I was wondering what the chances would be of getting approval for handgun hunting in Namibia. I know the short answer is no. Most sources say that handguns aren't allowed into Namibia and that they aren't allowed for hunting even if they were allowed in.

I've had two glimmers of hope though. One safari company said if I wanted to use a handgun, though I couldn't bring one in, I could use one of theirs. In another publication (unfortunately I don't remember which one) there was reference to some government office one could contact for approval for special hunting requests which I presume might include firearm requests.

Being an optimist, I would like to try writing them a polite letter. If someone could provide a name/address to send it to, I would be most appreciative.

G,
I think that the quid pro quo for using a handgun is that you are disabled in such a way that you can not use a rifle. And then its a hassle. Kudude

You can try and contact mr. Ben Beytel of MET (Ministry of Environment and Tourism) on
+264 61 263131, or the permit office directly on +264 61 2842539. I might help if you have a letter from an outfitter with. Otherwise, send me your motivation letter (or the outfitter you have chosen), as I will be in the permit office on Monday, so I can give it to them directly. Also, do follow up, because they might "forget" about it or even approve it and not let you know.

Thank-you for the names/phone numbers.

I'm in the early planning stages for 2008 so haven't yet selected an outfitter. Once I know for sure where I'm going, I'll make use of the contact information to see if handgun hunting would be possible.