Capture the tense atmosphere of the early Cold War with this 1/35 scale 3D printed figure set. This pair depicts West German Bundeswehr infantrymen on the advance, perfectly representing the transitional era of the 1960s where World War II experiences met modern NATO standards.

• Dynamic Patrol Poses: The set features two soldiers advancing forward. One figure is sculpted walking with his G3 rifle slung over his shoulder, gripping the sling in a natural march discipline. The other stands ready, holding his G3 across his waist, scanning the horizon.

• The "Filzlaus" Uniform: These figures are dressed in the Kampfanzug, grau (Battle Dress, Grey), affectionately and infamously known as the "Filzlaus" (Felt Louse). The sculpt captures the heavy, woolen texture of this early uniform, distinct from the later Moleskin fatigues.

• Mixed Headgear: To add variety and historical character, one soldier wears the standard M1A1 steel helmet (a modified US M1), while the other wears the "Schiffchen" (side cap), a common sight during training or lower-threat patrols.

• Cold War Firepower: Both men are armed with the Heckler & Koch G3 Battle Rifle, the heavy-hitting 7.62mm standard issue weapon of the Bundeswehr.

• Detailed Webbing: The figures feature the early-pattern leather and canvas webbing (Koppeltragegestell), complete with G3 ammunition pouches and the bread bag/canteen assembly on the hip.

The West German Bundeswehr in the 1960s

Established in 1955, by the 1960s the Bundeswehr had evolved into the backbone of NATO's conventional defense in Central Europe.

• Forward Defense: Situated directly on the "Iron Curtain," the Bundeswehr was tasked with the Vorneverteidigung (Forward Defense)—holding the line against a potential Warsaw Pact invasion until Allied reinforcements could arrive.

• Rapid Expansion: The 1960s saw the Bundeswehr grow into a massive conscript force, integrating hundreds of thousands of young Germans into a democratic army ("Citizens in Uniform") while grappling with the legacy of the past.

• NATO Integration: This decade marked the full integration of German forces into NATO command structures, moving away from US-donated equipment toward domestic production and standardization.

The 1960s Infantryman and His Gear

The image of the 1960s German soldier is defined by the unique mix of traditional German military aesthetics and American influence.

• The "Filzlaus" (Felt Louse): The Kampfanzug 59 was made of a heavy wool-cotton blend. While durable and warm in the German winter, it was notoriously itchy and heavy when wet, earning it its lice-themed nickname. It featured large cargo pockets and reinforced knees.

• The G3 Rifle: Replacing the FN FAL (G1), the G3 became the symbol of West German military power. Robust, reliable, and firing the powerful 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge, it was designed to engage targets at long ranges across the plains of Germany.

• The M1 "Steelpot": The Bundeswehr used the M1A1, a locally produced version of the American M1 helmet. It retained the classic silhouette but featured a different liner system. It was the standard head protection until the introduction of Kevlar helmets decades later.

• Footwear: Soldiers wore the Schnürschuhe (lace-up boots), often combined with gaiters in the early years, though by the 60s, high-leg combat boots were becoming standard issue.