Shooting ranges in Switzerland
Shooting ranges in Switzerland are unique in Europe, in keeping with the strong shooting traditions and liberal gun laws that exist in Switzerland.
The sale of ammunition — limited to Swiss ordonnance calibers, but 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.
No permit is needed for an individual to transport a unloaded firearm to or from a shooting range, to or from an arms dealer, to or from an armory or to or from a private weapon purchase with a purchase permit (Waffenerwerbsschein).[1] To carry firearms in public or outdoors, a person must have a Waffentragschein[2] (weapon carrying permit), which in most cases is issued only to private citizens working in occupations such as security.