This section of the website provides a view of the different methods in which the
badges and awards are secured to the
uniform. The study
also includes an analysis of how the pins of the badges are attached on one end to the
body of the badge and secured at the other end via the use of a catch. It is important
to note that the samples shown here do not cover every possibility available.
Another area covered in this page are the different construction techniques applied to
military and civilian items of the Third Reich.
This information can assist in the detection of reproductions.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality
military antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
PHOTOS OF PINS
PIN TYPE
DESCRIPTION OF THE PIN
Thin
The pin is of needle type. Same width for the entire length. The body
is rounded.
Coke bottle
The pin ondulates in shape. Its width changes as it approaches the center and is
reduced as it moves away. Similar to the shape of a Coke bottle.
Thick
The width of the pin remains constant through the entire length. The pin is
wider than the needle type.
PHOTOS OF HINGES
HINGE TYPE
DESCRIPTION OF THE HINGE
Block
The hinge is attached to a rectangular piece of metal which is then secured to the
main body. This broad base plate provides better bonding.
integrated
The hinge assembly was casted with the body and form a single structure.
"S" Type
The hinge forms a loop that permits the pin to wrap around it in the shape of
the letter "S".
Tall
The hinge structure is attached directly to the body. It is noticeably taller than
other hinges.
PHOTOS OF CATCHES
CATCH TYPE
DESCRIPTION OF THE CATCH
Top catch
This is an additional catch placed at the top of the badge. Unlike
the other catches, this one is not intended to hold a pin bur rather
to secure to the uniform so the badge does not move laterally.
Thin
The body of the catch is of wire type. It is very thin. The badge
has an indentation where the catch is spot soldered.
Thick
The body of the catch is wider than other examples. The catch is spot
soldered to the badge.
integrated
The catch has been casted together with the body. They are formed
as one piece.
PHOTOS OF PRONGS
EAGLE PRONG TYPE
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRONG
Thick prong
The prong is of square type. The width is fairly thick. It is spot
soldered to the back of the eagle. It is a little harder to bend than the
thin type.
Thin prong
The prong is of wire type. It is spot soldered to the back of the
eagle. It is easy to bend.
CONSTRUCTION PHOTOS
TYPE
DESCRIPTION OF TECHNIQUE
None available
Die-struck
The badge was produced by heating a sheet of the material to soften it,
then punching it out. This produces a cleaner version of the badge.
None available
Die-cast
This technique requires a mold where the molten material is injected under
pressure. The badge does not come out as clean. Casting marks are then
removed by hand.
