Compulsory shooting 2026
Compulsory national exercise: dates, procedure and minimum score
The compulsory federal exercise, often referred to as ‘Obli’ for short, is the official compulsory shooting programme for members of the Swiss Armed Forces who are required to undertake shooting duties. On this page you will find the Obli dates for 2026 at the Berg am Irchel shooting range, the 300m shooting programme, the minimum requirements, the documents you need to bring and practical advice to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What is compulsory shooting?
Compulsory shooting is an out-of-service obligation for members of the armed forces who are required to take part in shooting exercises. It serves to maintain shooting proficiency with one’s personal service weapon and to assess safe weapon handling under controlled conditions.
The event will take place at recognised shooting clubs. On site, shooting instructors and trained range staff will assist with the running of the event, data collection and safety matters. Anyone who is unsure should get in touch well in advance, rather than waiting until just before the shooting date.
Obli events in 2026 at the Schützenhaus Berg am Irchel
On these dates, you can complete the compulsory shooting test with the Irchelschützen Berg-Buch. The range is supervised, the procedure will be explained, and the range staff will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
| Day | date | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 29 April 2026 | Berg am Irchel | 18:00 - 20:00 |
| Wednesday | 10 June 2026 | Berg am Irchel | 18:30 - 20:30 |
| Friday | 28 August 2026 | Berg am Irchel | 18:30 - 20:30 |
How does the compulsory 300-metre shooting programme work?
The compulsory programme at 300 metres consists of single-shot and rapid-fire shooting at targets A5 and B4. Part of the procedure is shown on the monitor. If anything is unclear, the shooting staff can explain or announce the individual steps.
What matters is not rushing, but following a safe, calm and clear procedure: register, check your documents, handle the firearm in accordance with the instructions, complete the shooting programme and ensure your results are recorded correctly.
| Sequence of shots | Type of fire | Disc |
|---|---|---|
| Voluntary test shots | Single fire | A5 |
| 5 shots | Single fire | A5 |
| 5 shots | Single fire | B4 |
| 1 × 2 shots | Rapid fire | B4 |
| 1 × 3 shots | Rapid fire | B4 |
| 1 × 5 shots | Rapid fire | B4 |
How many points are required in the compulsory shooting test?
There are clear minimum requirements for the compulsory 300-metre shooting test. The shooting test is considered passed if at least 42 points have been achieved and no more than three zeros were fired.
If the minimum requirement is not met, the programme may be retaken in accordance with the official guidelines. Anyone who is unsure should not simply carry on, but should speak briefly to the relevant range officer before attempting the test again.
Minimum score
A minimum of 42 points is required for the compulsory assault rifle event.
Maximum zeros
A maximum of three zeros is permitted. If this limit is exceeded, the requirement is not considered to have been met.
What do I need to bring to the Obli?
Proper preparation prevents delays at the shooting range. The following documents and items of equipment should be provided in full.
- DIM Wallet with a reminder about compulsory shooting or reminder letters with adhesive labels, if available.
- Shooting booklet or military service record for accurate registration.
- Service record book, if available: continue to retain them, particularly for records relating to services provided before 1 June 2026.
- Official identity card for identification purposes.
- Personal service weapon transported with cleaning equipment and in accordance with the regulations.
- Personal hearing protection for the visit to the shooting range.
Missed the obligatory shooting - what now?
If the compulsory shooting is not completed by the official deadline, a call-up for a make-up shooting course will usually follow. This course is not to be regarded as a normal club training session and should not be planned as a substitute.
Anyone who fails to attend a scheduled session must expect further consequences. Therefore: Check the dates well in advance, prepare your documents, and do not wait until the very last possible day of shooting.
Procedure at the shooting range
Anyone visiting the shooting range for the first time, or after a long break, should allow plenty of time. A smooth experience doesn’t just begin with the first shot, but as soon as you arrive at the range.
1. Registration
Please have your documents ready, present them at registration and follow the instructions given by the stand staff.
2. Induction
Safety rules, station commands and the procedure will be explained. If you are unsure, please ask immediately.
3. Shooting programme
The programme will be run as scheduled. The monitor and the staff at the stand will help you find your way around.
4. Recording results
Once the programme has finished, the result is recorded correctly. Only then is the administrative part complete.
Explanatory video: from arrival to the final shot
The video shows the procedure at the shooting range and is particularly helpful for those taking the compulsory shooting test for the first time or after a long break.
Frequently asked questions about the compulsory national exercise
When does the 2026 bond have to be redeemed?
The compulsory shooting requirement must generally be fulfilled between 1 April and 31 August 2026 at an approved shooting club. The specific shooting dates can be checked via the SAT shooting date enquiry tool or directly with the club.
Where can I complete the compulsory shooting test?
The Obli can be shot at recognised shooting clubs. The Irchelschützen Berg-Buch will be holding several events at the Berg am Irchel shooting range in 2026.
What is the minimum score required?
In the 300m assault rifle event, a minimum of 42 points must be achieved. In addition, no more than three zero scores are permitted.
What happens if I fail the exam?
If the minimum requirement is not met, the official guidelines regarding retakes and the next steps will apply. The relevant ground staff will provide information on the next steps on site.
Can I come without preparing in advance?
It is possible, but it is not advisable. Anyone who has not taken the test for a long time should allow plenty of time, bring all the necessary documents with them, and ask for clarification early on if they are unsure.
Confident, calm and well-prepared for the Obli
The compulsory shooting exercise is not merely a formality. Those who turn up prepared, have their documents to hand and follow the range officers’ instructions ensure that the exercise runs safely and smoothly.
The Irchelschützen Berg-Buch support participants with their experience, well-organised shooting ranges and a modern 300-metre facility in the Zurich Weinland region.
Greater safety through regular training
Anyone who feels unsure during compulsory shooting will benefit from regular practice. At our club, shooters can improve their technique, become more familiar with handling their service weapon and, under the guidance of experienced members, gain greater confidence.
Deutsch 
Français 
Italiano 
English (UK)