National competitions in Swiss shooting
National exercises: Compulsory shooting and field shooting
National shooting exercises form part of non-duty shooting in Switzerland. These include the compulsory shooting programme for members of the armed forces subject to compulsory shooting, as well as the Swiss Federal Field Shooting Competition, which is a voluntary event steeped in tradition. On this page you will find the most important information on the procedure, participation, authorised weapons, preparation and official sources.
National shooting exercises in Switzerland
The National Shooting Exercises are an integral part of the Swiss shooting tradition. They combine military training, safe handling of firearms, club activities and competitive shooting with service weapons. The focus is on two events: the Compulsory shooting and that Federal field shooting.
The compulsory programme is aimed at members of the armed forces who are required to attend. Field shooting is voluntary and is open to a wider audience. Both events are organised by recognised shooting clubs and are conducted in accordance with clear safety guidelines.
What are national exercises?
Federal exercises comprise the compulsory federal programme and the Federal Field Shooting Competition. They take place as part of non-duty shooting activities and are carried out using service weapons and service ammunition.
Compulsory shooting
The compulsory shooting test is designed to demonstrate proficiency in handling one’s personal service weapon. It applies to members of the armed forces who are required to undergo the test and must be completed within the official time limits.
Federal field shooting
Field shooting is voluntary and is one of Switzerland’s best-known shooting events. It combines competitive shooting, tradition and accessibility.
Who can take part?
Participation depends on whether the event is compulsory shooting or field shooting. Anyone required to undertake compulsory shooting must complete the compulsory programme in accordance with the Army’s guidelines. Those not subject to compulsory shooting may participate, depending on the event, age, eligibility and supervision by a recognised shooting club.
- Members of the armed forces: complete the compulsory programme, provided they are required to attend.
- Club members: may take part in national exercises, depending on the occasion and the regulations.
- Non-members: can be supervised and introduced to the sport at recognised clubs.
- Members of the public who are interested: can obtain information from the club about the options available, the requirements and the safety rules.
Permitted weapons and equipment
During national exercises, shooting is carried out using approved service weapons and in accordance with official guidelines. For the 300-metre range, the Sturmgewehr 90 and Sturmgewehr 57 are particularly relevant. For pistols, approved service pistols such as the P75 and P49 are suitable.
- Assault Rifle 90: the Swiss Army’s current service weapon.
- Assault Rifle 57: a standard-issue weapon in Swiss shooting.
- P75 and P49 pistols: approved service pistols, depending on the occasion and programme.
- Resources: Use only in accordance with the official list of medical aids.
Procedure for the compulsory 300-metre shooting exercise
The compulsory programme at 300 metres consists of single-shot and rapid-fire shooting at A5 and B4 targets. The shooting requirement is deemed to have been met if the official minimum standard is achieved.
| Sequence of shots | Type of fire | Disc |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Procedure for the Swiss 300 m Field Shooting Competition
The Swiss Federal Field Shooting Competition is voluntary and takes place throughout Switzerland. It is particularly suitable for people who would like to try out shooting as a sport under supervised conditions.
| Competition mode | Shots | Time | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single fire | 6 shots | 6 minutes | After each shot |
| Short fire | 2 series with 3 shots each | 60 seconds per series | After each series |
| Rapid fire | 6 shots | 60 seconds total | At the end |
What do I need to bring to the compulsory shooting test?
Anyone required to complete the compulsory shooting exercise should ensure they are fully prepared. Missing documents may result in the exercise not being recorded correctly.
- Letter of demand or digital reminder: including adhesive labels, where available.
- Shooting record or military service record: to ensure accurate recording.
- Official identification: for identification purposes.
- Personal service weapon: transported with cleaning equipment and in accordance with the regulations.
- Personal hearing protection: strongly recommended and required at the stand.
Why take part?
National exercises are not merely a formal obligation. They promote the safe handling of service weapons, maintain shooting skills and combine military responsibility with the Swiss tradition of club membership.
Security
The correct handling of the weapon is practised under supervision. Safety rules always come first.
Shooting skill
Regular practice improves your grip, breathing, trigger control and accuracy.
fulfilment of duty
Army personnel required to attend shooting training fulfil an official requirement through the compulsory programme.
Club life
National exercises provide opportunities for members of the armed forces, sport shooters and interested members of the public to meet.
Dates, registration and official shooting days
The dates for national exercises are published annually by shooting clubs, shooting ranges and official bodies. For compulsory shooting, the official shooting schedule is particularly important.
Frequently asked questions about the national exercises
Is field shooting compulsory?
No. The Swiss Federal Field Shooting Competition is voluntary. However, it is closely linked to the Swiss shooting tradition and is organised by many recognised shooting clubs.
By when must the compulsory shooting test be completed?
The shooting requirement must be fulfilled within the official deadlines. Current dates and shooting schedules should always be checked via the SAT shooting day enquiry service or with the relevant club.
Can I take part without being a member of the club?
Depending on the occasion and circumstances, it may be possible to take part or receive coaching through a recognised shooting club. Anyone interested should contact their local club well in advance.
Which weapons are authorised?
Service weapons and aids are permitted in accordance with official guidelines. The current list of aids or the instructions issued by the relevant authorities are decisive.
What happens if the minimum requirement is not met?
Anyone who does not meet the minimum requirements in the compulsory programme must, in accordance with official guidelines, take further steps —such as retakes or additional courses. The relevant authorities and shooting instructors will provide information on the specific procedure.
If you prepare carefully, you’ll shoot better
Anyone attending compulsory shooting or field shooting should not only bring their documents with them. It is also important to remain calm, arrive on time, handle the weapon safely and be prepared to follow the range marshals’ instructions to the letter.
The Irchelschützen Berg-Buch support participants with their experience, clear procedures and a responsible club environment. If you have any questions about dates, procedures or getting started in shooting, it is worth getting in touch at an early stage.
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