Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

1.     Do I need to be Swiss to join the ESRC?

Nope. The Edmonton Swiss Rifle Club has members from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. To qualify as a Swiss rifle club we must maintain a minimum Swiss national membership greater than 50% of the total members. We currently have room for non-swiss and always have room for swiss nationals.

2.     What type of firearms do you use?

Traditionally we use firearms that the swiss military uses, or has used in the past or target rifles like those used in Olympic competitions. In some competitions you can use “standard” rifles with open sights. None of our competitions allow the use of firearms outfitted with optical sights.

 3.     Do I need my own guns?

No. The club has several club rifles that members are welcome to use at our shoots.

4.     How much does it cost?

Membership with the ESRC is $20 for an individual or $25 for a family. It is recommended that you also join the Spruce Grove Gun Club. SGGC membership is $122 for individuals or $133 for families. If you choose to not get a SGGC membership, a day pass sponsored by another SGGC member will be required for each shoot. Day passes cost $20.

Beyond the initial membership costs different competitions have different costs associated with them. Some are free and include ammunition, others can cost upwards of $20 plus the cost of your ammunition.

5.     Do you need a license to shoot?

No. A license is only required if you wish to purchase your own firearms or ammunition you wish to take home.

6.     How old do you need to be?

The Edmonton Swiss Club allows anyone 10 years of age and older, who can safely handle a firearm to participate. We welcome families with kids, the smallbore (.22 calibre) events are especially suitable for young shooters.

7.     Do people only speak German at the club?

Nein. All our members speak English. You may also hear French, German or Italian.

8.     Where is the club located?

The club’s events all take place at the Spruce Grove Gun Club, approximately four kilometers north of Spruce Grove on Calahoo Road (RR 273) Click here for detailed directions and a map!

9.     All the equipment looks very expensive, how much does it all cost?

Getting equipped with your own equipment can cost as little as a couple hundred dollars for a basic used rifle and jacket. If you want the best of the best you can spend thousands of dollars getting custom equipment to match your specific needs and wants.

10.   How often does the club shoot?

Generally the club shoots once every month. Sometimes we have two shoots a month so we can provide a variety of special competitions beyond our standard events.

11.   Do I need to come to every event?

We would like it if you did, but we understand you have a life beyond the range. You are welcome to come to as many or as few events as you would like. However as a very social club we encourage our members to try to make competitions a daylong event. We tend to hold lunches and dinners during major competitions in the summer and enjoy spending time relaxing after a long day shooting with each other.

12.    If I have a firearm other than the Swiss ones used, can I use it for competitions?

Yes, provided it meets the rifle qualifications for the specific competition. Bring it with you and someone can inspect it and verify it meets the competition requirements. If it does not qualify the club has rifles you may use.

13.   Can I come out to an event and try it out before I join the club?

Absolutely! Come out and try the club out. The schedule page lists our upcoming events. Just contact us and we will make sure you can get into the range to see what it is like.