5 Countries That Are Firmly Pro Gun Rights

By Ready to Fire News Last updated May 17, 2019

Overall, America is pretty proud of the Second Amendment. Many people fight to uphold what it stands for in the history of our country. And when you look at the habits of everyday Americans, it makes sense.

According to a Pew Research Center survey, it’s estimated that 4 out of 10 households have firearms on their properties. The survey goes even further to say that 48 percent of those people grew up in houses where their families owned guns as well. So, that’s about half of the population that is supportive of owning firearms. Incidentally, most of those gun owners say they want them around for protection.

Did you ever wonder what it’s like for gun owners in other countries? Are their laws as strict or more permissive about gun rights?

Here’s a surprising fact. Only three countries in the world have the right to bear arms listed in their constitutions. That includes the US, Mexico, and Guatemala. Even if gun rights aren’t specifically listed by law, there are many countries that support gun rights.

Let’s look at a few other countries that have seemingly healthy gun-owning cultures.

Switzerland

Switzerland is considered a very safe country for its residents. They do support a robust gun culture where many of its citizens own firearms for protection and hunting. There are many gun ranges scattered throughout the country.

Here’s a fun fact: it used to be required for all males to have a Sig SG 550 in their homes for protection. They got rid of that law in 2010, making it voluntary. Anyone over the age of 18 can purchase a firearm that is bolt action or single shot without a permit there.

Norway

Due to a large part of the population being hunters, it’s said that Norway has one of the largest number of gun owners per capita in the world.

All firearms there are clearly outlined in their Firearms Weapons Act, which was just recently updated in 2009. You can easily obtain a license for a rifle or shotgun through the police just by documenting your need and being over the age of 18. You do have to be 21 to own a handgun though.

Canada

Another country where hunting is practically a national sport is our neighbor to the north. They are far more relaxed about gun ownership in many respects. Their Firearms Act states which category each type of firearm falls into, and what type of permit you might need.

You do need a “possession and acquisition license” that is handled by their federal police. It’s estimated that 28 percent of Canadians have firearms legally in their homes.

Sweden

The people of Sweden call their gun ownership laws the Vapenlagen or the “weapon law.” The police will issue a license to anyone over the age of 18 that show good cause to have a firearm, mainly for hunting. There is a hunting examination, and in order to start the process you must have been a member of a gun club for at least 6 months.

Italy

In Italy, it’s easy to own a firearm when you obtain a license. They are divided into three different categories for gun types. Those are hunting, shooting or concealed carry. They do limit the number of firearms you can own, but it’s pretty high in numbers. For example, you can own up to three handguns and six hunting-style weapons. The police there will also issue licenses to anyone over the age of 18 that doesn’t have a criminal record.

~ Ready to Fire News