Heer Schützenschnur

[Bosnoljub]

Could anyone clarify to me early-war information about the Schützenschnur sharpshooting award? (specifically for the Heer)
As an example, qualifications, grades, etc.

[von thoma]

From book 'German Army Uniforms and Insignia' 1933-1945, by Brian Leigh Davis.
A very complete old book.

* Click to enlarge

Marksmanship lanyards for army were originally introduced by an order 29th June 1936
and were to be worn by all qualifying ranks below that of officer.
They could be worn with the Parade, Reporting, Walking-out and Guard uniform but not on the Greatcoat.

[Bosnoljub]

Thanks for explaining this to me!

[Hans1906]

Bosnoljub,

I have the Davis book in the german translation "Uniformen und Abzeichen des deutschen Heeres 1933 - 1945".
One of my very first books on this topic, I bought the book in the early 1970s, very recommended !

Link: https://www.zvab.com/buch-suchen/titel/ ... abzeichen/

Source of attached photo: ZVAB


Hans1906

[NavyCdo412]

sorry one question: but specifically what a soldier did to have it? He had to shoot? or what?

[Hans1906]

NavyCdo412,

both the german and english Wikipedia articles are very informative about the german "Schützenschnur":

German: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schützenschnur
English: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Ar ... rksmanship

(So far, probably the best source online, but I am very happy to be taught...)


Hans1906

[Bosnoljub]

sorry one question: but specifically what a soldier did to have it? He had to shoot? or what?

Hi Navy, seeing as Hans's answer is relatively inadequate (no offense), I think I can explain it to you.

The Schützenschnur award is for marksmanship. Easy.
If you don't really understand what I'm trying to say, I'm trying to say that it's pretty obvious if you look into it even on just the surface level. It was awarded for proficiency in not missing every single shot. It wasn't to sniper levels or proficiency, however, it just signified that you had precision while shooting.