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German cross  Wehrmacht colors & camouflage German cross

Yeah, I know! There is a plentitude of books and publications on this subject already, so why bother to write more about it?
Well, I am hoping this might be a new angle on the subject, and by doing what I normally do; going back to the roots and the original documentation, I am hoping to rectify a few things that has gone awry!
The Wehrmacht, and its predecessor, the Reichsheer, went through some easily defined phases during their existence, in regards to the choice of colors and camouflage. The intention with this article is to do a step-by-step study of the orders that regulated the colors and patterns of paint applied to vehicles and equipment of all kinds in the Wehrmacht. The Oberkommando des Heeres (O.K.H. - Army High Command) ordered changes in the paint colors and the use and specifications of camouflage patterns. These orders were sent along two "corridors". One went directly to the manufacturers, detailing how the procured products should be finished. The other "corridor" led to all departments and units in the chain of command, including equipment depots, the supply system, the home army and the fighting units. The broad guidelines, and sometimes the smaller details, were published in the Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen (General Army Communications, "AHM". Often also abbreviated to "A.H." or "H.M", the German texts used both.) and the Heeres Verordnungsblatt (Army ordinance sheet, "HVB").

What kind of order or information that ended up in which publication seems to have been rather random. I am unable to see any pattern. But the same information was never published in both, (with one exception). It was either one or the other. Some of the announcements were also re-published in other publications outside of the Heer, like the Verordnungsblatt der Waffen-SS, but with a reference to the original. The units on the ground that received the orders through the AHM and HVB would again issue orders to their sub-units, referring to the AHM or HVB. Locally issued orders seem to be following the centrally issued orders strictly on all subjects, except for white camouflage (whitewash). Colors, paint, paint application and camouflage could also be mentioned in the manuals and regulations pertaining to the specific piece of equipment, but these regulations would always be secondary to the guidelines issued in the Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen or Heeres Verordnungsblatt.

All of the official regulations concerning this matter, published in these publications from 1933 to 1945, will be dealt with here. In this article, I have included all of them, with English translations. The reader should thus be able to trace all changes in the regulations over the years. I have added a commentary after every regulation to help the reader understand the text, and the impact it has. If you can't be bothered with the details you can scroll to the bottom and read the summary!

The regulations in AHM and HVB were meant for the army units that used and maintained the equipment. Permanent changes to paint colors and patterns would first be implemented in the contracts for new equipment ordered from the manufacturers, and then instructions for the Wehrmacht units would be issued for the secondary painting of equipment already in use or storage. All contracts with the industry that manufactured equipment for the Wehrmacht, both in Germany and the occupied territories, would be specified with the help of a "Technische Lieferbedingungen", abbreviated to "TL" (Technical delivery terms). I have found no copy of a paint TL, but here is a TL specifying the acceptable values for diesel-fuel for use in vehicle motors. It will give you an idea what the paint TL would look like. 

A "Kriegsauftrag" (War Contract) was drawn up between the OKH and the civilian company that would be manufacturing the goods. In our example below, the manufacturer is the Firma Linneman Schulte & Co. K.G. Ahlen/Westfalen, code "fug" (which is not mentioned in this document). 

Drawn up on 29 January 1943, the contract is for 14.000 airtight ammunition boxes for the 3,7 cm Flak 18, priced at RM 12,50 ea. The contract number "SS 850 -1- 7539/42 Luft" states that the order is for the Luftwaffe. The "SS" on the start stands for "Sehr Schnell" (ASAP), and has nothing to do with the Waffen-SS. The boxes will be manufactured according to the blueprints already known to the manufacturer; Zeichnung 713 B-4412 and be under the Technische Lieferbedingungen TL 13/8319. This TL I am guessing would regulate the quality of the steel, the specs for the sealing etc... But not the paintwork! The color ordered has been specified in the text as "Dunkelgrau nach RAL 7021" according to TL 6303 B. And TL 6303 B is "Vorläufige Bedingungen für Anstrich" (Provisional conditions for painting). Clicking on the above picture will give you a higher resolution picture without my red frames.

The equipment would be delivered in the paintwork requested in the contract, according to the TL. It appears that once an order had been placed with a specified TL, the production order would be filled according to the initial contract. So even though a change in color was ordered in an Allgemeine Heeresmitteilung, some factories would continue to deliver equipment according to the old "standard" for a period of up to 2 years afterwards.

Organizational chart for the Allgemeinen Heeresamt of the Oberkommando des Heeres. Click on the picture above for a full-size view.
The offices that issued the regulations in this article can be identified in the chart.

Regulations concerning color, paint and painting would be issued by the individual offices of the "Inspektions" of the Waffen Abteilungen under the Allgemeine Heeresamt, with "Inspektion 2 (In 2) Infanterie" being the one most often encountered. Regulations concerning equipment in storage would be issued by the "Heeres Feldzug-Inspektion (Fz In)". 

Color
The problem with “color” will always be the discrepancy between the “textual names”, a printed/photographic sample or reference to a color chart, and the actual paint on an object. The paint was manufactured in many factories, with slightly different raw materials at their disposal, and with different manufacturing techniques. Added to this problem you have the wear or deterioration of both the painted item and the paint itself, changing both the color and texture of the paint. Moreover, the ageing itself is a separate factor, depending on storage conditions like light and climate and the material of the object.

 
A Blendscheibe from a steel carbide lantern. Stored in a dark box for 77 years. The steel is in mint condition, but the paint has clearly been affected by the years gone by, solely by exposure to air.

There are very few “absolutes” when it comes to paint and color. So simply just accept that there will be variations!
Collectors, historians and model builders in our time have been influenced by movies, toys, plastic model color charts (Humbrol’s “Panzer Grey, Matt 67” is still lurking in my mind) and even new made copies of items. I will strictly adhere to references from WW2 publications and original items in this article to keep it as correct as possible.


An assorted selection of items in original WW2 applied Dunkelgelb (dark yellow), RAL 7028. Note the differences in color and surface texture.

Some German words are kept in German, like “Buntfarbenanstrich”. Other words are written in German with a translation in brackets, like “Dunkelgrau” (dark grey), and will thereafter be written in German. It is simply less confusing to stick to the few original German words for the paint colors.
German abbreviations will be translated and explained in the commentary the first time they appear. The explanations to the abbreviations will not be added each time they appear, as that would bore the reader.
Keep in mind that no dates in the publications are “final”, they simply give you a guideline. Most of the time the orders to the industry had already been issued when the regulations were printed in the Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen, and changes implemented. In other instances, it took months and even years to implement and follow the orders.

Paint and painting, versus color
The application of paint to objects made of metal or wood was primarily done to protect the items from wear or deterioration caused by the elements. Fabric, like tarpaulins was painted to improve their resistance to water. The secondary effect of painting objects was to make them blend in with the environment, making them as “invisible” as possible; camouflage! The visual color, as perceived by the eye of the beholder, will vary depending on the light and the method of application. The use of a brush will give a whole different appearance than application with airbrush.
So, who painted what, when and where?
The Wehrmacht acquired equipment through contracts with civilian manufacturers, and as Beute (war booty). The only exception to this that I know of is the manufacturing of some spare parts conducted by the Wehrmacht's own arsenal at Spandau. All equipment ordered by the procurement departments of the Heeres Zeugamt (army material division) under a contract came with a set of Technische Lieferbedingungen, "TL" (Technical delivery terms). The contracts would give the details about the equipment ordered, as well as the instructions for paint application. This ensured that all new equipment handed over to the Wehrmacht had the correct colors, and initially & finally; camouflage patterns. Most of the equipment of a "technical nature" adhered to the guidelines issued in the Allgemeine Heeresmitteillungen in regards to paint colors. But there are exceptions though, like some early types of optics and their containers.
Helmets on the other hand, were never delivered in the "standard army colors", but came in a variety of paint colors of their own. Helmets will be dealt with at the end of the article in a separate chapter.


A Laufschützer 43 issued in Dunkelgelb (dark yellow), repainted by the user back to Dunkelgrau (dark grey). The inside retains the original color.

When the orders for the use of new colors were received by the units they were sometimes adhered to, and sometimes ignored. Larger equipment, like vehicles, was more likely to be repainted than small items, like a spare barrel carrier for the MG34. And in extreme cases the units would even reverse the colors ordered, painting items freshly delivered from the manufacturer in the new color with the previously approved color. 

Canvas and dye
Canvas items were manufactured by the industry in the colors described in the contracts. One of the sillier misconceptions today is the belief that "all items colored blue belonged to the Luftwaffe". In fact, most items believed to be "blue" today are in fact dyed Dunkelgrau, and was meant for all branches.


A carrying case for a Messlatte for the EM34. The middle section has been dyed Dunkelbraun (dark brown).

Even MP magazine pouches were manufactured in camouflaged canvas, but they are not easy to spot when worn and dirty. 


A MP38 u. 40 pouch made from canvas that has been dyed in Dunkelgrau and Dunkelbraun. NOT a Luftwaffe item, but generic pouches made for all branches of the Wehrmacht!


A Reichsheer truck painted in Buntfarbenanstrich, with a factory dyed tarpaulin.

The units repainted tarpaulins and covers according to the changing regulations, but smaller items made of canvas seems to have been left alone by the users.

Farbenkarte versus Farbentafeln  
The officers at the OKH had a clear idea of what the troops in the field units should do in regards to the painting, and maintenance of paint, of the equipment they had been issued. They issued written regulations through the AHM and HVB, but they had to rely on Farbenkarte and Farbentafeln in order to "visualize" the regulations for the personnel tasked with the actual execution of the painting. 

A Farbenkarte (Color chart) is simply a catalogue with color-samples showing what the individual color looks like, and which code or number is associated with that specific color. I will get back to that in the next section about the RAL.

A Farbentafeln (Paint chart) was a set of instructions with examples on how to paint a vehicle or equipment, and probably also contained information on ratio, colors etc. Elements from the Farbenkarte (like color samples) could probably be issued as parts of the Farbentafeln. The paint chart would work as a set of "paint by numbers" instructions, to ensure that the units used the correct color at the right location on the equipment to obtain maximum effect. The use of Farbentafeln ends in July 1940, when the WH leaves the idea of a factory applied two-tone camouflage and simply use Dunkelgrau. But more about that later!


The picture above is a modern version of a Farbentafeln. I assume the German prewar version would have been something similar, but probably more generic. No surviving example of the Farbetafeln has survived to my knowledge, but they are referred to in several of the early Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen.

Reichsausschuss für Lieferbedingungen (RAL) and the Farbenkarte
The Reichsausschuss für Lieferbedingungen ("National Committee for Delivery Conditions"), abbreviation RAL, was founded in 1925. By 1927 it had developed a color classification system that is still in use today, to create a simple system for displaying different colors.
It started with a system called “RAL 840”, which was followed by "RAL 840B". The first mentioning of this I have found is a HVB publication dated 10 March 1933. It announces a new color chart to replace the RAL 840B, but by 29 July 1933 it is still not distributed among army units.
But the RAL system was a civilian product. A revision was made to it, and the name changed to “RAL 840 B2” in June 1932, even though this didn't reach the army. This color chart contained 40 colors, but they were not numbered consecutively. The list started with 1 and ended with 40, but was arranged with several sub-numbers and missing digits. The colors were named 1-1h-1m-2-3-4-4h-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-15-15h-15i-16-17-18-19-20h-20m-22a-23-24-25-26-27-28-29-30-31-32-33-35-35h-39-40

       

At some point in time the number of colors in the Farbenkarte must have been increased, as the Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen refer to both a "18g", a "45" and a "46", of which none is displayed in the 1932 edition.
By the end of the 1930'ies the two-digit codes were replaced with a four-digit system, and the name changed again to “RAL 840 R” (for “revised”).
The first digit denotes the range of colors:
RAL 1xxx Yellow, RAL 2xxx Orange, RAL 3xxx Red, RAL 4xxx Violet, RAL 5xxx Blue, RAL 6xxx Green, RAL 7xxx Grey, RAL 8xxx Brown and RAL 9xxx White/Black.
The name of the color chart, and the name of the individual color, has changed several times since then, but the codes remain valid.

This is a sample of one of the colors we will encounter later.


In the "RAL 840 B2" this color was named "Dunkelbraun" (dark brown), and it had the code "18".
In the "RAL 840 R" color chart the code had changed to RAL 8014.
For the computer geeks out there the Hex code is #4A3526. The RAL codes will be summed up at the end of the article.


In the beginning all looked bleak


A M18 helmet in its issued grey-green finish called "Feldgrau".

By the turn of the century the Kaiserliche Heer was already rather "subdued". Grey and green were the color used for all types of equipment, and eventually for vehicles and tanks as they entered the scene. But already during WW1 the soldiers in the trenches discovered that "camouflage saves lives". It is unknown (to me) to what extent camouflage patterns were authorized or approved, but it does survive on plenty of helmets, machine guns with mounts, ammunition cans etc. The variety in patterns and colors differs wildly, but still has the same structure. The standard seems to be three different colors, brown/green/yellow, separated by thin black lines. This pattern is dubbed "Mimikri" by the collecting community.


A M1916 helmet in the so called "Mimikri" pattern. The original grey factory paint is retained inside, while the whole shell has been camouflaged on the outside.

Stage 1. Buntfarbenanstrich (3-tone)


Assorted equipment in factory applied Buntfarbenanstrich

The first mentioning of the Buntfarbenanstrich dates back to May 1920, and was ordered by the Heeresleitung - Supreme Army Command - in an issue of the Heeres Verordnungsblatt. Sadly, I have found no copy of this document.  Buntfarbenanstrich translates to "Multi colored paint pattern", and the colors match those of the WW1 camouflage pattern, but without the black lines. The camouflage pattern saw extensive service on all kinds of equipment. It stayed in official use from 1920 to 1937, but the pattern obviously "pleased" the users. A lot of Wehrmacht equipment survived many years of use, even during wartime, and a dozen orders and reminders to repaint it to the new camouflage colors, without being altered! The factories in the Third Reich continued to manufacture equipment all the way through 1938 in the Buntfarbenanstrich, and even some specimens dated 1939 can be found.


The camouflage colors were also used on canvas and tarpaulins. The fabric was dyed (or printed) prior to cutting and sewing. This is a protective cover for a telescopic mast.


Kanonier Kurt Möse at Elverum, Norway in the winter of 40/41. His truck is painted in the three-color Buntfarbenanstrich and no longer adheres to earlier issued orders.
(Picture courtesy of Lars Henriksen, Elverum)


A 1938 dated picture of a Leichter Panzerspähwagen (Fu) Sd.Kfz 223. Note the Buntfarbenanstrich in three colors clearly visible on the spare wheel cover.


(Picture courtesy of Øyvind Leonsen)

A Panzerkampfwagen I from the first production run is getting a hose-down. Note the 3-tone camouflage Buntfarbenanstrich, clearly visible on the upper right side, just below the turret. The Lkw (Lastkraftwagen - Truck) has been fitted with a tarpaulin dyed in the Buntfarbenanstrich. This was clearly factory-dyed (and not painted), since the windows don't match the pattern on the main piece.

To tell the orders apart I have chosen to index them by their number/year and hint to the contents. The first one out is

HVB 170/1933.  Camouflaged tarpaulins. 

170. Camouflaged canvas.
The army supply depots have the following in stock:

camouflaged canvas, 1 m wide, weak.... m,
Requisition number H 10510, Price 3,65 Reichsmark.;

camouflaged canvas, 1 m wide, strong.... m;
Requisition number H 10511, Price 4,20 Reichsmark.

The army workshops request their maintenance and production needs directly from the supply depots (Ma. Ingolstadt) for resupply.
The need for camouflaged canvas for the manufacture of new vehicles and equipment of all kinds is also met from these stocks. Transfer to the manufacturing companies and the type of value reimbursement are regulated in the procurement orders. The equipment directory 398 H General army equipment - Part 4 - is to be changed according to the above in lead under paragraph
32. Camouflage equipment and camouflage means.
Revision will follow.

The Chief of Army Operations  13. 4. 33, Wa N V.
This is the earliest dated announcement I have found in relation to paint and camouflage, published in the HVB. The camouflage mentioned here is the Buntfarbenanstrich. The last part states that catalogue for General army equipment should be updated with the new information, with a led pencil. 

HVB 337/1933.  Color chart. 

337. Color chart.
According to Heeres Verordnungsblatt 1933 p. 47 Nr. 152 under the last paragraph, the units would receive the appendix “Tactics and technique”.
In this appendix, page 30, second last paragraph, the issue of a new color chart was announced. For economic reasons, a new edition will not be published for the time being, and the old extract from the color chart 840 B will remain valid until further notice. Some handwritten changes will be specifically announced. 

The Rw. Minister, 29. 7. 33. Wa Vs II.

The first mentioning of a color chart. The name is only given as "color chart 840B", "RAL" is not mentioned.
A previously announced distribution of a new color chart (in fact RAL 840B2) is cancelled, due to cost. The units must continue to use the old version; color chart 840B.
The announcement is signed by the "Reichswehr Minister" (Minister of defense).

HVB 475/1933. Canvas prices. 

475. Camouflaged canvas.

In the equipment directory 398 H General Army Equipments, Part 4, under Paragraph 32; Camouflage equipment and camouflage means, the prices for camouflaged canvas must be changed as follows:

Canvas, weak ……….H 10510 3.30 RM,
Canvas, strong ......... H 10511 3.45 RM

Revision will follow.
Reference is made to H.V. Bl. 33 p. 53 No. 170.
The Chief of Army Operations,  31. 10. 33. Wa N 2 V.
This announcement refers to the first one, 170/33. The prices for the camouflaged canvas have now come down, and the list must be updated accordingly.

HVB 353/1934. Bad company.

353. Oil paints for 1934.

In the list of suppliers of oil paints -D 69- valid for 1934, the company listed under number 24, Sebastian Roß, Lack- and Farbenfabrik, Stuttgart, Gutenbergstr. 21, shall be removed with all information. 

The Rw Minister, 12. 7. 34. Wa B 1 V.

From time-to-time civilian manufacturers would be added or removed from the lists of approved suppliers. The reason could be financial discrepancies, lodge membership or later in the prewar years, simply coming from a non-Aryan family.

HVB 341/1934. Oil paints available through the supply system.

341. Delivery of oil paints.

The following colors will be available against payment from October 1, 1934, from the individual supply depots:

        Primer paint for metal, red,
        Primer paint for wood, field gray,
        Paint, field gray,
        Paint, earth yellow,
        Paint, green,
        Paint, brown.

Smaller quantities are held in stock and sold in cans of
2,5 kg and 5 kg.
When larger quantities are requested, the units etc. must provide cans that has been carefully cleaned.
Prices will be announced later.
H. Dv. 488 Part 1 and D. 69 will be revised.

The Chief of Army Operations,
26. 6. 34. AHA. Fz In IV A.
The army supply system is stocking up on paint, and the units can now order paint for their needs through the normal supply system. The last three colors listed are the Buntfarbenanstrich-colors, not to be confused with the later tan/green/brown used from 1943 and onwards. The Buntfarbenanstrich-colors can be seen on the Lafette 34 below. The field gray listed above can be viewed on the M18 helmet pictured above.  


A 1938 dated Lafette 34 in factory applied 3-tone Buntfarbenanstrich. It survived 7 years of service in the WH without a repaint.

The next two announcements are rather dull, and concerns the working conditions in the units' paint workshops. But, as I have promised to include them all, they can be read with a translation by clicking on them below.

HVB 175/1935 & 219/1936. Ventilation in painting rooms


Let's move on to more "interesting" stuff; where to shop your paint!
 
HVB 521/1936. Where to buy camouflage paint for rubber dinghies.

521. Camouflage paint for rubber dinghies.
In addition to the Zoellner Werke, Berlin-Neukölln, Köllnische Allee, the company Carl Becker, Stralsund, is authorized to supply the paints for the camouflage painting (green, brown, light olive) for the rubber dinghies. The price is RM 2.05 per kilogram (including containers for quantities up to 5 kg).
The paints can also be purchased at the same price through the rubber dinghie manufacturing companies as follows:
Deutsche Schlauchbootfabrik, Berlin SO 16, Köpenicker Str. 32 a,
v. Kehler u. Stelling (Wasser- u. Luftfahrzeuge),
Seddin b. Stolp (Pom.), Post Jeseritz,
Albert Mayer, Berlin SO 16, Köpenicker Str. 108.

Army High Command
29. 5. 36.   AHA In 5 (III).
For some reason the name of the colors has been stricken out in red on this announcement. The combination is new to me, with "light olive" instead of the usual "earth yellow". According to the text the pattern and colors should be of the standard type for the Buntfarbenanstrich...


This dinghy is on display at the Musée Guerre et Paix in Novion-Porcien, France. It is secondary painted in the later color scheme Dunkelgrau/Dunkelbraun, but was initially delivered from the manufacturer in the standard Buntfarbenanstrich. 


But of special interest, it is maker marked "Seddin, 1935". One of the makers listed in the HVB 521/1936 announcement.


Stage 2: Dunkelgrau und Dunkelbraun (2-tone)
The old Buntfarbenanstrich was officially retired by the first paint notification in the Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen.

AHM 340/1937.  The path towards the end for the "Buntfarbenanstrich".

340. Painting of army equipment.
1. Instead of painting the device in “Buntfarbenanstrich“, use Dunkelgrau (dark gray) and Dunkelbraun (dark brown). The colors are not to be sharply contrasted with one another; rather they must gradually merge into one another. Only one color should be used on small areas - dark gray or dark brown.

2. Paint charts will be sent to troops and units as soon as they are ready. The new coat of paint should only be applied if the previous one has to be touched up or renewed.

3. Applying the paint by spraying is better for the camouflage effect than application by brush, as the paint is less glossy when sprayed.

4. Wagon tarpaulins should not be painted; they must be worn out in the previous colors. New products are made in the same colors as mentioned in # 1. 

5. Existing equipment held by the army supply depots still has the previous Buntfarbenanstrich and will be issued to the troops in its current condition.

6. The conflicting regulations of H. Dv. 488 Part I Appendix 6, in particular page 237 # 30 and the color samples page 238, are no longer valid. The regulation will be altered with published cover sheets, or with a new edition.

Oberkommando des Heeres (Army High Command),
12. 7. 37.   AHA/In 2 (VIII).

The text is self-explaining, but worth noting is the very general guidelines. It doesn't specify the ratio of the different colors, leaving us to believe the new pattern will be 50/50 dark grey and dark brown. It doesn't specify the color of the paint, beyond the generic names "Dunkelgrau und Dunkelbraun" (no RAL codes). This is not a regulation to repaint everything; it only applies to equipment in need of new coat of paint.
# 6. Refers to H.Dv. 488/1 Vorschrift für das Verwalten der Waffen und des Geräts bei der Truppe. Teil 1 Allgemeine Bestimmungen für Kommandeur,
Kompaniechef und Geräteunteroffizier. Dienstanweisungen für das technische Personal.  
(H.Dv. 488/1 Regulation for the management of weapons and equipment by the units. Part 1. General regulations for commanders,
company commanders and technical sergeants. Instructions for the technical staff.)
The last two lines is considered a "signature". The first of them will always have the "parent unit" and (normally) the date. In this case it reads Oberkommando des Heeres (Army High Command), in later orders abbreviated as O. K. H., and 12. 7. 37.
The second line will denote which office under the Allgemeine Heeresamt (AHA) that issued the order.
AHA/In 2 (VIII) is an abbreviation for Allgemeines Heeresamt (General Army Directorate) / Inspektion 2 (Infanterie) VIII.


A 1940 dated Lafette 34 manufactured by Metallindustrie Schönebeck A.G. This example is actually factory painted in accordance with the order above. The brown and grey fields appear to be divided 50/50, and the dark grey is unusual light.

AHM 70/1938. "Painting of floaters"

70. New camouflage paintwork for pontoons and rubber dinghies.  
The following regulations apply to the camouflage of pontoons and rubber dinghies, insofar as they require renewal:

1. For the necessary camouflage of the pontoons and rubber dinghies, the following colors from the color chart for vehicle paints, number
840 B2 of the Reichsausschusses für Lieferbedingungen (RAL):
for dark gray 29 RAL 840 B 2 and
for dark brown 18g RAL 840 B2.

2. Pontoons made of V2 A sheet metal should be painted with Chrotogenic underwater colors according to "Instructions for the camouflage painting of pontoons with Chrotogenic underwater colors BK P4, P5, P6", published by Ch. d. H. 80d 1011 v. Wa Prw 5 (IIa) v. 28. 1.1935. The rubber dinghies should be painted with the colors according to D528 - Instructions for the camouflage painting of rubber dinghies.

3. The colors should not be sharply contrasting with each other, but must gradually overlap. The shape and size of the color spots depends on the size and shape of the device. Small areas receive only one color- dark gray or dark brown. The dark gray color is predominant, approximately in the ratio of 2/3 dark gray and 1/3 dark brown. Refrain from any regularity in form and alternation.

4. The publication by Ch. d. H. 80d 1011 v. Wa Prw 5 (II a) from 28. 1. 1935 will be shipped immediately to Pioneer Battalions erected after 1. 10. 1935 by the
Heeres Waffenamt (Prw 5).

 5. The paint chart mentioned in H. M. 1937, Page 137, Nr. 340, #2 can be ordered from H. Za. Kassel.

O. K. H., 28. 1. 38
-82 / 83- In 5 (III).

This order was published by the O. K. H. Inspektion 5, Pioniere. It is not an order to repaint everything, it is an order to change pattern and colors if an item needs repainting. Although the order is rather "equipment specific", it offers a lot of new details unpublished up to this date.
In the previous regulation, AHM 340/1937 # 2, the text refers to a "Farbentafel". This is a paint chart that show the user how to paint an item. In this regulation, AHM 70/1938 #1, we are introduced to the new and revised "Farbenkarte" (color chart) RAL 840 B 2, to ensure that the correct colors are used. Dunkelgrau is listed as "RAL 29" and Dunkelbraun as "RAL 18g". In #3 the ratio is now specified as 1/3 Dunkelbraun and 2/3 Dunkelgrau. #5 "H. Za. Kassel" is the Heeres Zeugamt (Army equipment depot) in Kassel.


A Messlatte for an Em 36 1M issued in Dunkelgrau/Dunkelbraun.

Another dull one. Regulations concerning painting of the interior of buildings. Click on the image to go to the complete announcement with translation.

HVB 87/1938. Rules for the painting of house interiors

(I told you it was dull!)

HVB 177/1938. Spoked wheel color

177. Specify the camouflage paint when ordering wooden wheels from H. Za.

When ordering wooden wheels with steel hubs in the future, the Army Equipment depots must be informed of the desired color (dark brown or dark gray). The wheels will then be delivered with the appropriate paint. It is then no longer necessary for the troops to repaint their wheels.

O. K. H., 6. 5. 38
--75 a 60/83 --Fz (IV).

Cart wheels would be delivered in one out of the two approved colors, and the units had to specify which color they wanted. The reason for the "one color only" policy is rather easy to understand: a camouflaged wheel would be much more visible when turning than a single-color wheel. This also applies to roller wheels on tanks, especially big disc wheels.

AHM 460/1938. Distribution of the paint charts

460. Painting of army equipment.

 There is reason to point out that the paint charts for the painting of army equipment as mentioned in H. M. 1937 page 137 no. 340 #2 sentence 1, are available at the army equipment depot in Kassel. They can be handed over to
any service location with a weapons workshop or motor vehicle workshop
for each unit 1 paint chart,
for each weapons workshop 1 paint chart,
for each automobile workshop 1 paint chart,
1 paint chart to every higher office, if needed.
If the troops do not yet have the paint charts, they are to be requested immediately from the Army Equipment depot in Kassel.

 O. K. H., 8. 7. 38
- 72/88/0018- Jn 2 (VIII).

This order is a reminder to the units to get hold of “Paint charts” (Farbentafeln) mentioned in 340/37 if not already received. The paint chart was a set of instructions with examples on how to paint a vehicle or equipment. Not to be confused with the RAL “Color charts” (Farbenkarte), which only contained color codes/names/samples.
The “signature” has now changed. A codification number, - 72/88/0018- has now been added. I am guessing this is linked to the contents of the order, and is for archival purposes. The number appears to be (almost) constant throughout the war in all cases from "Inspektion 2" in matters regarding paint, while other regulations from the same Inspektion has different numbers. Inspektion 2 (Infanterie) is now abbreviated as “Jn 2”. This is not a typo. It is not uncommon in written German from this era to substitute “i/I” with “j/J” to avoid confusion (yeah, right!). The most classical examples are the missing serial numbers in the “i” block of all serial numbers on German weapons, and that “Infanteriegerät” (Infantry equipment) is classified as “J-Gerät”.


Two Sonder Kraftfahrzeuge 221 (SdKfz 221) lined up after a bath, at a training camp in Germany in 1938. The "Zweifarbenanstrich" of Dunkelgrau and Dunkelbraun is clearly visible.

AHM 687/1938. The death of the Buntfarbenanstrich

687. Painting of army equipment.

1. H. M. 1937 page 137 no. 340 #2 sentence 2, #4 sentence 1 and #5 are repealed. The equipment must be painted dark grey/dark brown by the troops, regardless of the condition of the previous Buntfarbenanstrich paint that is still present.

2. The following colors should be used
dark gray No. 46 from the color chart 840 B 2 RAL,
dark brown No. 45 from the color chart 840 B 2 RAL,
P-paints for armored vehicles painted with these colors,
W-paints for equipment painted with these colors,
paints for canvas according to the following Paragraph 7,
otherwise E-paints (artificial resin paints).
These paints can also be applied to existing oil paints.

3. The expenses will be covered by the units' allotted funds. 
4. The application of the paint is shown in the paint chart - H. M. 1938 page 157 no. 460. 
5. The paints are to be ordered from the suppliers with the following in mind:
Either ready-to-use paints are to be supplied as requested, or the supplier must print information about a suitable, commercially available dilutent on the labels of the packaging containers in order to adjust them to spray ability. If only a special thinner can be used, it must be requested separately for spraying purposes.

Reference is made to regulation D 69 1937/38
published 6. 8. 1937 for obtaining the E-paints.

Suppliers for P-paints:
Chemieprodukte Komm. Ges., Berlin-Britz, Waltenrieder Str. 31-33,
Glasurit-Werke M. Winkelmann A.-G., Hamburg 1,
Glorius-Wiernik G. m. b. H., Berlin Waidmannslust, Oraniendamm 5/9, Dr. Kurt Herberts & Co., Wuppertal-Barmen, Christbusch 25,
C. Henderhoff, Berlin SO 16, Melchiorstr. 10,
Gustav Leuchte Nachf., Leipzig W 33, Lüßener Str. 98-100,
Herbig-Haarhaus A.-G., Lackfabrik, Köln-Bidendorf,
Hermann Wiederhold, Lack- und Lackfarbenfabrik, Hilden (Rhld.) und Nürnberg-N.

6. Synthetic resin paints have a maximum storage time of 3 months only; this must be taken into account when determining the order quantity.
7. All tarpaulins of motor vehicles and covered wagons as well as multi-colored covers and protective covers are to be painted dark gray/dark brown with paint for canvas (2).
Canvas paint suppliers to be announced.
The canvas must be thoroughly cleaned of dust before painting, and it must be completely dry. The colors should be stirred well before use and applied once with a brush to cover the surface.
The first coat is dark gray, leaving the dark brown stains free. After that dark brown is applied.

O.K.H., 2. 11. 38
-72 8800 18 - In 2 (VIII).

Comments: #1. The old Buntfarbenanstrich is now declared dead, and is to be covered in a new coat of paint in dark grey/dark brown by the troops.
#2. In the regulation AHM 70/1938 the dark grey paint was identified as number 29 in the color chart “RAL 840 B2”. In this regulation it has changed to "number 46" in the color chart “RAL 840 B2”.  The dark brown paint was identified as number 18g but has now changed to "number 46". In the 1932 edition of the printed "RAL 840 B2" only one out of the four colors can be found (29), so a revised/extended version of the 1932 “RAL 840 B2” must have existed in November 1938.
The type of paint to be used differs according to the equipment to be painted.
P-Farben. Paints with a higher resistance against fire, and with a better resilience against fuel spills.
W-Farben. Paint used mostly for Radio equipment.
E-Farben. E and EH paints were synthetic paints used on all other types of equipment and vehicles.
#4. The paint charts previously referred to in AHM 460/1938 obviously show the end-user how to apply the paint on vehicles and equipment.
#5. “Regulation D 69 1937/38 of 6. 8. 1937”. This refers to “Dienstvorschrift 69. Firmen- und Preisverzeichnis für Ölfarben und Kunstharzfarben".
A list of standard suppliers of E-Farben paints used by the Wehrmacht. To get hold of the P-Farben the list of possible suppliers is included in the order.
#7. A list of possible manufacturers of paint for canvas is not ready yet.
The “signature” returns to the old “In 2” again.

Gustav Leuchte Nachf., Leipzig W 33, Lüßener Str. 98-100, was listed as one of the suppliers of P-paint.

Although the regulations AHM 687/1938 (above) don't mention it, there was an appendix to the same AHM that refers back to it. This was the Kraftfahrtechnischer Anhang zu den Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen 1939 Blatt 3 (Motor vehicle appendix number 3 to the General Army Communications).


Click on the picture above to view a larger image with translated text.

The Kraftfahrtechnischer Anhang is, as the name implies, focused on automotive regulations. The header points back to the AHM that deals with the total repainting of all equipment in Buntfarbenanstrich to the new dark grey / dark brown pattern. The tabular set up defines the color(s) for each type of vehicle. Staff cars for higher staff (1) are left "undefined". Cars in this "class" were probably used in gloss, civilian colors. Motor bikes (2) and standard cars (3) were painted in one color only. Larger cars (4) and trucks (5) got the two-tone pattern.
It also details what to paint dark grey, which is about everything, except tarpaulins which should be two-tone. Although not specified, I get the feeling that the vehicles in question are requisitioned civilian vehicles, repainted for army use. The most interesting details can be found at the lower part of the "Color for chassis and body" column:

(See pattern for painting of equipment*) -- *) (see H.M. 1938 page 157, Nr 460). This one is a catch 22. It refers to the earlier regulation that in turn refers all those that need a paint chart to contact the Army Equipment depot in Kassel.

"....and color chart no. 840 B2, 4th supplementary page from May 1938". This sentence explains why the color numbers 45 and 46 can't be found in the color chart RAL 840 B2 from 1932. They were issued as the fourth "loose page" to the old chart in May 1938. By the start of 1940 the whole system had been re-classified and the colors had received a four-digit number.

The signature is a completely different one.
O.K.H. 20. 1. 39
- 76a 18 -- In 6 (IIIb)
This regulation was issued by Inspektion 6: Waffenabteilung der Panzertruppe, Kavallerie und Heeresmotorisierung (In 6). It can be located in the org. chart at the top of this article. 

AHM 55/1939. Suppliers of canvas paint & the right color regime

55. Painting of army equipment.

 1. With reference to H. M. 1938 page 261 no. 687 #7, paragraph 2, the following suppliers for canvas paints are announced
Ewald Dörken, Herdecke-Ruhr
Hermann Wiederhold, Hilden (Rhld.)
Hermann Wiederhold, Nürnberg
Dr. J. Perl & Co., Berlin-Tempelhof
Gustav Ruth, Hamburg Wandsbek
Farbenfabrik Hansa, F. Weisshun & Co., Kiel
Carl Dürschmidt, Aussig/Sudetengau
Schwaab, Weingarten/Baden
Dr. Wide, Berlin Tempelhof, Reichsbahn-Privatstr.
Reichhold, Flügger & Boeding, Hamburg 35, Hammerdeich 60/68
Reichhold, Flügger & Boeding, Wien XXI, Breitenleerstr.
A. Jankl Söhne, Graz
Zoellner-Werke, Berlin Neukölln.
The colors must have been accepted by the army and be in sealed containers with a WaA acceptance stamp.

2. It should be noted that the color chart for vehicle paints RAL No. 840 B 2 (Number 45 and 46) is solely authoritative for the shade of the colors dark gray and dark brown. The printed paint chart (H. M. 1938 p. 157 no. 460) is used as guide for the painting. The units should paint spoked wheels and disc wheels in dark grey.

O. K. H., 17. 1. 39
-72/88/0018 - In 2 (VIII).

Comments: #1. Suppliers of canvas paint, that was missing in AHM 687/38, is listed. Of special note is the fact that the (civilian) suppliers should only deliver paint to the purchasing units in sealed cans, which has been WaA approved & marked. This would indicate that the WaA approved products got accepted (stamped) directly at the factories by Waffenamt inspectors, and didn’t go through the military supply chain at all.
#2 once again draws up the differences between the Farbenkarte and the Farbentafel, and refers to RAL 840 B 2 (Number 45 and 46) as the only & final "definition" of the color.


Gustav Ruth, Hamburg Wandsbek was listed as one of the canvas-paint manufacturers.

AHM 105/1939. "Who paints the equipment in storage"?

105. Painting of army equipment
in the H. Za.
1. The painting of army equipment at H. Fz. depots with the new Buntfarbenanstrich (paint pattern with two colors) according to H.M. 1938 page 261 no. 687 is carried out as follows:
a) for supplies held by the H. Za. before 30. 6. 1939,
    b) for mobilized equipment units in the H. Za. before 1. 10. 1939.
2. For mobilized equipment units that are stored with the units, the units must paint the new Buntfarbenanstrich themselves by 1. 10. 1939
(e.g. columns and border guard units).
3. The H. Za. will issue equipment for the ongoing creation of new units with Buntfarbenanstrich a./A. until 30. 6. 1939. The repainting of this equipment is to be carried out by the units. From 1. 7. 1939, the H. Za, will only hand over army equipment with the new Buntfarbenanstrich for the creation of new units.

O. K. H., 21. 1. 39
- 72/89 AG - Fz In (IV a).

Comments: “H. Za” is an abbreviation for Heeres Zeugämter, Army Equipment depots.
#1. “H. Fz.” is an abbreviation for Heeres Feldzeug, military equipment (radios, optics, searchlights etc.). A new definition is used; “Neuen Buntfarbenanstrich (Zweifarbenanstrich)” (new paint pattern (with two colors)). This is the only order where this definition is used; all other orders use “Dunkelgrau/Dunkelbraun Anstrich”. The reason for this odd name is probably that the order comes from a different Inspektion than the rest of them.
#3. “a./A.” a standard abbreviation for “alter Art” (old model/old type/old issue). The opposite is “n./A.” which is “neuer Art” (new model/new type/new issue).

 The signature is “AG – Fz In (IV a).” AG is Amts Gruppe, “Fz In” is an abbreviation for Heeres Feldzeug-Inspektion.


A Laufbehalter 34 in Dunkelgrau (bottom) and in Dunkelgelb (top), as well as a Laufschützer 34 in Dunkelgrau / Dunkelbraun.
Most equipment in this size never got repainted according to the regulations, and stayed in the color it was delivered in from the industry.


AHM 114/1939. More civilian paint suppliers added

114. Painting of army equipment.

 As a follow up to H. M. 1939 page 22 no. 55 the following companies are also announced:
Chemieprodukte, Berlin-Britz, Walkenrieder Straße,
Heimberg & Gresers, Krefeld, Schließfach 276,
Glasurit Werke, M. Winkelmann, Hamburg 1, Bankstraße,
Court & Baur, Köln Ehrenfeld,
Herbig-Haarhaus, Köln Bickendorf,
Aug. Merkens, Eschweiler (Kr. Aachen),
Jurolin, Inh. Robert May, Elbing (Ostpr.),
N. Baumheier K. G., Oschatz-Zschöllau,
Immalin Werke, Mettmann (Rhld.),
Beck, Koller & Co., Berlin-Weißensee,
Spies, Hecker & Co., Köln Raderthal.

O.K.H., 3. 2. 39
-72/88/16- In 2 (VIII).

Comments: These are additional manufacturers of the canvas paint.
The signature is the standard one once again.


Herbig-Haarhaus, Köln Bickendorf and Court & Baur, Köln Ehrenfeld was added as manufacturers/suppliers of canvas paint in the above order.


AHM 140/1939. Measurements

140. Painting of army equipment.

 1. As a follow up to H. M. 1939. p. 44 no. 114 the following company is announced
Theodor Kotthoff, Köln Raderthal.
2. The paints for canvas will be ready for delivery by the suppliers and made available in specific containers. The intended tin cans should contain 2.5 or 10 kg, drums will contain 50 kg.
Due to this, only quantities divisible by 2.5 can be ordered.

O. K. H., 16. 2. 39
-72/88/16- In 2 (VIII).

#1. A supplier/manufacturer of canvas paint is added to the list of options.
#2. The smallest possible order for canvas paint is 2,5 kg. 

Theodor Kotthoff, Köln Raderthal was added to the list of manufacturers.

AHM 329/1939. Painting of mortar legs.

329. Painting of the bipod
for the s. Gr. W. 34 (8 cm)

Most of the bipods for s. Gr. W. 34 (8 cm) are made of Elektron, which requires special protection against corrosion. Blank areas should be coated with acid-free grease and covered with paint again as soon as possible. When repairing and painting, D 143, pages 9 to 11,
must be strictly observed.

To protect the paintwork, it is forbidden to place the carrying frame or ammunition boxes on top of the legs or the tube when loading the s. Gr. W. onto the combat cart (If 9). Until the final loading plan is issued, the combat cart (If 9) is to be loaded according to D 146/2, pages 15 to 18. Other loading methods are prohibited.

O.K.H., 18. 4. 39
- 73 - In 2(IX).

Comments: This order is very specifically about the paintwork on the bipod (but it also mentions the actual tube) for the 8 cm mortar, the schwere Granatwerfer 34.
Elektron is an alloy, which consists of about 90% Magnesium and 10% aluminum, with traces of zinc and tin. It was used extensively in the early years of the Wehrmacht for equipment of “tubular construction” when weight was an issue. Known products include the bipod for the 8cm mortar and the AA-tripod for the light machine guns, the Dreibein 34. “D 143” is the “Dienstvorschrift 143, Vorläufige Anleitung für das Instandsetzen des Granatwerfergeräts, 1938”, which translates to “Preliminary instructions for the repair of the mortar, 1938”. “Gefechtskarren If 9” was a purpose-built horse cart for the heavy mortar introduced in 1938. Ammunition was stored inside the cart, while special brackets on the top and rear of the cart held the mortar.


The Infanterie Anhänger 9 (If9), loaded with the schwere Granatwerfer 34.

“D 146/2” is the “Dienstvorschrift 146/2”, unfortunately, the name of this publication is unknown. D 146/1 is "Der Schwere Granatwerfer 34 (8 cm)".
The signature has a different “archival number” than the others, and the In 2(IX) is from a different sub-office within the In2 than the others. I am guessing the mortar equipment would be the responsibility of this office.


AHM 401/1939. Extended shelf life.

401. Painting of army equipment.

The synthetic resin paints supplied by the contracting companies have a shelf life of 12 months as a result of improved manufacturing techniques. H. M. 1938 page 261 no. 687 #6 changes according to this.

O. K. H., 20. 5. 39
-72 8800 18- In 2 (VIII).

Comments: This order reflects on 687/1938 issued 6 months earlier, which limited the shelf life of the E-paints:
6. Synthetic resin paints have a maximum storage time of 3 months only; this must be taken into account when determining the order quantity.
That is a drastic product improvement!


A Gurttrommel 34 factory painted in Dunkelgrau / Dunkelbraun. Note how the locking lever has been installed after the application of Dunkelbraun camouflage.

HVB 477/1939. Maintenance of bridge equipment

477. Painting of bridge equipment C.

To save raw materials, the bridge equipment C can only be very lightly galvanized. The main protection against corrosion must be established through painting. TL 6323 is decisive for the painting, taking TL 6303 into account. For base coat the color S 0, and for final coats the color S 4 field gray should be used. The bridge parts must be thoroughly cleaned with a rotating steel brush in the damaged areas before painting.

O. K. H., 22. 6. 39
-- 80 d 1010/12 -- In 5 (III).
The order refers to TL 6323, which is "Vorläufige technische Lieferbedingungen für scheuer- und ölfeste Anstrichstoffe (S), 29.4.1937 (mit eingearbeiteten Deckblättern 1-2)". Provisional technical delivery conditions for scrub- and oil-resistant paints, which regulates "S" paints.
TL 6303: Vorläufige Bedingungen für Anstrich (Provisional conditions for painting).

HVB 166/1940. Discontinued paint type

166. Prohibition of use of primer-color for wood light gray G 2.
The use of the primer paint for wood light gray G 2 is prohibited with immediate effect. According to the provisional technical delivery conditions 6340, primer paint for wood G 26 with a 17 to 20% Faktor-varnish or Bisöl should be used instead of primer paint G 2. Bisöl varnish is sold under the name “Doppel-Bisöl-Standöl Nr 1”. By the company Holtz & Willensen, Uerdingen, or Paul Julius Stahlberg, Stettin, Faktor-Varnish under the name “Faktor-Firnis F9616” by the company Nourh & van der Lande, Emmerich (Rhld.). The ban does not apply to primer paint G 2 that has already been produced.

O. K. H., 30. 1. 40
-- 66 b 90. 22 -- Wa Chefing Wa Ro (IV d).
Another one which I find of little interest.. :-). TL 6340: Vorläufige technische Lieferbedingungen für Grundierfarbe für Holz (H-G), which means "Provisional technical delivery conditions for primer paint for wood (H-G)". Although not certain, I think this one belongs with the "painting of building interiors" batch.

HVB 535/1940. Large list of suppliers

535. Approved army equipment paint suppliers of the paint industry. 

Until further notice, the following paint companies have been approved to supply all army paints (with the exception of P-Paints, paragraph 2) in accordance with the latest technical delivery conditions.

The paints must be collected by the army. Technical delivery conditions can be obtained from Beuth-Sales, Berlin SW 68, Dresdener Str. 97.
1. Ackermann & Schwind K. G., Ludwigshafen/Rh., Marstr. 51,
2. J. Albrecht, Lackfabrik, Mainz, Wallaustr. 

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 17. 4. 40
-- 65 a 20. 10 --Wa J Rü (WuG 1/V c 2).

A list of 130 manufacturers of paint approved to deliver P-paint (see AHM 687/1938) to the army. The list covers more than 4 pages, so I have chosen to "hide" the list under the red stripe. Click on the picture on the left above to see the full list.

AHM 744/1940. Summary of rules

744. Painting of army equipment.

1. The units and service locations of the field- and replacement army is prohibited with immediate effect from independently procuring paints (except for small ancillary needs for painters' supplies, graphite paint for field kitchens, sign making, stamps and number plate paint).
2. The procurement route for paints that are required for new production equipment remains the same as before.
3. Beauty-painting is forbidden. Only necessary touch-up of the paintwork in order to preserve the equipment is permitted.
4. The most urgent need for paint is to be requested from the units and departments of the field army through the supply channels. The acquisition troop units and replacement departments request their needs directly from the responsible army supply office.
5. The following ready-to-use paints are kept in stock as paints for repairing army equipment in the army armory depots:
a) for normal army equipment: synthetic resin paint, dark gray E 24 according to TL 6317 B;
b) for armored vehicles: body paint, dark gray P 24 according to TL 6321;
c) for radio and communication equipment: cover paint, dark gray W 24 according to TL 6320;
d) for devices made of magnesium alloys (e.g. Elektron wheels on guns, etc.): top coat, dark gray according to TL 6337.

 O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 12. 6. 40
-85 a/f 60/83- AHA/Fz In (IV g).
Comments: #1. The end-users will no longer be permitted to buy equipment- and vehicle paint from civilian sources.
#5. a) "Dunkelgrau E24". "Dark grey" denotes the color of the paint. "E24" is the quality/composition of the paint, E-paints are artificial resin paints.
For further sub-classification of the paint types see AHM 687/1938.
TL 6317 B: Vorläufige technische Lieferbedingungen für Anstrichstoffe E und EH. This appears to be the specifications as issued by the Heeres Waffen Amt with the requirements that the manufacturers would adhere to for the final product of the E and EH paint types.
Only the title has been identified. I haven't seen the whole document, which is held in the Bundesarchive in Germany.
TL 6320: Vorläufige technische Lieferbedingungen für Anstrichstoffe W und WH.
TL 6321: Vorläufige technische Lieferbedingungen für feuer- und ölbeständige Anstrichstoffe (P).
TL 6337. As of yet, no further information is known.
The signature now reads Oberkommando des Heeres, Chef der Heeresrüstung und Befehlshaber des Ersatzheeres
(Army High Command, Chief of Army Armaments and Commander of the Reserve Army)
"-85 a/f 60/83-" is an archival number, slightly different from the others.
AHA; Allgemeines Heeresamt (General Army Directorate). “Fz In” is the Heeres Feldzeug-Inspektion. (Field gear inspector).


Sign painters at work on the spare tire of a Type 166, Schwimmwagen. According to the regulation above the unit could still procure paint directly from alternative sources to make signs. Note the large collar of the greatcoats. This model was issued in 1944, which makes it easy to date the picture.

HVB 684/1940. New manufacturer added

684. Addendum of approved paint- industry suppliers for military equipment paints.

In addition to H. V. Bl. 1940, Part C, No. 535, par. 2 “Delivery authorization for P-paints according to TL 6321” to the following companies

Carl Dürschmidt, Farbenfabriken, Aussig (Sudeten gau).
The company Bohne & Herrmann, Lackfabrik, Dresden-N., Rankestr. 43, is authorized to deliver wood impregnation according to TL 6313 B for army needs. –

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 17. 6. 40
-- 65 a 20. 10. --  Wa I Rü (WuG 1/B c 2).
Another manufacturer added to the list of approved suppliers.

Stage 3: Dunkelgrau only
 Mid 1940 it was decided to simplify things. Dark brown fell out of favor, and this left dark grey as the only color to be used.

AHM 864/1940. The end for the Zweifarbenanstrich
864. Painting of equipment

In order to save paint, the following is ordered for the duration of the war:
1. Equipment for which the paint finish dark grey/dark brown is prescribed is only given a single-color dark gray paint finish.
2. Obstacle equipment, such as B. K- and S-rolls, barbed wire, smooth wire, is no longer treated with paint.

O.K.H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 31. 7. 40
-72/88/16 - AHA/In 2 (VIII).
Comments: #1. Repainting of equipment by the units would be done in only dark grey from now on.
#2. Pioneer obstacle devices will no longer be painted at all.
The signature has now reverted to the old "standard", but O.K.H is from now on followed by (Ch H Rüst and BdE).

HVB 725/1940. Unsolicited use of gas masks

725. Ban on the use of gas masks as personal protection during painting and spray-painting work.

A film newsreel showed tank troops on cleaning duty who had put on their gas masks to protect themselves against the misty spray fumes. 
The use of the gas mask as a breathing protection for oil and normal paint spray work is not necessary and is prohibited, as the oil-containing spray mist and paint mist clog the filters and damage the gas masks. They will then offer insufficient protection in the event of enemy use of combat agents. 
Special protection masks must be used for all paint spraying work where breathing protection is necessary, especially when using cellulose paints. For this purpose, gas masks or captured gas masks with filters will no longer be used.
Available for:
Workshop- and armored workshop units = 3 protection masks with filters.
To be requested through the supply channels.

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 28. 11. 40
-- B 83 -- In 9 (III/2).
The use of personal gas masks as protection against paint fumes when spray painting is prohibited, as it damages the gas mask. Protection masks will be made available for the units.

HVB 1269/1940. More approved manufacturers

1269. Approved suppliers for military equipment paint from the paint industry.

(1st addendum to H. V. Bl. 1940 Part C No. 535.)
1. Until further notice, the following paint companies will also be authorized to deliver all army paints in accordance with the latest technical delivery conditions (with the exception of P paints, para. 2):
Abshagen & Co. A. G., Wandsbel Hamburg, Helbingstraße 50/52
xxxxxxxxxx

2. The following paint companies are authorized to deliver P-paints according to TL 6321:

A. For painting of steel only.
xxxxxxxxxx

B. For painting of steel and light metal
xxxxxxxxxx

C. For painting light metal only

Herm. Friedr. Lüdicke & Co. GmbH., Berlin-Wilmersdorf, Kaiserallee 31
Warnecke & Böhm, Berlin-Weißensee

The paints from companies approved only for light metals may also be used for painting equipment or parts in which steel and light metals are assembled. However, this exception only applies in the event that the equipment or part of it has been completely painted in the manufacturer's factory. In this case, the same paints should be used for the steel parts as for the light metal parts.

3. It is also pointed out that for the painting of equipment made of steel and iron, for which E-paints according to TL 6317 B or K-paints according to TL 6316 B are specified according to drawings or delivery conditions, from now on by those companies that have over spray- and extraction systems only may use the TL-approved nitro combination paints.

Remaining synthetic resin colors must be used up. Any price changes that occur as a result must be communicated to the client immediately. TL 6303 B will be changed accordingly. 

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 30. 11.40
-- 65 a 20. 10 -- Wa J Rü (W u G 1, V e 2).

Once again, the list of approved manufacturers is expanded. The big list is hidden under the red stripe. Clicking on the picture will expand it to show the full list of manufacturers allowed to manufacture all army paints, except for the P-paints. Those permitted to manufacture P-paints are listed under paragraph 2 in the original.

HVB 167/1941. Change of specs and even more approved manufacturers

167. Army equipment, painting of wood.

With immediate effect the standard paint used on woodwork, Wood Soaking Oil (T) according to TL 6333 B from 1. 7. 1940 used in connection with EH-paints, will be changed to TL 6317 B from 12. 2. 1941. More detailed information about the type of paint and its use can be found in the new TL 6303 B from 10. 2. 1941. For orders that have already been placed, the new editions of the TL listed apply as replacement without the client’s specific consent. Any remaining G 26 can be used up. Any price changes that occur as a result of this (price reduction or increase) are to be reported immediately. The monthly requirement for wood soaking oil must be reported to the undersigned department by the army equipment manufacturing industry, specifying the contracting department, its order number, file number, situation book number, date and the quantity required as well as the urgency level for the equipment.

The wood soaking oil according to TL 6333 B is for the time being obtainable from the company
Ölkontor G. m. b. H., Berlin-Schöneberg, Martin- Luther-Str. 61/66,
City calls: collective number 71 28 11,
Long distance calls: collective number 71 24 78,
Wire address: Ölkontor Berlin,
temporarily up until the transition to the new painting system is complete at some companies in the lacquer and paint industry. Usable EH nitrodeck paints according to TL 6317 B from 12. 2. 1941 for wood soaking oil primer have already been submitted to the Army High Command from the following paint companies, or their paints have been examined:
Chemie-Produkte, Berlin-Britz, Walkenrieder Str. 31/33,
Kleinefeld & Schrader, Magdeburg, Danziger Freiheit 6,
Otto Fritze, Bünauburg b. Bodenbach (Elbe),
Gustav Leuchte Nachfolger, Leipzig W 33,
Lützner- str. 98/100,
Bohne & Herrmann, Dresden-N.,
C. F. Heyde, Berlin-Britz, Rudower Str. 61,
Es-Ka Lackfabrik Walter Schöttler & Muer, Berlin. N 20, Kolonie Str. 115,
Sanabol, Lack- und Farbenfabrik, Berlin-Teltow.

In principle, the paint must always be approved by the army. 
O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 12. 2.41
-- 65 a 20. 10 --  Wa J Rü (WuG 1/V c 2).

Painting of army equipment made of wood should no longer be done with paint according to the technical specifications listed in TL 6333B. Instead, a new paint manufactured according to TL 6317 B should be used from this day on. (All very technical and boring...).

AHM 281/1941. Enter the Deutsche Afrika Korps
281. Painting of army equipment.

 1. Instead of being painted dark grey/dark brown or monochrome dark gray (H. M. 1940 Page 382 no. 864 #1), the equipment (including all motor vehicles) of the troops deployed to Africa is painted yellow-brown RAL. 8000/grey-green RAL 7008, both colors matt (not glossy).
This coat of paint is to be applied in the same way as the previous one, yellow-brown instead of dark gray and grey-green instead of dark brown.

The colors are not to be sharply contrasted with one another, rather they must gradually merge into one another. Small areas (also spoked wheels and disc wheels) can be painted in one color. Yellow-brown is predominant, approximately two-thirds yellow-brown and one-third gray-green in proportion.

2. The colors are to be procured by the troops. Suppliers are announced in H. V. Bl 1940 Part C page 180 no. 535 and page 531 no. 1269.

The following are to be used:
for armored cars: P color,
for communication devices (radio equipment): W-color, if the device is painted with this color,
for equipment made of magnesium alloys (e.g. electron wheels on guns, etc.): color according to TL 6337,
for equipment made of canvas: color according to the following number 3,
for other devices: synthetic resin paint (E paint).
In addition to ready-to-use synthetic resin paints (E), provided the troops have spray guns - nitro combination paints according to TL 6317 B from 12. 2, 41 apply.

If P, W. and E colors are not available, washable (wipe and rainproof, non-flammable) camouflage colors according to TL 6345 (emulsion paints, washable with a root brush and soda water) can be used for all vehicles and army equipment (including armored vehicles). These can be painted (drying time approx. 30 minutes) or sprayed on diluted with water. Already established troops can request the colors through the supply system.

3. "Paints for canvas" from the following companies should be used to paint canvas equipment (tarpaulins, covers, protective covers, etc.):
Ewald Dörken, Herdecke (Ruhr),
Hermann Wiederhold, Hilden (Rhld.),
Hermann Wiederhold, Nürnberg,
Dr. J. Perl & Co., Berlin-Tempelhof,
Gustav Ruth, Hamburg Wandsbel,
Farbenfabrik Hansa, F. Weißhun & Co., Kiel,
Carl Dürschmidt, Aussig (Sudetengau),
Schwaab, Weingarten (Baden),
Dr. Wide, Berlin-Tempelhof, Reichsbahn Privat-
straße,
Reichhold, Flügger & Boeding, Hamburg 35,
Hammerdeich 60/68,
Reichhold, Flügger & Boeding, Wien XXI, Breiten-
leerstraße,
A. Zansi Söhne, Graz,
Zoellner Werle, Berlin-Neukölln,
Chemieprodukte, Berlin-Britz, Wallenrieder Straße,
Heimberg & Grefers, Krefeld, Schließfach 276,
Glasurit Werke, M. Winkelmann, Hamburg 1, Bank-
straße,
Court & Baur, Köln-Ehrenfeld,
Herbig Haarhaus, Köln Bidendorf,
Aug. Merkens, Eschweiler (Kr. Aachen),
Jurolin, Inh. Robert May, Elbing (Ostpr.),
R. Baumheier K. G., Oschatz-Zschöllau,
Immalin-Werke, Mettmann (Rhlb.),
Beck, Koller & Co., Berlin Weißensee,
Spieß, Heder & Co., Köln-Raderthal,
Theodor Kotthoff, Köln Raderthal.

The canvas should be thoroughly cleaned of dust before painting; it must be perfectly dry. The colors should be stirred well before use and applied once with a brush to cover the surface. The first coat is done with yellow-brown leaving the stains for grey-green. Then grey-green is painted on.
 4. The costs of the painting are to be charged to chapter VIII E 230.

O.K.H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 17. 3. 41 
-72/88/16-  AHA/In 2 (VIII).
Comments: The regulations in this publication all pertains to units already in Africa, or about to be deployed there.
#1: The Zweifarbenanstrich (dark grey/dark brown camouflage) was declared dead in the summer of 1940. But in March 1941 the new Deutsche Afrika Korps (DAK) is ordered to paint their equipment in a two-tone camouflage for the dessert climate! Chosen colors are yellow-brown RAL 8000 and grey-green RAL 7008. There is no reference to a Farbenkarte name, but since the RAL codes now have four digits, it must be the new RAL 840 R.


Tiger 131 at the Tank Museum in Bovington/UK has been restored to the original camouflage scheme of RAL 8000 & RAL 7008 as ordered for the DAK.

#2: The troops will once again be responsible for the procurement of paint. The available manufacturers referred to were listed in the Heeres Verordnungsblatt 535/1940 and 1269/1940, already dealt with.


Glasurit Werke, M. Winkelmann, Hamburg 1, was listed as one of the suppliers of paint for canvas.

HVB 429/1941. How to (or not to) buy paint in France
Boring!

429. Guidelines on the procurement of paints in France.

The independent procurement of paints by the units is forbidden. In any case, the need for paint that arises must be met in the manner described in more detail below.

Only lacquer and paints that are ready to use are allowed be procured, unless it involves glue or watercolors. When purchasing ready-to-paint lacquers and paints, a distinction must be made between:

A. General paints.
This refers to lacquer colors that may be manufactured without any delivery regulations. The general paints are now included in the lacquer plan offered by all the French lacquer factories via the French lacquer association. For the procurement of paint for the units the following path is determined: The need for equipment is above the prescribed one. Replenishment service must be submitted to O. Qu. France (Field supply unit), who will forward the reported requirements to the raw material liaison office O. K. H.
H. K. P., Field repair Workshops, Central spare parts depot and other requirements must be reported directly to the Raw material liaison office O. K. H. at the Army Supply Office, Paris.
After verification by the Army Supply Office, they will be forwarded to the Wi Rü Staff France/Dept. Ro. Once approval has been granted, the French paint association (for deliveries over 5000 RM over the rate) receives the orders with the condition that they place them with the French lacquer and paint industry.

B. TL - paints.
The raw material offices of the individual parts of the Wehrmacht decide whether to exchange TL paints for French paints, as it has been proven that the French paint qualities are equivalent to most TL paints.

C. Specialty paints.
Such as food container lacquer, lacquer for bullet casings, Agm paints, aircraft paint. These special paints must be obtained from the Reich through the supply system as before. 

O.K.H. 12. 5. 41
-- 1139. 5. 41 -- Wa Stab I b (I b 2).
No comments needed.


HVB 565/1941. How to (or not to) buy paint in France, part 2
Just as boring

565. Guidelines for the procurement of paints in France.

H. V. Bl. 1941 Nr. 429 must be changed by hand as follows:

Point B (TL paint):

O. K. H. Wa A (Wa Chef Ing 1) decides on the exchange of TL paints for army equipment with French paints. The following information must be provided to Wa Chief Ing 1:
1. Specify the amount of paint required. Applications must only be submitted if 100 kg or more are required. At the same time send a sample of approximately 1 kg of the paint to be tested to Wa Chef Ing 1.
2. Quantity specification of the existing stock of paint to be checked.
3. What type of equipment will the paint be used on?

Point C Special paint:
Put in behind Aircraft paint: P paint. 

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 14. 6. 41
-- 1139. 5. 41 -- Wa Stab (I b 2).

-------------------------------

Still nothing to comment...


HVB 715/1941. How to paint army equipment

715. Painting of military equipment.

1. 1. The units and service locations of the field- and replacement army is prohibited with immediate effect from independently procuring paints (except for small ancillary needs for painters' supplies, graphite paint for field kitchens, sign making, stamps and number plate paint). (H. M. 1940 No. 744). As a consequence of this, procurement is carried out exclusively by the Army procurement Office or, in special cases, by the Army supply departments.

2. The procurement route for paints that are required for new production equipment remains the same as before.

3. Cosmetic-painting is forbidden. Only necessary touch-up of the paintwork in order to preserve the equipment is permitted.
4. The most urgent need for paint is to be requested from the units and departments of the field army through the supply channels.
5. The following ready-to-paint colors are available for repairing military equipment in stock in military supply depots:
a) for standard army equipment: Synthetic resin paint, dark gray E 24 according to TL 6317 B;
b) for armored fighting vehicles etc.: Cover paint, dark gray P 24 according to TL 6321;
c) for radio and messaging equipment: Cover paint, dark gray W 24 according to TL 6320;
d) for equipment made of magnesium alloys (f. ex. wheels made of Elektron on artillery guns etc.): Cover paint, dark gray according to TL 6337;
e) for Tropical use: washable camouflage paints according to TL 6345.

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 25. 9. 41
66 b 30.30 Wa Chef Ing 2/Wa Ro L.
1354.9. 41

This announcement is interesting, as it is the only one I have found that has been (partially) cross-published in AHM and HVB. It was first published on 12 June 1940 in the AHM 744, slightly shorter. The added text refers to the original text, and then specifies which office is allowed to buy paint. A bullet point e) has been added at the end to cover the new "market", the tropics!
So why was this publication printed for the second time, 15 months after its first release? The reason, as far as I can tell, lies in the message: Units are not allowed to buy their own paint without any control by the WaA. Re-addressing this message means that the units haven't done as they were told. Reason might be two-fold. 1. Limited shelf-life makes procured paint useless, while the units buy fresh paint directly from the manufacturers. 2. The quality of the paint bought directly without control might be inferior both in regards to quality and color.

AHM 1128/1941. Winter Wonderland
1128. Painting of army equipment.

The troops in Norway, on the Finnish front and in Russia can paint the equipment - especially vehicles including motor vehicles - with white paint for the duration of the snow periode for camouflage purposes. Arrangement of the painting is left to the unit commanders.
Washable camouflage color is to be used according to the modified Technical Delivery Terms 6345 (TL 6345). The paint is to be requested by units and service locations through the supply system. It is to be applied to the existing dark gray paint and washed off after the snow has gone.

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 18. 11. 41
-72/88/16-AHA/In 2 (VIII).


(Picture courtesy of Øyvind Leonsen)
A Panzerkampfwagen II somewhere on the Northern front. 

Comments: The white "paint" added to the Panzer shows wear, being of the "washable type". The helmet hanging on the turret has received a whitewash as well. The application of the white paint was up to the commanders' discretion, a fact that often led to fanciful patterns.....In this case it seems to have been applied all over, but worn off again. More often than not, the troops were unable to acquire "washable paint", and had to use permanent paint, which in turn lead to the need of repainting the equipment when the snow melted away.


A camouflaged M35 helmet. The whitewash applied the year before was probably impossible to remove, so the owner has simply added a new layer of green and brown.


Fallschirmjägers, January 1945. Camouflage saves lives! Note the whitewashed pair of binoculars.


A supply order from the Chief Quartermaster of the IV SS-Panzer Korps. Even as late as 13th February 1945 the relative short shelf life was stressed to avoid unnecessary losses.
"2.) White camouflage color. White camouflage paint as an emulsion paint only has a shelf life of 3 months. Larger quantities must therefore not be stored for longer."


A supply order from the 168. Infantry Division from 24. November 1942.
"11. Camouflage paint.
From 1.12.42, vehicles (cars and carts) without camouflage paint are no longer allowed to cross the Dewiza to the east."
I assume Dewiza is in fact one of the two Devitsa Rivers, west of Voronezha.

AHM 315/1942. Deutsche Afrika Korps in new shades
315. Painting of army equipment.

1. Instead of the dark gray paint (HM 1940 page 382 no. 864 #1), the equipment - including motor vehicles - of the troops deployed in Africa is painted brown RAL 8020/grey RAL 7027, both colors matt (not glossy).

Brown 8020 is dominant, roughly two-thirds brown 8020, one-third gray 7027. Gray should be applied in irregular patches, with the two colors gradually blending into one another.

Small surfaces, wheels, etc. can be painted in one color 8020 or 7027.

The paint should be requested through the supply chain, but the previous colors 8000 and 7008 are to be used up.

H. M. 1941 page 140 no. 281 expires.

2. Washable paint according to H. M. 1941 page 596 no. 1128 is also to be used for painting tarpaulins.

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 25. 03. 42  
- 72/88/16 - AHA/In 2 (VIII).
Comments: Change of plans! The previous choice of a camouflage in RAL 8000 & RAL 7008 is now replaced by the colors RAL 8020 & RAL 7027.
Existing stocks of the old colors to be used up first.

All equipment and vehicles used in Northern Africa by the DAK ended its life in Northern Africa. The DAK was totally annihilated in Tunis after the Allied “Operation Torch” in 1943. Equipment once sent to the DAK did not see use anywhere else. Equipment in DAK colors therefore only exist as war trophies taken by the Allied forces. No one got away, no one were evacuated, save a few airplanes. The only items that ever left North Africa got to Europe with wounded soldiers or soldiers on leave. Due to this, DAK painted equipment is extremely rare today outside of museums in the former Allied countries, or as smaller items taken as souvenirs by allied soldiers. The dark yellow we will encounter later is a completely different ball game.


(Picture courtesy of Øyvind Leonsen)
American airmen discussing how to get this souvenir with them back home from Tunis.

The tank above is a Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf F, painted in what I believe is RAL 8000. It is very hard to distinguish which colors were used in Africa, even though we have the list of colors used in the theater. The dust and mud stuck to the vehicles, and the sun bleached both paintwork and clothing.


Breaking the rules! An 8-wheeled Panzerspähwagen pictured in Tunis, 28th January 1942. An improvised camouflage has been added, as the terrain in Tunis featured a lot more vegetation compared to the dessert.

HVB 408/1942. How to acquire paint for camouflaging buildings
(Dull warning!)

 408. Creation of a central office for camouflage colors for the German Reich and the occupied territories.

The production and total consumption of camouflage colors for buildings and ground installations in the Reich, Protectorat, Generalgouvernement and in the occupied areas are being managed as planned.

When camouflaging buildings and ground installations the following should be noted: 
Camouflage colors for buildings and ground camouflage are declared to be air-raid objects that are used in accordance with § 8 of the air-raid law from 26, 6. 1935 (Law of the Reich, I, p. 827) in the publication of the III. ABD in the air-raid law of 8. 9. 1939 (Law of the Reich, I, p. 1762) in conjunction with the IV. Implementation Ordinance of the Air-raid law of 31. 1. 1938 (Law of the Reich, I, p. 197) require a distribution permit from the Luftwaffe for air-raid protection.

Until the distribution permit for camouflage paints has been issued to the manufacturing companies, only camouflage paints that have been approved as »RLM camouflage colors« may be used. The authorized companies that can manufacture RLM camouflage paint are published in the “preliminary application and processing regulations for RLM camouflage paints” with supplementary lists (refer to publisher Rudolf Müller, Eberswalde). The camouflage colors are mainly developed on uncultivated or little-exploited raw materials. The systematic use of the raw materials makes it necessary to use the different camouflage color groups only for very specific applications. For the correct use of the camouflage colors, please refer to the current application and processing instructions for RLM camouflage paints.

The total production of camouflage paint for buildings and ground installations has been established by R. d. L. u. Ob. d. -- L In -- 13. The quantities of camouflage paint available are allocated according to tactical considerations according to the LGK’s – I a op 3 (LS) --. The recipients apply for approval to purchase the required quantities of camouflage paints by submitting verified needs assessments to the LGK – I a op 3 (LS) --.  After determining the urgency and necessity of the needs, the LGK’s grant the procurement approval for the requested camouflage paints within the allotted contingents made available each month. The verified applications of the applicants are processed by the service departments of the – I a op 3 (LS) of the LGK and issued with an official stamp

“Checked and approved
Luftgaukommando …………….. -I a op 3 (LS)
Signature”  

The companies producing camouflage paint are instructed by the Reichsstelle Chemie to only deliver camouflage paints on the basis of a procurement permit from LGK’s – I a op 3 (LS) --. For the orders placed directly with the companies, which cannot be fulfilled immediately, the district authorities also provide official contracts. For reasons of proper control of the production and consumption of camouflage paint for buildings and ground installations in the future, the Reichsstelle Chemie will prohibit the unauthorized procurement of camouflage paints or raw materials for the production of camouflage paints. This regulation comes into force on 1. 3. 1942. 

O.K.H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 29.4. 42
70 k 10/10 Wa A/Wa Chef Ing 1/Vb.
709. 4.42

The camouflage of buildings (specifically painting of camouflage on buildings and constructions) sorted under the Luftschutz, and was a Luftwaffe area of responsibility. This announcement was initially published by the Luftwaffe on 1. March 1942, and then republished in the HVB on 29. April 1942.
"R. d. L. u. Ob. d. L." = "Der Reichsminister der Luftfahrt und Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe."

AHM 600/1942. Crete
600. Painting of army equipment.

 The regulation in H. M. 1942 page 180 no. 315 Painting of equipment for the troops in Africa - also applies to the troops on the island of Crete.

 O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 3. 7. 42
- 72/88/16 - AHA/In 2 (VIII).
The island of Crete was obviously considered to be comparable to Africa. But the rest of Greece and southern Italy was not included. The equipment on Crete was supposed to be painted in the same way as the equipment in Africa. The German forces occupying Crete stayed there until the final surrender of the Third Reich, so it is not likely that any of the equipment there would have been moved to other theatres of war.

HVB 670/1942. LW RLM-paint regulations for the Heer.
Technical-dull...

670. RLM. - camouflage paint.
Ready-to-apply mineral paints that are not mixed produce a less weatherproof and durable coating compared to freshly mixed mineral paints. This is due to the fact that a chemical layering takes place between the color powder (pigment) and the binding agent (potassium silicate) after mixing. If the ready-made mass is stored for a longer period of time, this conversion progresses to such an extent that the color dries up and becomes completely unusable.

With the repeal of conflicting regulations, it is therefore ordered that in the case of longer storage times and transport routes, for example when camouflage paint is shipped to occupied areas, mineral paints are to be delivered separated in color powder and binder. Mineral paint colors are only prepared immediately before use by mixing one part of color powder with two parts of potassium silicate (22° Beaumé) until lump-free. (Put colored powder into the potassium silicate, not the other way around!) To check whether the mixture has been chosen in the right proportion to the absorbency of the surface, a sample of the mixed paint must be applied.

After about an hour the test application is
a) smudge-proof and not shiny, then the mixing ratio of the paint and the absorbency of the surface are in the right proportion. The painting can start;
b) shiny, then the paint contains too much potassium silicate. More pigment powder must be added until the test application becomes smudge-proof and no longer shines;
c) full of powder, the pigment is excreted on the surface and the potassium silicate is absorbed into the surface. More potassium silicate must be added to the mixture, or the surface must be treated with a potassium silicate dissolution (22° Beaumé), which has been mixed 1: 1 with low-salt water, for example rainwater, until the new test application remains smudge-proof and not shiny

Mineral paint colors separated into color powder and binder can be purchased from the following companies:
Henkel & Cie. A.G., Düsseldorf,
Silinwerk van Baerle & Co., G. m. b. H.,
Fernsheim/Rhein,
Farbenwerke Friedrich & Carl Hessel A. G.,
Rerchau b. Leipzig,
Industriewerke Lohwald Odemar & Co., Lohwald b. Augsburg

In the event of short supply routes and direct use, the mineral paint colors can also be obtained in a ready-to-paint or ready-to-spray condition in the future.
Der R. d. L. u. Ob. d. L., 29. 7. 42,
41 L 14 12 r. 25228/42 (L In 13/3 (III B-b).

The above decree is announced. It is also valid for the army.
O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 18. 8. 42
39/42    B 4 (II).
923/42                 
A rather technical announcement regarding correct mixing of paints. Originally published by the Luftwaffe, and then 3 weeks later in the HVB.
"R. d. L. u. Ob. d. L." = "Der Reichsminister der Luftfahrt und Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe."

HVB 671/1942. Recycling!

671. Return of packaging for camouflage colors.
According to a communication from the R. d. L. u. Ob. d. L., the supply of camouflage colors has recently been jeopardized by the fact that the packaging belonging to the supplying companies is increasingly not being returned at all or is being returned in a badly damaged condition.
Transport containers for camouflage paints and binders must be returned to the delivery companies in perfect condition immediately after being emptied. The local construction managers should be held responsible for careful handling and timely transport of the packaging. Keeping packaging in bulk, even if corresponding quotas are allocated to the delivery companies, is prohibited. 

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 17. 8. 42
--66-- B7 (XVI).
This order is related to camouflage paint used on buildings and fortifications.
"R. d. L. u. Ob. d. L." = "Der Reichsminister der Luftfahrt und Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe."

HVB 66/1942. Special rules for paint in Western Europe
Dullish

66. Paint for the occupied western territories.

Delivery conditions for painting and paint have been published for the occupied western territories (France, Belgium, Netherlands), namely TL 6500 “Preliminary conditions for painting (f)” and TL 6501 “Preliminary technical delivery conditions for paint F”. New production and repairs of paint on military equipment in these areas can only be carried out using approved paint materials from these areas that comply with TL 6501.
The technical delivery conditions (TL) can be requested from Feldpost No. 37 468. 

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 14. 1. 43

70 k 10/10 Wa Chef Ing 1 (V b).
0246/43                              

I must admit I have no idea why the paint from "western Europe" needed special delivery terms...

Stage 4: Yellow base
The groundbreaking change from Dunkelgrau to Dunkelgelb was introduced in early 1943. All army equipment would be delivered in dark yellow, and it would be left up to the units to add camouflage to the base color as needed.

AHM 181/1943. Dark yellow is the new black!
181. Painting of army equipment.

 1. Equipment painting. In place of the previous equipment paint, dark grey-dark brown, which was changed to monochromatic dark gray for the duration of the war, as well as the equipment paint colors brown-grey for the troops in Africa and on Crete, large equipment will be painted with immediate effect in

dark yellow according to a (physical) sample.

The number of the RAL color chart for this dark yellow will be determined later. Physical samples are available from the Army Weapons Office Wa J Rü (W u G 1/V), Berlin W 15, Sächsischestr. 8 on request.
For small equipment that is carried in vehicles (e.g. communications equipment, equipment boxes, tool boxes, boxes and cases for veterinary equipment, filing boxes), the previous paintwork must be retained until further notice.
To be used for painting
P color according to TL 6321 for tanks,
W color according to TL 6320 for radio and communication equipment,
Cover paint according to TL 6337 for equipment made of magnesium alloys (e.g. Elektron wheels on guns),
otherwise synthetic resin paint according to TL 6317 B.
Any conflicting regulations shall become ineffective.

2. Camouflage paint. The camouflage of the device by applying appropriate colors according to the respective field conditions is left to the decision of the units. For this purpose, the troops are to carry camouflage pastes (3) in the following colors
olive green according to the R.L.M. color chart for camouflage colors (building and ground camouflage),
red brown, RAL 8017,
dark yellow according to a sample as in number 1.

3. The camouflage pastes according to #2 will be handed out to the troops via the supply system. The following flat rates apply to calculate the total amount for each unit


 olive green kg red- brown
kg		 dark- yellow
kg
One-horse cart…………….. 0,5 0,5 0,5
Waggon pulled by two or more horses (including trailer)……….. 1,0 1,0 1,0
Field guns up to and including
7,5 cm Kal.…………………		 0,5 0,5 0,5
Field guns up to and including
10,5 cm Kal.…………………		 1,0 1,0 1,0
Field guns up to and including
21 cm Kal.…………………		 1,5 1,5 1,5
Field guns larger than
21 cm Kal.…………………		 2,0 2,0 2,0
Rocket launcher of all types …… 1,0 1,0 1,0
Heavy launcher (for 10 racks ea)……………………….. 1,0 1,0 1,0
Tanks………….. 2,0 2,0 2,0
Personnel car  ……………… 0,5 0,5 0,5
Truck up to 2 t  ……………….. 1,0 1,0 1,0
Truck larger than 2t ……………. 1,5 1,5 1,5
1-axle trailer  …………. 0,5 0,5 0,5
2-axle trailer  …………. 1,0 1,0 1,0

 The camouflage pastes are supplied in shipping containers of 2 and 20 kg. The total quantity per unit is to be rounded down to a number that can be divided by 2. For quantities over 20 kg, packing containers of 20 kg are to be used first, for the remainder those of 2 kg.
In view of the existing raw material, production and transport situation, it must be made compulsory for the troops to handle paint and camouflage pastes with care and to limit their consumption to what is absolutely necessary.

4. The forms in which the camouflage pastes are to be applied are left to the discretion of the troops. It will mostly come down to dividing the area of ​​a device (vehicle) by different colors for the view. In general, applying larger patches of color while avoiding any regularity ("cloud-like") has proven successful.
The camouflage pastes are to be used as delivered or after adding water or fuel. In addition to brushes, they can also be applied with tools (brushes, cloths) and are dry after a short time. They are also suitable for camouflaging wagon tarpaulins.
If it is necessary to remove applied camouflage pastes, this can be done with fuel. 

5. The winter camouflage (in snow-covered terrain) consists until further notice of white paint with emulsion paint according to TL 6345. All equipment that is handed over to the field troops up to the end of February 1943 is to be provided with this paint before dispatch. Introduction of white camouflage paste for winter camouflage will be ordered later.

6. Transitional regulations.
a) Newly manufactured equipment that has already received the previous coat of paint must be repainted before delivery in accordance with Section 1 or - equipment made of woven fabric - recolored.
b) Equipment in the inventory is only to be handed over with paint or color according to number 1. This equipment is also to be painted over with white emulsion paint if it is sent before the end of February 1943 (#5).
c) For the field troops, the painting of the equipment already in use (dark gray or -- for troops in Africa and Crete -- brown-grey) will not be changed. Necessary camouflage is to be carried out with
camouflage paste (#2 to #4).
d) In the case of the replacement and occupation troops, the equipment is to be provided with a new coat of paint as per #1 as soon as possible. The paint required for this (#1 para. 4) and the camouflage paste to which the units is entitled (#2, #3) must be requested through the supply chain. However, changing the color of wagon tarpaulins must be done with camouflage paste.

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 18. 2. 43
-72/88/16- In 2 (V).
Comments: #1. Dramatic change! By the stroke of a typewriter, the previously used dark colors are all history. All equipment, with the exception of equipment carried inside of vehicles, will from now on be painted in "Dunkelgelb" (dark yellow).

And then one of life’s greatest mysteries (when it comes to German WW2 paint definitions) appears in the single written line “Dunkelgelb nach Muster”. This has been interpreted as if the name of the new paint-color is precisely that: “Dunkelgelb nach Muster”. This is absolutely not the case (and nonsense!). The text says that the color to be used must be "dark yellow" according to a sample! The text continues to state that the RAL color chart number has not yet been determined, but that samples of the paint color are available from "Wa J Rü (W u G 1/V), Berlin" (Waffen Amtsgruppe Industrielle Rüstung (Waffen und Gerät 1/V) ). The name of the paint is “Dunkelgelb”, and nothing else.

#2. All previous regulations, with the exception of 1128/1941, which permitted the units to apply snow camouflage, have regulated the actual application of the paint. This all ends now. Camouflage will be applied by the units themselves as they see fit. For this purpose, they will be issued color-pigments as a paste that will enable them to mix their own paint “when needed”. The order actually states that the paint is issued to be "carried by the units", with the vision of them painting the camouflage as they move along...  The paste would be diluted with water or gasoline. The basecoat is dark yellow according to the sample, mentioned in #1. In addition, they will receive red-brown, RAL 8071, and “R.L.M olive green”. This color is, oddly enough, not RAL coded yet, but rather from the pallet of the Reichs Luftfahrt Ministerium. Therefore, out of the three new colors one is coded in the standard system, one is picked from the Luftwaffe’s color system used for ground camouflage and one is in none of the above and must be viewed as a physical sample.
#4. No more use of Farbtafeln. It is entirely up to the individual "artist". Only broad guidelines are given.


A halftrack that still retains the original paintwork applied according to the regulations of 18 February 1943.

#5. Equipment handed out from the supply system within the month of February will be delivered painted in whitewash according to TL 6345.
#6. a) Equipment that has already been manufactured, but not yet received by the respective depots must be repainted to dark yellow.
b) Equipment that has already been received by the depots must be repainted in dark yellow before it is issued to the units.
If the equipment is issued to units before the end of February 1943 it must also be whitewashed.
c) Equipment held by frontline troops should not be repainted, but the colors mentioned in 2-4 added for camouflage effect.


A Sonderkraftfahrzeug 250 (Sd.Kfz. 250) camouflaged according to c). It was delivered and used in "Dunkelgrau", but has received a free-hand painted camouflage in what appears to be "Dunkelgelb".


(Picture courtesy of Øyvind Leonsen)
Russia spring/summer 1943. Two Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf F and a Panzerkampfwagen 38 (t) in the background. The tanks initially saw service in Dunkelgrau, but were later camouflaged according to the regulations of 18. February 1943. # 6, c).

d) Equipment held by units in the homeland or on occupation duty should be repainted in dark yellow as soon as possible with the paints and colors mentioned above.


Tigers on the Eastern Front. These tanks were delivered to the unit in pure Dunkelgelb and are being camouflaged before they are put to use.

The camouflage scheme as regulated above is often referred to as "Normandie camo", but this and many other fanciful names are postwar-collector-created.

HVB 218/1943. Special rules for paint in Western Europe #2
Oh...back to dull again.

218. Paint for the occupied western territories.

Following the publication in H. V. Bl. 1943 Part B p. 29 No. 66, the TL 6500 and 6501 were requested by numerous military units and companies that are not located in occupied western areas. The TL 6500 and 6501 are only distributed to troops, departments and companies located in the occupied western territories (France, Belgium, Netherlands). The previous requests addressed to the field post office number 37 468 will not be carried out. Those units for which the above arrangement applies must write a new request. 

O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 30. 3. 43
70 k 10/10 Wa Chef Ing 1 (Vb).
02067/43
Confusion reigns. The units involved must try again...


Somewhere in Greece. A requisitioned LW staff car has received a correct coat of Dunkelgelb, with green or brown camouflage added.
Note how the larger fields of Dunkelgelb have been broken up with "dabs" of camouflage between the lines.


AHM 322/1943. Specifying the standards!
322. Painting of army equipment.
-H. M. 1943 page 113 no. 181. -
1. The colors
        dark yellow according to a (physical) sample
        and
       olive green according to the R.L.M. color chart for             camouflage colors (building and ground camouflage)
have been included in the RAL color register 840 R under the following designation:
        dark yellow RAL 7028,
        olive green RAL 6003.
H. M. 1943 page 113 no. 181 #1 paragraph 2 is hereby cancelled.
Color cards for inclusion in the RAL color register 840 R will be issued to all service locations without request. From now on, paint and camouflage pastes can be requested under the new designation.
    2. Bast fiber canvas (canvas made from flax and hemp for wagon tarpaulins, protective covers, etc.) is to be used in its raw state, impregnated - i.e. undyed.
    With regard to the application of camouflage by the units, the regulation in H.M. 1943 page 113 no. 181 #2 ff applies.
O. K. H. (Ch H Rüst and BdE), 3. 4. 43
72/88/16 - In 2 (V).
Comments: This is the last of the color & paint regulations as published in the Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen. It starts with a reference to the previous order which introduced the dark yellow as the new standard color.
#1. The previous "temporary" names and reference to the color sample is now replaced with the appropriate RAL codes for the colors. It took 44 days to get the classification done and approved. They are added to the RAL 840R color chart. Although the RAL 840R has been replaced several times since then, the codes are still valid today. This order clearly states that the "Dunkelgelb nach Muster" will now be designated as "Dunkelgelb RAL 7028", and clearly is the same color.
#2. Canvas used as covers, tarpaulins etc. will no longer be dyed.


Although the above regulation concerns the Wehrmacht's handling of its equipment, it is clear that some of the industry that manufactured it got the same instructions. MP40 pouches dated 1944 can often be found in "undyed", mint condition.


Fallschirmjäger-communication soldiers hitch a ride. Summer of 1944. The Kübelwagen was initially issued in Dunkelgelb, but has received a camouflage pattern in two colors.


245. Painting of army equipment.
In regards to the painting of army equipment, please refer to the General Army Notices 1943, number 181.
SS-FHA/Amtsgr. A/Amt VII
The Waffen-SS also obeyed the centrally issued orders that regulated paint and painting. This regulation from the SS-Führungsamt / Amtsgruppe A simply refers to the AHM 181/1943 displayed above.

HVB 376/1943. Pioniergerät not to be painted

376] Painting of army equipment.
(H. M. 1943 S. 113 Nr. 181
H. M. 1943 S. 220 Nr. 322.)
The following pioneering equipment will retain the color it had prior to the order in H. M. 1943- P. 113 No. 181: Floating bags of all kind         Pi. Führgs. boat
Pi. Landing craft             Bridge Equipment S
Pi. Landing bridge          Bridge Equipment H
(Sea Serpent)                                            
Pi. Landing craft                    light Z-Bridge
400 HP Pi. Stu. Boat 42  Heavy Booty Br. Equipment
      (heavy)
The rest of the large pioneering equipment will be painted dark yellow.

Camouflage paste needed                                          
                       Olive green  reddish brown  dark yellow
each half pontoon,   3 kg                3 kg              3 kg  
end or middle section                                                   
each storm boat         2 kg                 2 kg              2 Kg

Newly manufactured equipment and equipment in stock that already have the previous dark gray paint can be handed over to the troops with this paint. Repainting or recoloring is not necessary.
For the replacement Army, the repainting must be carried out in accordance with the paint delivery.
H. M. 1943 p. 113/114 No. 181 Paragraph 6 a, b and  d change hereafter.
For winter camouflage (when there is snow)
after the washable camouflage paint has been used up
(H. M. 1941 p. 596 no. 1128, H. M. 1942 p. 180 no. 315 Number 2).
white camouflage paste, RAL 9002
TL 6355 from 15. 7. 1943 will be used.

H. M. 1943 p. 113/114 No. 181 Paragraph 5 is hereby completed.
O K. H. (Ch H Rüst u. BdE), 11. 10. 43
-- 72/88/16 -- In 2 (VI).
As a peculiarity; 23 announcements later the very same order with the same date was reposted. The only difference between them I can find is that the new version has paragraphs 1-4...

 
Click on the picture above to see the HVB 399/1943, which is identical to the above HVB 376/1943.........
42. Painting of Army equipment.
With reference to the General Army Bulletin (19)43, paragraph 118, the dark gray paint of the army equipment must be changed to dark yellow at an accelerated pace.
SS-FHA/Amtsgr. A/Amt X
Even W-SS troops didn't always follow orders... 5 months after the first order to change from Dunkelgrau to Dunkelgelb this reminder was published in the "Kraftfahrtechnischer Anhang" (Motor vehicle technical appendix). Worth noting is the fact that the reference given is wrong. "43 Ziff. 118" should have read "(19)43 Ziff. 181".


Anything goes! Camouflaged according to regulations, but hardly a classic. If you ever make a model like this and turn up at the IPMS competition proudly displaying this camouflage you will probably be thrown out of the window...

This paint scheme idea was excellent in theory, but not always working in real life. Vehicles got delivered to the units in Dunkelgelb, and could be camouflaged by the users according to the vegetation and terrain it was supposed to be operating in.
But often supply of the camouflage paint didn't take place, and the troops had to use whatever they could find. Anything that could break up the relatively light hue would be used, civilian paint, tar, used oil or mud!
After the initial heavy losses of vehicles in Normandy to Allied fighters the Wa J Rü 6/VIII" (Waffen Amtsgruppe Industrielle Rüstung 6/VIII ) issued an order on 19 August 1944 that armored vehicles must be camouflage painted in the factories before they were handed over to the users.

Stage 5: Going green!  (Die grüne Wende....)

Up until now, all major changes in the colors used on Wehrmacht equipment was published in the AHM. For some unknown reason this changes now, and the last and most important change in the choice of colors for the Wehrmacht is published in the HVB instead!

HVB 52/1945. The death of Dunkelgelb as a basecoat.

Regulations from the Army High Command.

52. Painting of army equipment.
New production.

1. New army equipment will be painted with a green paint instead of yellow paint (RAL 7028), if a coat of paint is needed. The color is RAL 6003, paint types as before.

2. The painting regulations, which were received by all Army supply departments in October 44 will detail which equipment will need to receive a new coat of paint, even though the equipment is new and manufactured in accordance with the information in the drawings and equipment delivery conditions.

3. Equipment for which a camouflage coating is planned during production in accordance with these painting regulations must be painted green until the corresponding camouflage template is available. The camouflage templates will be sent to the manufacturers by the procurement departments of the Army Weapons Office once they are ready.

4. The colors for the camouflage paint are

Green RAL 6003                                                        
Brown RAL 8017              1944 issue of the RAL-color Yellow RAL 7028                                      chart 840 R 
Use approximately equal quantities when painting the camouflage pattern.  

5. Existing stocks of yellow paint (color RAL 7028) must be used for the following purposes:

a) for small equipment, as long as it is not personal equipment carried by the individual soldier,
b) for equipment only used in the home war area,
c) for the yellow portion of the colored camouflage paint.

 In cases of doubt regarding a) and b), the Army supply departments will make the decision. The Army supply departments will decide when the continued use of the yellow color can be tolerated, including when used on large equipment.

6. The use of yellow color is prohibited with immediate effect for large equipment that are loaded onto open wagons during rail transport. If the timely procurement of green paint encounters insurmountable difficulties, this must be reported immediately by telegraph to the Heeres Waffenamt (Wa Chief Ing 1), Berlin-Charlottenburg, Jebensstr. 1 (31 00 12, 31 83 01/ App. 33 86). The supply of equipment must not be delayed by the lack of green paint.

Equipment in inventory
7. In order to save raw materials, the yellow equipment held by the troops or in supply inventories will not be repainted. If a camouflage coating is planned, it must be temporarily camouflaged with green and brown camouflage pastes. “Guidelines for camouflage painting” will be distributed in the near future. Delivery of equipment must not be delayed due to the lack of an improvised camouflage painting.

Special regulations
8. Fabrics and straps

a) Dyeing trials are still underway for canvas impregnated from flax, hemp, etc. Green (RAL 6003) should be used for canvas. Stocks can be used up. The application of camouflage spots to car tarpaulins and the like must be done either with HE paints according to TL 6360 B or camouflage pastes according to TL 6352.
b) Dust protection materials must be used in green (RAL 6003) or green and white (RAL 9002). The existing dark yellow substances must be used up.
c) For all other fabrics, the color specified in the respective TL is decisive.
d) Depending on the intended use or order, straps are natural or dyed (color according to the order).

Leather
Bare leather is used in its natural color.
Artificial leather with and without fabric must be used in green color (RAL 6003).
Any stocks that are still available in a dark yellow color are primarily to be used up in vehicles with closed bodies.

O. K. H., 24. 1. 45
-70 k 10/10 -- WaA/Wa Chef Ing 1/V.

Comments: #1. Dunkelgelb, RAL 7028 has now fallen from favor. It is no longer the basecoat to be used on all equipment. It has been replaced by Grün, RAL 6003.
#2. This order is a follow-up to an internal order issued to all the army supply departments in October 1944. I suspect a similar order must have been issued to the industry at about the same time. Since the industry was ordered to apply the camouflage before the Panzers left the factories, they will now be adding the camouflage colors Gelb and Braun to a Grün basecoat.
#4. Misconception time.....big time! The colors to be used are listed as Grün, Braun and Gelb, even though the correct names according to the RAL catalogue is Olivgrün, Rotbraun and Dunkelgelb. These colors all refer to the RAL Farbtonregister 840 R (colorchart). The word "Ausgabe 1944", which translates to "1944 edition" is printed between the color names and the color chart name. A coded color doesn't come in "editions", but printed color charts do. But the position of the printed words "Ausgabe 1944" has led to the myth that a new version of Dunkelgelb was created in 1944, without changing the RAL code. Keep in mind that Dunkelgelb had already fallen out of favor in October 1944, and that the items manufactured in Dunkelgelb within the Third Reich already sported a huge variety in hue and characteristics, as we have already proven. Just as the "Dunkelgelb nach Muster", the "Dunkelgelb ausgabe 1944" is an urban myth.
#5. Dunkelgelb can still be used on smaller items, for equipment used by the rear echelon army, and as a camouflage color. It is forbidden to use it on equipment carried by an individual. The tide has turned around. Dunkelgelb items are now obviously considered a danger to the person carrying them around, while they used to be regarded as camouflage.
#6. It is now prohibited to transport large pieces of equipment in Dunkelgelb color on open railway cars (without camouflage). The story goes that the WH lost several trainloads of brand spanking new panzers that was shipped to the western front after the Normandy invasion. The Dunkelgelb panzers stood out as high visibility targets for low flying allied fighter planes hunting for targets.
#7. A new set of instructions for camouflage painting will be published in the near future. No further information about this promised publication is known, but I would surely like to see it!  
#8. The undyed canvas has also fallen from favor, and it is again ordered to paint and dye it for camouflage purposes. Green (RAL 6003) is the preferred color.
Leather. At this stage of the war a lot of the equipment that was previously manufactured in leather now used Kunstleder or Preßstoff, an artificial leather. Preßstoff, also called "cardboard leather" is artificial leather made of laminated and impregnated paper fiber. It can be cut and stitched, and has much of the same qualities as leather when used as "static" material. It does not lend very well to stretching and bending though. The standard color of the Preßstoff was black, but with the introduction of Dunkelgelb in 1943 a lot of items were manufactured in Dunkelgelb color. This text has an "undefined" sentence; "Artificial leather with and without fabric must be used in green color (RAL 6003)." It is impossible to tell if this means that the equipment must be painted green before use, or if the new manufactured equipment is supposed to shift from yellow to green. No existing item is known to exist manufactured in green Preßstoff.


The regulation is dated 21. 1. 44. This is clearly wrong, and should read 21. 1. 45. It refers to an order dated October 1944, and it was published in Heeres-Verdordnungsblatt # 7, dated 12. February 1945.

Due to a combination of lack of raw materials, allied bombing and a late decision to change the base color from Dunkelgelb to Grün, very few factory-painted items in green color exists.


This Gleichstrom Erzorger 400 B radio generator was reportedly manufactured in 1945. Some of the parts were painted green during manufacture, since the instructions have all been glued directly to the green painted metal. The combination of green and Dunkelgelb parts also look very convincing, since already manufactured parts in stock would have been used as-is or repainted like the frame clearly has been.

The Panzerraketenbüchse 54/1 was fielded in the end of 1944, and was made by modifying Panzerraketenbüchse 54 taken from existing stocks. The process included the shortening of the long barrel and welding on some new parts. And a total re-paint! Panzerraketenbüchse 54/1 can be found both in Dunkelgelb and Grün.

 
The Panzerraketenbüchse 54/1 pictured in the manual D 1864/6 from 1.12.1944 has clearly been repainted in Grün.
 
Factory painted hardware towards the end
As stated, the last regulation from the OKH regarding paint and painting to the units at the frontline and the Ersatzheer was published on 12. February 1945, and was effective until the Third Reich crumbled into ruins in May 1945. But an earlier order had been issued in October "to all army supply departments" that must have contained some of the new "rules", since hulls for the Tiger II and some parts for the Panther manufactured by MNH appeared in Dunkelgrün in December 1944. Sadly, there is no known copy of the order from October 1944.
The order of 19 August 1944 that armored vehicles must be camouflage painted in the factories before they were handed over to the users is believed to exist, as it is referred to in several books, but I have not seen a copy myself. How this camouflage was to be painted is still unclear, as it obviously varied from one factory to the next, and again changed over time as well, but no documentation exists, to my knowledge. Experts on German Panzers are able to differentiate tanks by makers and timeframe just by looking at the paintwork.

Bonus material!
Paint and painting of steel helmets, mess tins and drinking cups

I have chosen to keep the two regulations concerning steel helmet paint & painting and the one concerning mess tins & drinking cups divided from the rest of the paint regulations. The steel helmets of the Wehrmacht did initially follow a strict paint-regime of their own. After the first “Whitewash order” was issued in November 1941 it appears that the regulation of helmet painting was left to the units’ discretion.

AHM 165/1940. Matt is what they want
165. Steel helmet painting.
The army's steel helmets have a matt gray paint finish. Varnishing or greasing the steel helmet is prohibited in order to preserve the dull, matt appearance. To ensure that suitable paints are used to refresh the color of the helmets, the units have to report their needs for steel helmet paint, for the replacement army through individual army clothing depots, for the troops of the field army through the prescribed supply channels. The supply of the army clothing depots with steel helmet color is arranged by the Wehrmacht procurement unit.
O.K.H. (BdE), 27. 1. 40
-- 64 k 10/11. 18 -- Abt Bkl (III b).
Comment: The value of the matt camouflage paint is stressed; to prevent the troops from applying a “parade finish” A special matt helmet-paint supplied through the supply system is the only paint allowed to be used to refurbish the helmets.
According to open sources, steel helmets were painted in Feldgrau Nr. 3 (RAL 6006), but this RAL code, or any other, is never mentioned in the A.H.M. regulations about helmet paint.

The signature has a different archival number and now reads Abt Bkl (III b). This is an abbreviation for Bekleidnungs Abteilung, a sub-office of the Amtsgruppe Ersatz- u. Heereswesen, Stab, which helmets would sort under.


The "whitewash regulation for equipment" from 18.11.1941 did not mention helmets at all, but they turn up in orders at lower levels!


7.) Camouflage paint for steel helmets.
See paragraph 16.
16.) Winter camouflage painting of motor vehicles.
The vehicles are to be painted white immediately. The painting medium used is chalk, mixed with water to form a paste.
Chalk is taken from the chalk deposits located in the Div. area.

AHM 428/1940. Sand-painting is fine, makeshift camouflage is forbidden
428. Stahlhelm painting.

-H. M. 1940 page 67 no. 165-
For reasons of camouflage, the army steel helmets are given a matt slate-grey paint finish that is slightly worn on the outside. The need for steel helmet paint is to be requested by the units through the supply system. Instructions for use will be included with each delivery. The black, white and red coat of arms on the steel helmet for the field army and the replacement army will be discontinued for the duration of the war. Until the paint for the roughened appearance is delivered, the troops have to camouflage the steel helmet with makeshift means (painting with earth, clay, etc.). Camouflage rags, camouflage netting, camouflage tapes or rings are out of the question for camouflage purposes.
O. K. H. (BdE), 21. 3. 40
-- 64k 10/11. 18 -- Abt Bkl (IIIb).
Comment: The second regulation concerning helmet painting was published 2 months later. It starts with a reference to the first regulation. It then repeats what the first set of regulations said about only matt paint ordered through the system being allowed to use for helmet-painting. Then it goes on to inform the reader that the helmet paint will actually be delivered with a set of instructions for use. It then states that the coat of arms / tricolore on the helmet will be discontinued for the duration of the war. It doesn’t specify if this is a case of “the helmet will no longer be delivered with”, or if it is an order to the units to remove it altogether.
The helmet color is now given as matt Schiefergrau. Open sources identify this as Schiefergrau RAL 7015, but again, no RAL code is given in the regulation.
The units are allowed to improvise their “roughened” helmet paint until the proper paint can be distributed. The units are not allowed to camouflage their helmets with rags, nets etc.



January 1944. New recruits for Großdeutschland are kitted out with helmets. The rough paintwork of the factory new (or refurbished) helmets can clearly be seen.


A M40 helmet with a Tarnanstrich according to the order from 18.02.1943. A Dunkelgelb base, spray painted with olivgrün and rotbraun. This was not done according to the regulations above, but must have been an accepted standard by the last years of the war.


435. Color for the painting of
Mess tin and drinking cups.

Cooking utensils and drinking cups made of light metal are given an olive-colored paint finish. In order to ensure that suitable paints are used for this purpose, the troops must report their need to renew the paint finish using the requesting method prescribed for them. The Wehrmacht procurement office arranges for the delivery of the required paint to the army supply depots. Sealed color samples are issued to the army supply depots, the Wehrmacht procurement office and the AHA/Bkl.

 O. K. H. (BdE), 23. 4. 41
-- 64 k 10/11. 14 -- AHA/Bkl (111 b).
Both the mess tin and the metal drinking cups for the canteen saw extensive wear to the paintwork when used in the field, so no wonder they needed a plan for the paint renewal.


Tactical markings, unit markings and tactical numbers
As discussed earlier, the units could procure paint in order to paint signs and tactical markings on vehicles. This chapter is by no means meant to be a complete handbook, but I have chosen to include it as it contains some interesting original documents!
The tactical markings were regulated by orders, handbooks and manuals, and the intention was to have a standardized system that would enable identification of each vehicle within a unit.


This page is from "German military symbols" 1. April 1944, Washington, and show some of the symbols used both on maps and vehicles.

Unit markings, normally painted on the opposite fender/side, was added to identify which unit the vehicle belonged to. This system was very regulated, although the symbols identifying each unit appears to have been picked at random! That was seldom the case though, as there is a story behind every single unit marking. Some examples:
35. Infanterie Division had a fish as their unit symbol; their commander in 1940-41 was General Walther Fischer von Weikersthal.
134. Infanterie Division had a circled "C" as their unit symbol. Their commander in 1940-41 was General Conrad von Cochenhausen.


The document above was issued by the Armee Oberkommando 9, and is an identification chart of the approved unit symbols for the Infantry Divisions in the 9th army.


The document above was issued by 35. Infanterie Division to its sub units, and is a template for their unit marking.


The document above was initially issued by the Armee Oberkommando 9 as a positioning template. It was then copied and issued to the sub units of the 35. Infanterie Division.

Fighting vehicles would in addition carry tactical numbers on their sides and rear. The thought behind this was to enable commanders in the field better control over own forces. The size of the numbers would enable him to tell his vehicles apart at 800 meters (with a binocular).

This document dated 24th April 1944 was issued by the Generalinspekteur der Panzertruppen to Panzergrenadier regiments and other units. It is a complete instruction manual on how to paint tactical numbers on the light and medium armored halftrack personnel carrier 250 and 251. It also covers how to paint tactical numbers on the different variations of tank destroyers.

 
This document dated 13. September 1944 was issued from Panzer Brigade 110, Feldhernhalle, as they are about to receive their promised armored halftrack personnel carriers. It is clearly based on the document above, but only contains what is necessary for this unit, including the markings on the Sturmgeschütz 40 and the leichte Panzerjäger 40.


Summing it all up!

The broad lines for patterns over time:
Time frame Original name Translation
1 1920 - primo 1937 Buntfarbenanstrich Multi-colored camouflage
2 1937 - medio 1940 Dunkelgrau und Dunkelbraun Tarnanstrich Dark grey and dark brown camouflage
3 1940 - primo 1943 Dunkelgrau Anstrich Dark grey, one color only
4 1943 - ultimo 1944 Dunkelgelb, mit olivgrün und rotbraun Tarnanstrich Dark yellow, with olivegreen and redbrown camouflage
5 1945 -   Grün, mit Dunkelgelb und rotbraun Tarnanstrich Green, with dark yellow and redbrown camouflage

The use of names, color codes and color charts in the Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen and the Heeres Verordnungs Blatt over time displayed in a matrix:
Date Color name Color code Color chart
26-6-1934 Feldgrau n/a n/a
26-6-1934 Erdgelb n/a n/a
26-6-1934 Grün n/a n/a
26-6-1934 Braun n/a n/a
29-05-1936 Grün n/a n/a
29-05-1936 Braun n/a n/a
29-05-1936 Helloliv n/a n/a
12-07-1937 Dunkelgrau n/a n/a
12-07-1937 Dunkelbraun n/a n/a
28-01-1938 Dunkelgrau 29 RAL 840 B2
28-01-1938 Dunkelbraun 18g RAL 840 B2
02-11-1938 Dunkelgrau 46 RAL 840 B2
02-11-1938 Dunkelbraun 45 RAL 840 B2
17-01-1939 Dunkelgrau 46 RAL 840 B2
17-01-1939 Dunkelbraun 45 RAL 840 B2
22-06-1939 Feldgrau n/a n/a
12-06-1940 Dunkelgrau n/a n/a
17-03-1941 Gelbbraun 8000 RAL 840R
17-03-1941 Graugrün 7008 RAL 840R
25-03-1942 Braun 8020 n/a
25-03-1942 Grau 7027 n/a
18-02-1943 Dunkelgelb n/a n/a
18-02-1943 Olivgrün n/a Farbtonkarte des RLM
18-02-1943 Rotbraun 8017 RAL 840R
03-04-1943 Dunkelgelb 7028 RAL 840R
03-04-1943 Olivgrün 6003 RAL 840R
11-10-1943 Weiß 9002 n/a
24-01-1945 Grün 6003 RAL 840R Ausgabe 1944
24-01-1945 Braun 8017 RAL 840R Ausgabe 1944
24-01-1945 Gelb 7028 RAL 840R Ausgabe 1944
24-01-1945 Weiß 9002 RAL 840R Ausgabe 1944

Dunkelgrau is never mentioned with a code after the change from the color chart RAL 840 B2 to the new 4-digit system RAL 840R. According to open sources RAL 46 Dunkelgrau became RAL 7021 Schwartzgrau (black-grey). Dunkelbraun RAL 18g (No mentioning of RAL 45) became RAL 8014 Sepiabraun.
The current name for RAL 8017 is Schokoladenbraun, but it remained as "Rotbraun" until the end of the war.
Dunkelgelb was not codified in the RAL system when launched 18-02-1943 and only "existed" as a color sample in the beginning. It was codified and published as RAL 7028 44 days later. A "Ausgabe 1944" never existed. Dunkelgelb was RAL 7028 from start to end.


A study of repainted Dunkelgrau Patronenkasten. From left to right. Issued in Buntfarbenanstrich, but repainted in Dunkelgrau by the users. Issued in Dunkelgrau / Dunkelbraun repainted in Dunkelgrau by the users. Issued in Dunkelgrau and repainted in the 1943 camouflage pattern.

Things to consider when trying to understand paint & painting
There is a difference between factory applied paint and unit applied paint. The manufacturers and their production would be controlled by the contracts they had with the procurement office of the AHA. A contract would probably not be altered by the regulations published in the AHM. So, equipment ordered on a contract for delivery over several years would be manufactured according to the contract, which could mean that it would eventually be delivered in the "wrong" colors some years later. The units got their paint-regulations through the AHM. Sometimes they adhered to them, sometimes they clearly ignored them.
There is no set standard today for what a 75+ year old item will look like in original color.

A final word on Dunkelgelb and some things that never were...
Especially dark yellow items can look very different from each other, although there was only one Dunkelgelb in 1943-1945! Several odd theories exist about the Dunkelgelb color, trying to explain the differences in paint hues on surviving items. Here are some of them:

-"The text "Dunkelgelb nach Muster" ("dark yellow according to a sample"; the sample could be obtained from an office in Berlin) describes a different color than the coded version published as Dunkelgelb RAL 7028 only 44 days later". No way. The order dated 3rd of April 1943 clearly states that the "dark yellow color according to a sample" has been approved and codified into the RAL color coding system under the designation "Dunkelgelb RAL 7028".

-Two different versions of Dunkelgelb existed, but had the same RAL code. The theory names them as "Dunkelgelb" and "Dunkelgelb neue Ausführung" or "Dunkelgelb ausgabe 1944", since the words "ausgabe 1944" was used in HVB 52/45. BS. "Ausgabe 1944" refers to the color chart and not the paint-color.

-The Dunkelgelb RAL 7028 was discontinued in 1943, so the RAL code was "available" and was reused for a new Dunkelgelb in 1944. Really? A codified color was coded for eternity, if a "version" of a color needed tweaking it would be classified into the system with a new number, especially to avoid mixing and confusion. The amount of unused RAL codes was "infinite".

-There are also odd theories about the dark yellow paint being made up prewar in huge quantities for farming equipment (but the color was never codified) and then the paint turned up in 1943 and "someone thought it was a good idea to use the paint for military equipment". Nope. See the above announcements concerning shelf live for paints.

None of these theories have been backed up with proofs or documentation. The RAL coding system is a coding system, and although paint adhering to the color code at the time of manufacture was correct, it would become something else over time. See the section "Color" at the beginning of the article.


A Laufschützer 43/1 and a Lauftbehalter 34 manufactured in 1943 (lower) and 1944 (upper). The Dunkelgelb is quite different between the two items.


"Time is a merciless mistress"
Dunkelgelb RAL 7028 only ever existed in one variation, and that was according to the RAL coding system "RAL 840 R". The items painted in RAL 7028 in the period February 1943 to May 1945 will all look slightly different due to the circumstances described in this article.


Denmark, autumn 1945. The sad remains of a Panzer III.


 
Note how the Dunkelgelb paint appears different (light/dark, glossiness etc.) on the different parts, depending on the surface it was applied to.

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