What is the process of getting my handgun to Vilseck, Germany?

Check with the post Provost Marshal for current information.

SPC (Join to see) Germany has some of the strictest laws when it comes to handguns in country, and as part of the SOFA, the USAE has policies in place for that. Beyond what CW5 Jack Cardwell, CPL Dave Hoover, and SFC Michael D. have said, make sure you get a hold of your sponsor at your unit. They can contact the PMO at Vilseck to get the updated information for you, if need be. They can also tell you a lot about the area you are about to arrive in.

You can also review the USAE webpage for their publications. This is what I found directly from them: https://media.defense.gov/2018/Dec/11/ [login to see] /-1/-1/0/AER190-6.PDF.

As CW5 Jack Cardwell said, check with the Provost Marshall, but while you're doing this, plan on leaving it with family. When I PCS'd to Italy, I left mine stateside. Went to Vilseck to Small Arms School, nice Post. SPC (Join to see)

The process may have changed since I've been there but I had mine in a locked box in my suitcase and the ammo in a seperate locked box in another suitcase. On the way back I actually forgot and had them in the same bag and they came on the plane and got me and had me seperate the two and then I was allowed to get back on the plane. I would definitely check with the TSA and also find out what your command policy is on the weapon. They may want it in the arms room.

SPC (Join to see) have you been to a levy brief yet?

Talk to the Customs people from your MP's to get the low down.

From the current AER Reg 190-6, located at https://media.defense.gov/2018/Dec/11/ [login to see] /-1/-1/0/AER190-6.PDF

8. IMPORTING PRIVATELY OWNED FIREARMS INTO GERMANY

a. According to the Personal Property Consignment Instruction Guide, published by the DOD Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, individuals cannot legally import POFs into Germany without meeting the requirements of the WaffG. The importation of POFs into Germany is authorized only if the individual importing the POF has obtained an importation permit (Verbringungserlaubnis) from German weapons authorities and a WBK with all POFs to be imported entered on it. Importing POFs into Germany without proper documentation is a violation of this publication and the WaffG. Furthermore, failure to comply with this publication may result in the German authorities confiscating the POFs at the port of entry and charging the individual importing the POFs with German weapons- or customs-related offenses. Prohibited POFs (listed under prohibited items in the glossary) may not be imported.

b. The legal importation of POFs into Germany at Government expense as part of household goods or unaccompanied baggage does not require AE Form 550-175A.

c. AE Form 550-175A is required (in addition to the German importation permit and the WBK) when importing POFs in unaccompanied baggage at personal expense or when hand-carrying a POF.

d. Firearms in Europe are required to have proofing and marking by a recognized and authorized proof-house of a country that is a member of the Permanent International Commission for Firearms Testing (C.I.P.). European firearms, including those purchased at an outdoor recreation (HFSS) facility or the Kaiserslautern Rod & Gun Club, should already meet this requirement. Firearms without a C.I.P. proof mark may normally not be imported, owned, sold, or purchased in Europe by private individuals.

e. German Federal authorities will report firearms violations committed by U.S. Forces personnel and Family members in Germany to the FBI and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). This could result in the individual losing the right to own a firearm in the United States.

You will have to leave it at home until you get to Germany and take the Sport Shooting or Hunting course. After completion of the class, you have to shoot at a club with an instructor 12 (maybe 18 actually) times to receive your license. At that point, you can import your firearm and ammo.

Over there provost mashal, ship in locked case. At least when I'm shipped home that's what I'm had to do. Hit taco cabana and whataburger for me lol