and was less common (accepted in small numbers).
All helmets should have net in field. Because Bw had no issued camo at the time, it was popular to obtain or make camo covers for the helmets and also served as a “status symbol”. US woodland was common in some units and will be allowed on limited basis. Covers are worn with net over to secure it.
Uniform
Standard 80s field uniform was the moleskin uniform in “Steingrau-Oliv”. Basic uniform consist of a field jacket, field shirt and trousers. Jacket and shirt should always have the West German flag on both sleeves.
Field jacket: underwent several changes over the years, earlier models have pointed pocket flaps and a strip of material from the bottom of pockets to end of jacket. Later models have straight flaps and delete this strip of material - these were introduced in mid-late 80s and should be avoided. Should have full insignia – rank, green branch cord for infantry (Litze), name tape and awards. Generally few awards would be seen on combat infantry units - most Tätigkeitsabzeichen were for specialist NCOs. Leistungsabzeichen in Gold will be considered for senior enlisted and NCOs, who are properly fit. Bronze and silver were often not considered worth the effort to attempt and if awarded, often not worn, because were poorly regarded.
Field Shirt: worn under jacket with collar over jacket collar. Could be worn alone in warm weather. Insignia vary from nothing or only a name tape to full insignia found on jackets.
Field trousers: Regulations required to be bloused with help of “Hosengummis” (blousing bands). In field sometimes appear to be worn tucked in the socks and/or boots and slightly bloused. Some soldiers sewed elastic in the ankles.
Undergarments
Undergarments consisted of a sleeveless or short sleeve shirt and long pants. Short sleeve shirt was also normally worn under the field shirt except in hot weather. The green t-shirts seem to be mostly a garrison item in the 80s and not seen often in the field. Undershirt should not be visible with open collar in field!
For extreme cold weather a long sleeve shirt and pants with fleece lining could be issued (optional).
Footwear
The 80s combat boots were black version of the brown boots from 70s. The speed hooks were found inadequate, so later production featured a reinforcement hook halfway to support the laces. Both the older and newer styles were in use by 1986. Should have Metzeler or Continental soles with chevron on heel (nicknamed the “Oberfeldwebel-Sohle”). Some boots were resoled in mid 90s with the same sole used on the “Kampfstiefel 2000”. These are to be discouraged. Worn with grey wool socks.
Load-bearing Equipment
Belt: Olive web belt with brass buckle. Newly issued were painted olive, but often quickly wore off to bare metal.
Y-straps: Most common was simplified model, which was little more than trouser braces. These were unpopular, because flimsy and hooks broke easily. Sometimes older model still seen, these will be allowed in limited numbers, but not preferred (must be approved first). Loose straps must be secured with belt d-rings.
G3 magazine pouches: worn in pair, newer were PVC (preferred), older vinyl (accepted, with approval).
Shovel: Worn on rear left side. Trifold NATO model in plastic carrier was standard by mid 80s. German models have slight differences from American. Replaced older folding model with green leather carrier, which was still issued to some units until 90s, but not JgBtl. 67. Some veterans report, that it was common practice to leave in rucksack, when not needed to reduce noise. Be careful - many trifold shovels sold as German are actually cheap Asian repros! Original Bw will have NSN (containing 12 for Germany) and normally marked BUND.
Gas mask: Schutzmaske 65 with hard rubberized green carrying bag (nicknamed “Atomkoffer”). Worn on left side. This was to be worn under the gear to prevent excessive movement and allow to drop equipment easily, if taken prisoner, because prisoners were entitled to retain NBC gear. Name written in white on olive tape on the rear facing side. If such practices would have been done during a war is unclear.
Rucksack
In the early 80s was introduced the so called “Jägerrucksack” (despite name was universal issue), which had attached straps - a major improvement over the older uselessly complicated system of a rucksack or small and large combat packs attached to a metal a-frame. Originals have become hard to find, so reproductions (right photo) are acceptable. Packed as follows:
- Main compartment: underwear, 2 handkerchiefs, toiletry bag, pullover, kleine Kampftasche with contents, spare clothes. Veterans report exact contents varied and often carried only bare minimum needed.
- Interior pocket: Zeltbahn and tent pole bag.
- External pockets: 1 pair of socks, sewing kit, shoe polish kit. Veterans have said, that canteens often kept here for easy access.
- Sleeping bag strapped to flap
Kleine Kampftasche: Small combat pack for mess items, rifle cleaning kit and 2 spare magazines, stored in rucksack (sometimes attached to front). Often less was carried than regulation - one veteran report for early 80s, only 1 magazine, no fat dish (“no one used them”) and G3 cleaning kit was in trouser leg pocket. Could be worn on rear center of belt with canteen on side, but this was no longer done by mid-80s. Its small size and noise of canteen made it practically useless, especially after the complementary large combat pack was phased out in the early 80s.
Cold and Wet Weather Gear
Parka: the well-known Bw parka with removable fake fur lining. Insignia is same as jacket, except no awards were worn.
Winter field cap: Olive cap with fake fur ear flaps.
Gloves: Grey leather, fleece lined.
Other cold weather gear included knit headwarmers, scarf, etc.
Rain suit: Hooded jacket and trousers of Gummitex material (optional). These just entered service in the 80s and were not very widely available yet.
Rain/NBC poncho: Rubberised poncho intended for both protection from chemical attacks and rain. Very early production has national flag on the shoulder area, eliminated later. The introduction of rain and NBC suits was supposed to eliminate need for it, but its use as practical garment remained in service. Sometimes stored in the gas mask bag.
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping bag: “Mummy” type with sleeves. Entire bag rolls into hood and would be strapped to top of rucksack. Later production had detachable liner not present in older ones, both types were issued in 80s.
Isolation mat: folded for easy storage in rucksack (optional)
Groundsheet (optional)
Misc. Recommended Gear
- 1x spare uniform (jacket, trousers and shirt)
- Pullover, olive (earlier pattern without chest pocket)
- NBC suit with carrying bag
- Decontamination kit, bandages
- Issue flashlight
- Bw issue pocket knife
- Zeltbahn with storage bag, poles and tent pole bag
Gruppenführer Gear
The squad leader, or Gruppenführer, would carry extra gear to assist in his task. This would vary by mission, but generally included binoculars, whistle and compass, SEM-52 squad radio, sometimes mapcase (also could be carried by the Truppführer). Jäger units were not allocated the MP2 or MP2A1 (Uzi) on the squad level as was the case for some other infantry units.
Weapons
Primary Weapons: Since the end of the 50s, when it replaced the FN FAL (G1), the G3 in cal. 7.62x51mm NATO was the standard service rifle of the Bundeswehr. During this time it went through numerous improvements of sights, gas mechanisms, free floating barrel, etc. and by 1986, the current variant would have been the G3A3 with green plastic furniture. Most mags in the 80s were aluminium (waffle patterned reinforcements), steel less common. Per squad were also available two G3A3ZF (=with scope) for designated marksmen. The Bundeswehr never issued a bayonet (only for export models). Currently approved models are originals or PTR-91 (civilian model for US market) with correct furniture for blankfire and the LCT LC3 or Classic Army, Tokyo Marui and JG (with necessary upgrades) for airsoft.
The Walther P1, improved version of the P38, was standard sidearm. Carried in black leather holster on the right side (no cross draw like earlier German armies). Pistols, if available in the unit’s inventory, went preferably to the MG gunner.
Other Weapons (allowed): The squad support weapon in the 1980s was the MG3, an updated model of the famous MG42 in 7.62mm NATO and differed in a few details. Airsoft or blankfire versions are allowed (proper modifications for MG3 are required - NO MG42’s!). A squad would also be issued a leichte Panzerfaust and a HK69 40mm grenade launcher, which would be carried as needed. In addition, P2 or P2A1 flare pistol could be carried by the Truppführer. Grenades included the DM51 and DM51A1 as well as small numbers of older DM41A1 (German copy of US M26) still in use. Replicas of the HK69 (made by CAW) and DM51 exist and are permitted, must meet safety requirements of event organizers.
Grooming Standards
Hair: Haircut standards were a bit loose compared to some NATO armies like US Army, so shaved sides are not required, but hair should still be kept short and off the collar and ears.
Facial hair: Moustaches (any size) are allowed and were popular. Short trimmed beards were sometimes tolerated, in this unit they will require approval of unit command (but NO goatees!).
Glasses: 80s styles, sunglasses (issue and civilian models) allowed.
Eyepro (for airsoft events): clear goggles with proper safety rating are preferred to be as unnoticeable as possible.
*Impression Guidelines graciously provided by Klaus Alf*