How difficult is it to earn a Schützenschnur?

2017-10-25T11:30:36-04:00

I was given an opportunity to shoot with the Germans within the next few weeks. I'm excited, only problem is that I only consider myself an average shooter. I don't want to fail and take the opportunity away from another soldier. How difficult is it exactly?

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Oct 25 at 2017 11:33 AM

2017-10-25T11:33:51-04:00

All weapons are the same. Remember your basic shooting fundamentals: Relax, breath, aim, squeeze. Pay attention to briefings given about the weapons you are going to qualify on. You will do ok as long as you don't forget the basics. I had the chance while in Kosovo, only problem is I never received the paper work, so mine hangs on my wall. Still got the memories. Get your paper work done and filed with your S shop.

Response by SSG Diane R. made Oct 25 at 2017 11:42 AM

2017-10-25T11:42:37-04:00

I earned mine in the nineteen eighties while TDY with the Luftwaffe 4th Flak Regiment, at the time I belive there was a physical fitness component that required running and swimming, but I earned the military Sports badge at the same time, so these may have been combined events.

In 1984 we were firing the HK G-3 in 7.62 Nato, which some considered a beast of a rifle. I loved it! Lol I also qualified with the P-1 (P 38).

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Oct 25 at 2017 12:15 PM

2017-10-25T12:15:48-04:00

Don’t pass up the opportunity. You will regret it later. Just be thankful that you have this opportunity and make the most of it.

Remember basic shooting skills, trigger control (slow and steady) and sight picture.

You should do fine.

Response by SGT Morrison (Mike) Hogwood made Oct 25 at 2017 12:35 PM

2017-10-25T12:35:13-04:00

Just Do IT,It is a once in a lifetime chance to understand weapons and a chance you may never get again,I did this in the eighties while stationed in Germany,back then we had three shots to feel the weapon out and three rounds to zero and the big finally was ten rounds to qualify,you had hit ten of ten for expert,9 for sharpshooter and 8 for marksman,i do not remember the weapon other than it was 7.62 weapon.alot of kick,good luck

Response by SSG Diane R. made Oct 25 at 2017 12:39 PM

2017-10-25T12:39:30-04:00

one thing that I remember is the G3 had diopter sights, which offer a different sight picture than we are used too.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 25 at 2017 2:38 PM

2017-10-25T14:38:51-04:00

As stated don’t pass it up. It is a very cool and different process than our own. You will do well. Thanks for your service.

Response by SGT Tony Greene made Jan 13 at 2018 10:17 AM

2018-01-13T10:17:04-05:00

I earned mine in silver by shooting the UZI and the G43 machine gun really well. Getting awarded the silver was very nice and looked even shinier than the gold. They will more than likely be using different weapons than I did in 1992.

Response by TSgt Michael Jordan made May 21 at 2018 3:27 PM

2018-05-21T15:27:08-04:00

Go for it. I had the opportunity while stationed at Lindsey AS in Wiesbaden in 1981. We shot with a German reserve unit. Great experience. Even if I only did Bronze. LOVED the MG42.

Response by SSG Richard Anderson Jr made Nov 25 at 2018 6:45 PM

2018-11-25T18:45:51-05:00

I agree with what everyone else is saying, just remember the fundamentals. I earned mine back in the early 80's along with the German military proficiency badge ( kind of like our version of the EIB ). I'm wondering why they are not doing both together as you have to qualify with a weapon for the proficiency badge also. I agree with SGM Dawson, make sure you get your paperwork for it in your records. Good Luck !!