- We are always looking for potential new members.
If you want to join our group.....

First, you will have to contact us. My e-mail is provided in 'Contact' section or simply click here. The unit commander can provide valuable information too click here.

What's next?
We are encouraging all potential members to visit the re-enactment site and meet with us. We do not want anyone to invest money and then be disappointed that our group is not what they expected. Visiting the site and meeting with us will give potential members an opportunity to see what we are about. Our reenacting site is open from Friday morning till afternoon when 'combat scenarios' begin and all non-members are not allowed on the site after scenario starts. There is also a chance to meet with us on Saturday morning. If you think that you would like to 'give it a shot' and try to reenact at least once before you get seriously involved contact us.

Once you decide the Austro-Hungarian impression is something that you would like to do your next step will be acquiring a uniform. The basic uniform consists of:

Tunic (Model 1916 with fall down collar. Karbluse is reserved for officers only)
Greatcoat (Model 1916)
Pants (Model 1908 in feldgrau, or M.1916 britches)
Cap (with imperial cocade, preferably late war with Karl cipher)
Shirt (collarless shirt made of white linen)
Low boots with hobnailed soles
Leg wraps

Once you acquire your uniform you will have to start acquiring your basic gear through our approved vendords. We are stressing quality of the gear over the price...cheap is not always better!

What if I don't have any gear or I can't find something?

We can loan you some gear for your first event, however, with our help we expect you to have a complete impression within 4 events.

What is "full" gear?

1. Belt - universal M.1915 belt with roller buckle preferred
2. Ammo pouches M.1908 (2)
3. Bayonet for M.1895 rifle with frog
4. Canteen with or without cup
5. Bread bag
6. Shovel with carrier (pointed shovel)
7. Gas mask (German or Austrian)
8. Rucksack
9. Mess kit and utensils
10. Austrian M17 Helmet (German M16 is acceptable but Austrian model is preferred)
11. Austrian or German zeltbahn
12. M.1895 Rifle with sling (No carbines)

As you get more seasoned your impression will expand but that's a topic for a small book. For more information on gear check our "Equipment' section.

How much will I have to spend?

Well it all depends on how serious you want to be. The "basic" cost will be around $1000-$1500. As you get more involved in building a correct impression you might go well over that amount. But since building an impression takes time your expenses can be spread out and therefore easier to bear.

IMPORTANT PLEASE READ:

Our unit is part of Great War Association . You must be registered GWA member in order to participate in the events held on GWA property in Newville, PA.  We are also collecting separate one time sign up fee and annual units dues.

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