In Germany you need a certified reason for owning a gun (hunting license or participation in shooting competitions), a gun safety test, a certified gun safe and all firearms need to be registered.
Carrying a gun in public for self defense is generally not allowed.
I’d say it’s a good amount of regulation. It doesn’t keep people from shooting as a hobby, I was able to fulfill all requirements even as a student, but it weeds out the extreme loners, wannabe cowboys and people looking to buy a gun spontaneously.