For civillian American goverment service (non military) folks working on a military base is Jagdschein and gun ownership a possibility? It looks like it is, but I want to make sure before I start applying for jobs thinking I am going to get to hunt.

I have four years left in the military, and I am going to apply for US Gov jobs in Europe.

Seth,

I take it your question relates to Germany??

Gerry - and possibly Dom - have knowledge about the programs for US Service members in Germany. The requirements in this program are considerably lower than for German citizens/residents. But,,, I don't know if that program covers civilian staff working for the US Government?

Otherwise, if you take up residence in Germany, the German standard programs for obtaining a hunting permit will be open to you. Passing these tests is not trivial, but certainly not undoable either - hey, I managed to sneak through, so it can't be all THAT difficult... It would be easier if you have a working knowledge of written and spoken German. But one quickly picks up the lingo necessary for a limited subject such as hunting.

It normally takes about 6-8 months to take the German course and pass the tests. There are also places that offer the courses and test in 2-3-4 weeks - I have heard this is supposed to quite intensive, though.

In spite of the German bureaucracy being quite involved and the rules for gun ownership somewhat daunting, the system actually works in terms of getting things done (e.g. obtaining permits etc). In this respect, the German bureaucracy is comparatively easy to work with - compared to that of other countries, say. (I'll refrain from singling out other countries, as this is an international forum, and I don't want to step on anybody's toes. Just consider some of the countries where you have been stationed in Europe until now, for instance).

I don't know if it would be possible to keep your firearms on base before you obtained your own gun permits? Gerry and Dom may be able to help here as well.

Good luck

- mike

Mike,

Thanks, yes Italian gun law sucked! I had a rifle permit in Spain but not a hunting liscense. I did manage to "assist" a Spanish gamekeeper on a few hogs. But only because his finger was sore and couldn't shoot the rifle.

Thanks,

Seth

Seth, not a problem in Germany but you have to take some steps:

- Do the move without weapons (unless of course they are registered on a WBK, but for that you'd already have a Jagdschein).

- Take the first Hunting Course offered by the closest American Rod & Gun Club. Most will be offered either in Spring or Fall or sometimes both.

- They run about 8 weeks. After completion, you'll be able to get insurance and a Jagdschein. Once you have that, you can walk in any store and purchase a weapon or weapons - with the understanding that you'll get it registered on a WBK w/i 14 days (same rule applies to all). Submit the WBK Packet, pay the tab, and receive your WBK.

- Or, you submit the paperwork for WBK with info on weapons you have located somewhere else, get the WBK back, and then just go get them and bring them in. The key is they must already be registered. If you just try and bring them in w/o WBK they will most likely be confiscated until you get on WBK.

- I'd suggest if you plan on hunting in neighboring countries get EU WBK same time.

Bottom Line - it can be done, just gotta go through the tape.

Now if you do not have the connection to get Jagdschein with RGC, you'll have to go the German route, so you'll have to learn German the route is longer but end result the same, Waidmannsheil, Dom.

That was a good post, Dom. Concise and to the point - just what Seth needed!

- mike

Sounds great I appreciate all the help.

Hopefully in a few years the hunters horn will play in Central Europe for me on a full time basis.

52 more months on active duty. It is like Christmas and my Birthday rolled into one.