Minifigure – German Waffen-SS Corporal SS-Unterscharführer from World War II (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a toy minifigure representing a German Waffen-SS Corporal, historically known by the rank SS-Unterscharführer.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the figure and its historical context:

The Figure: Waffen-SS NCO (Squad Leader) This figure represents a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) leading an infantry squad. His equipment differs from the standard riflemen to reflect his leadership role.

• Camouflage Uniform: He is wearing a Camouflage Smock (Tarnjacke) and a helmet cover in the Spring Oak Leaf Pattern (Eichenlaubmuster A). This green and brown speckled pattern was standard issue for the Waffen-SS and provided excellent concealment in European forests. Visible at the collar is the field-grey tunic underneath, displaying the SS sig runes on the right collar tab.

• The Weapon (MP40): Unlike the riflemen in this series who carry Kar98k rifles, this NCO is armed with an MP40 Submachine Gun (Maschinenpistole 40). This automatic weapon provided the squad leader with high-volume firepower for close-quarters combat and suppressing the enemy while directing his squad.

• Specialized Gear: Because he carries a submachine gun, his webbing is different. He wears MP40 Magazine Pouches (the three vertical, elongated pockets on his chest) specifically designed to hold the long 32-round magazines for his weapon.

• Additional Equipment: Tucked into his belt is a Model 24 Stielhandgranate (stick grenade), often called a “potato masher.” On his back, he carries the standard “assault pack” consisting of a gas mask canister, canteen, mess kit, and an entrenching tool (shovel).

• Legs: He wears standard field grey trousers with ankle boots and canvas gaiters, which replaced tall leather jackboots in the later stages of the war to save leather.

Historical Background: The SS-Unterscharführer was a junior NCO rank, roughly equivalent to a Corporal or Sergeant in Allied armies. These men were the backbone of the German combat units, commanding squads of about 8 to 10 soldiers. They were expected to lead from the front, which is why they were issued submachine guns like the MP40. The combination of elite camouflage gear and automatic weaponry makes this figure representative of the veteran units fighting in Normandy or on the Eastern Front during 1944-1945.