Shooting ranges in Switzerland

Shooting ranges in Switzerland are unique in Europe, in keeping with the liberal gun laws and strong shooting traditions that exist in Switzerland.

The sale of ammunition — including Gw Pat.90 rounds for army-issue assault rifles — is subsidized by the Swiss government and made available at the many shooting ranges patronized by both private citizens and members of the militia. There is a regulatory requirement that ammunition sold at ranges must be used there. Indeed, while the sale of all ammunition is registered at the dealer if purchased at a private store, ammunition purchased at a shooting range is not.

To carry firearms in public or outdoors (and for an individual who is a member of the Auszug or the militia carrying a firearm other than his Army-issue personal weapons off-duty), a person must have a Waffentragschein (weapon carrying permit), which in most cases is issued only to private citizens working in occupations such as security.

See also