I have held many examples of the different pioneer tools both well worn and used as well as some that had never been issued into service. German pioneer tools were not painted the base color of the vehicle, that was an allied practice. The tools were not installed on the vehicle until they reached the training area where the crews received them along with the vehicles. Vehicles not only received their base coat without tools installed but many received camo colors with the tools removed as well. It depended on the location and the amount of time the crews had to apply paint. Many photos as well as surviving examples also show tools with splotches of Red Brown and or Olive green camo paint on them as well. The pioneer tools which were made at other locations from the vehicles received a powder coating on all metal surfaces which was black in color and the handles were simply semi matte varnished wood. The wood shade varried a bit, from a medium sandy color to a medium brown color depending on the wood available. Yes, just like many of the museum examples. You are correct on the cable cutters though. They had the same black powder coating and had steel handles that had a red brown bakelite sleeve for insulation.

Paint doesn't stick to bakelite.

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Hmmm...interesting in that the first pic above of the wire cutters, originally from Frenchy, has remains of Dunkelgelb on the metal parts. So...painted, or unpainted? That is the question!

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Dunkelgelb was much lighter. That color looks bright or taxi cub yellow.
My sources indicate that cutter handles were red brown or grey. For red brown I use vallejo shadow brown.
I am interesting to read others input about degree to which wooden handles were varnished.
The only instances I know of pioneer tools being painted were czech beutepanzers...

Today I learnt something new: paint doesn't stick to bakelite.

Thanks all for your replies,
Angel

the wood is shinny from the oil from peoples hands, really

It is just a hobby mate, and I don't care whether you accept what I have to say or not In fact please don't. Research the topic for yourself and then draw your own conclusions.... I have.