Collector's Guide to the WaffenSS Author:Robin Lumsden In theory a bodyguard unit of the Nazi Party, the Waffen-SS eventually grew into an unofficial "fourth branch" of the Wehrmacht, with its own army of 40 divisions. Although its structure and battlefield role were similar to Napoleon's Imperial Guard, it was never able to fully distance itself from the more sinister operations of the SS empire. ... more » Waffen-SS uniforms, insignia and equipment have become among the most sought-after among collectors, and consequently the most often faked. Readers of Lumsden's other books will find the level of detail they have come to expect. This edition features front and back color covers, a text that is concise but packed with information, a large number of photos and sketches, pieces of equipment and insignia meticulously described, and definitive tables of organization and rank. Every division of the Waffen-SS is briefly described, including those made up of foreign volunteers, along with illustrations covering ranks, uniforms, equipment, divisional and national insignia and the history of the evolution of the Black Corps from a handful of bodyguards to an army in its own right.« less