Minifigure – German Waffen-SS Machine Gunner (Maschinengewehrschütze) from World War II (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a toy minifigure representing a German Waffen-SS Machine Gunner (Maschinengewehrschütze) from World War II.

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

The Figure: Waffen-SS MG Gunner (Gunner No. 1) This figure represents the most heavily armed soldier in a German infantry squad, responsible for operating the squad’s primary support weapon.

• Camouflage Uniform: Like the other figures in this series, he is wearing a Camouflage Smock (Tarnjacke) and a helmet cover in the Spring Oak Leaf Pattern (Eichenlaubmuster A). This distinct speckled green pattern was issued to the Waffen-SS and was highly effective in European vegetation. The SS sig runes are visible on the collar tab beneath the smock’s laces.

• The Weapon: He is armed with a heavy machine gun, representing either the MG34 or the famous MG42 (known as “Hitler’s Buzzsaw”).

  • Drum Magazine: Notably, the weapon is fitted with a 50-round Basket Drum (Gurttrommel). This drum held a coiled ammunition belt, which prevented the belt from dragging on the ground or getting tangled. This configuration was specifically used during assaults so the gunner could fire on the move or from the hip without needing an assistant right next to him to hold the belt.

• Sidearm (The Holster): A critical detail printed on his belt is the black leather pistol holster. Because the machine gun was heavy and cumbersome, machine gunners were issued a pistol (usually a Luger P08 or Walther P38) for self-defense in close quarters, rather than a rifle.

• Combat Gear: He wears standard infantry webbing (Y-straps) and carries a full Assault Pack printed on his back, including the gas mask canister, canteen, and mess kit.

Historical Background: German infantry tactics in WWII revolved entirely around the machine gun. The rest of the squad (riflemen) existed primarily to protect the machine gunner and carry ammunition for him. The MG42 had a terrifying rate of fire (1,200 rounds per minute), creating a distinct ripping sound. Being the Gunner No. 1 (Richtschütze) was a dangerous role, as Allied soldiers were trained to identify and eliminate the machine gunner first. The use of the drum magazine shown on this toy suggests a scenario of mobile warfare or an offensive attack.