weapons used by the armed (Waffen) SS
During the formation of the Waffen SS they were perceived as "Asphalt soldiers" . As such they were initially armed with obsolete weaponry.
During the initial campaigns in Poland and France the Waffen SS had to make use of captured weapons.
It was not until later in the war, once proven as steadfast combatants, did the Waffen SS begin to be armed as their Heer counterparts.
Later, when the Waffen SS earned their respect as elite fighting forces they were given preferential supplies and equipment and enabled to establish their own supply of weapons.
During the initial campaigns in Poland and France the Waffen SS had to make use of captured weapons.
It was not until later in the war, once proven as steadfast combatants, did the Waffen SS begin to be armed as their Heer counterparts.
Later, when the Waffen SS earned their respect as elite fighting forces they were given preferential supplies and equipment and enabled to establish their own supply of weapons.