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Feldfu project - Gen 5

Published on 21. Dec. 2025
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Dear friends, we are pleased to announce a new decision for 2026. This year, the production of the fifth generation of feldfu radios will reopen. Our intention is to provide the market with a total of 100 working units and then change the production focus at least until 2030. The production of radios greatly limits our overall capacities and we cannot fully develop other areas. Since we delivered 60 units of various models in 2022-2025, we plan to produce the last 40 units in 2026 and then make a longer pause. 

 

 

We have long considered whether it is time to move into expensive nylon production, but customer expectations are forcing us to move and develop further. We are excited to see the prices of breakthrough technologies drop every year as the technology becomes more accessible. When we wanted to step into nylon MJF 3D printing in 2021, the production price was several times higher than the original radios. Although the use of our economy PETG cases (generations 1-4) so far proves that with careful handling, our radios can be used for many years, we decided to try adding a new dimension to our sales - a radio case adapted for outdoor use (Gen 5 nylon). This new radio case surpasses the previous version in terms of materials and construction, takes away manual work and, as a result, looks more aesthetic and is more durable. 

 

 

 

The biggest changes between Gen4 and Gen5 are complete material upgrades:

PETG  -> PA12 nylon

Plastic body and lids are now fully made of PA12 nylon. This increase durability to the original level. Also it slightly decrease the weight of box and speed up the completization.

Nylon -> Aluminium, steel

Back support belt rails and closures/hinges were made of durable nylon. Now we produce them in metal. This results in absolutely authentic durability and material authenticity.

Aluminium -> Stainless steel

Front panel screws were made of Aluminium, now we upgraded to stainless steel. Seemingly, just a small jump from one metal to another. However, we have switched to precise CNC machines that ensure the most beautiful results and indestructible screws.

 

 

Enjoy the view of very first Gen 5 Nylon prototype in our office:

Originally, in 1940 the packaging was cast from a multi-part Bakelite mold. To maintain this impression, the model contains an exact copy of the molding shape.

  

The new technology allows for perfect precision and the omission of surface treatment, which previously slowed down production the most.

 

Nylon is also better suited for stressed areas such as thin walls or hinges. Visible fine horizontal lines are the result of a precise laser passing through. These will disappear after dyeing.

 

Production is also accelerated by precise hole positioning. In previous generations, holes were measured and finished separately using templates.

 

We are happy that this technology has become more affordable in the short term of 4 years. Who knows where the prices and options will be when we consider the return of production after 2030.

 

More good news:

The fifth series is also our attempt to reflect on previous shortcomings with the front panel. The most prominent problem has always been associated with the power button. We have devoted a lot of time and effort to this topic. We have tested various hardware available on the market. Finally, we have altered electronics and updated the model of the front cover so that there is no physical contact with the button. This reduces the risk of damage, especially in difficult terrain but also when frequently switched on with front cover attached.

 

Market and product changes:

We always try to do things fully and properly. And that's why we started offering complete accessories. At first we offered hand microphones, then original headphones, soon cardboard speakers, throat microphones and also back support belt. All of these are pretty difficult to obtain in original or working condition and we are very proud to offer a truly complete and own solutions. Although, the time changes a lot of things.

Firstly, in last three years the availability of original headphones reduced drastically. Therefore, stable offer of Dfh.f is no longer possible and we will only offer occasional additions to orders. We still have a number of functional 1930-1950 civilian headphones in stock. They are tested and functional, very similar, often just with different markings. Ready for your Feldfu. It is still true that you can get original and functional Dfh.f radio headsets for a good price in local markets. However, for us, at current prices, double shipping, and occasional repairs, this is not a sustainable model. We encourage you to primarily search local markets for original Dfh.f, and if you do not have such opportunity, feel free to ask about our offer.

Secondly, we had a long-term issue with producing preordered throat microphones on time. Custom parts are very difficult to manufacture on a small scale. We are temporarily withdrawing the product from sale and will only be available as a part of Frontliner set. We hope that the situation will be clarified during 2026 and in the meantime we are offering handheld microphones as a replacement at a discounted price. 

 

Feldfu usage:

From our perspective (as reenactors from KVH Feldgrau, authentically portraying German infantry for 14 years), the availability of Feldfu radios within the company and squads contributed greatly to the period experience. Finally having the opportunity to authentically start a wireless transmission at an event is always a surprise for everyone involved. Of course, you need to find the right use and limits, but you will better understand the realities of the time, even in the context of tired melders or damaged telephone wires. Having a historical tool at your disposal broadens the spectrum of how the military of the time operated.

Probably many of our radios were bought with intent to static display or as an addition to a collection. However, it would be excellent if individual pieces could meet at larger international events and be connected to a larger communication network.

We are very happy that photos of the most immersive reenactment events sometimes show our radios. In our area, groups are even emerging whose activities are based on fulfilling communication tasks, for which our Feldfus are used. Photo courtesy of Funktrupp Donau and KVH Feldgrau.

 

  

Working communication looks great at public events, additionally serves well for organizing groups. Even the organizers' eavesdropping can be a cheerful revival of a combat demonstration.

  

One of the popular but economy versions of usage is to hide cheap modern walkie-talkie inside the armoured vehicle and use historically acurate repro outside in front of the audience. Such combination set is in our offer too.

 

Feldfu radios make a great display after the battle in a public showcase. They always revive the debate and are a good topic for a new conversation with visitors. You can even let them try!

  

Feldfu as a crucial part of tactics during battle games? Call in backup or clarify the positions of the reconnaissance group. 

  

Divide group into funktrupps and play various games, search for partisans, navigate teams. With a little imagination, everything can be mapped into historical context. Great help for trainings, Living History, Reenactment, public displays. We offer a lot of authentic paperwork for recording messages, making notes, filling map forms. 

  

One of Feldfu advantages is that it has two sound outputs. You can have second silent listener that write conversation copies, or the commander receiving messages with you. We also offer authentic cardboard reproduction of Loudspeaker for Wehrmacht. The output is loud enough to be used in small rooms for bigger audience. Trainings, receiving messages etc. is good without headphones limited for one person. Compatibile output plugs.

 

List of updates among series:

2. Serie

  • Antenna connection discontinued, another display antenna used. Frequency clock dial update.
  • Surface processing method adjusted.

3. Serie

  • Power button angle switch. Some PETG connectors replaced with nylon material.

4. Serie

  • Battery NC28 adapter discontinued, battery moved to brain unit. Battery charger switched for USB. Capacity upgraded from 1800mAh to 3800mAh.
  • Upgraded riveting. Upgraded display antenna details. Back support belt rails made of nylon.

5. Serie

  • Body material upgraded to full nylon.
  • Back support belt rails, body hinges and accessory plugs upgraded to metal.
  • Battery capacity upgraded from 3800mAh to 6800mAh with replaceable slot.
  • Frontpanel power button hardware replace.
  • Extension cable fixing upgrade.

 

Continuing support:

In 2024-2025, we provided several upgrades GEN1->GEN4 models on request, as well as minor repairs to damaged parts. If you are interested in modifications and customizations, please feel free to contact us.

 

Products for 2026

Customers can still look forward to a wide range of radio equipment:

And also two economical sets with accessories included for two common types of use:

  • Feldfu Set Outpost
  • Feldfu Set Frontliner

 

Set Outpost

This set is better suited for static use, exhibitions, and for receiving field reports or issuing orders to patrols. The authentic replica of a cardboard loudspeaker ensures that you won’t miss incoming messages even when you are not wearing headphones at all times.

The loudspeaker is also useful during training sessions involving multiple personnel, where information needs to be marked on a map or codes written down for later joint evaluation of the exercise.

The station is equipped with a handheld microphone for transmitting messages, acknowledging reports, and maintaining proper communication protocol.

A new feature in this set is an extensive collection of paper forms for logging messages, ongoing communications, and encryption. An additional modern radio included in the set can be used for link checks or for demonstrating radio operation at the station.

If necessary, Gen4 can also be effectively used for deployment in the field. When the situation calls for it, simply attach radio to the Y-straps, replace loudspeaker with your headset, and move out into action.

 

Set Frontliner

The Frontliner Set is designed for all scouts and bold teams who demand a higher level of durability and resilience from their equipment. Gen5 offers improved endurance when moving through dense forests, during impacts in the heat of action, and enhanced temperature resistance.

This set also includes a Rückenstütze belt to support the lower back, providing comfort during prolonged wear. In original collections, this component is rare and often missing — we are proud to offer it in the highest quality, produced in cooperation with local workshops.

For communication while on the move, a throat microphone is the preferred option, allowing hands to remain free for handling weapons or navigating difficult terrain.

To complete the set’s versatility across different scenarios, we also include a modern radio, which can be used by another command element or by someone operating discreetly out of public view.

 

How to order?

We are always happy to respond to your questions and requests. Feel free to contact us in advance so we can better adjust the 2026 production pipeline. This is especially suitable if you need more units or specific versions for your impression. Also we count with split payments as this is very preferred. FB messanger Verlag Kopf, or email is suitable way for making order too.

We will continue to offer Gen4 together witn Gen5 radios. The exact numbers of ratio gen4/gen5 will be known after March 2026 when preorders are finished.

Since last few months we have option to use FedEx shipping and this opens a new door for reliable and in some cases cheaper shipping of bigger packages. We are looking forward to use this option mostly for delivery radios to US.

We still insist on avoiding extra bank fees. The production costs for this project are so high that when you add the devastating percentage fees for payments received, the profit is reduced to a level where it is more profitable for us not to sell the goods. You can order desired product from eshop, but please contact us before payment. Thanks in advance.

 

 

 Photo courtesy of Funktrupp Donau. 

 




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