Swedish Government Proposes Ban on AR-15 Rifles for Hunting
The Swedish government proposes a ban on the AR-15 rifle for hunting, sparking political division and debate.
Key Points
- • Swedish government proposes a ban on the AR-15 rifle for hunting.
- • New permits for hunting with AR-15 will not be issued starting August 1, 2025.
- • Existing permits for AR-15 will be revoked within two years.
- • Proposal has sparked strong reactions from both politicians and hunters.
The Swedish government, together with the Sweden Democrats, has proposed a ban on the AR-15 semi-automatic rifle for hunting, causing significant division among politicians and hunters. This announcement comes as part of a comprehensive reform of the country's gun legislation. Under the new proposal, starting August 1, 2025, the police will stop issuing new permits for the AR-15, and existing permits will be revoked within two years.
Reactions to the proposal have been mixed. Helena Vilhelmsson, a member of the Centre Party, condemned the decision as a "meaningless measure that punishes law-abiding gun owners," emphasizing the emotional and divisive impact this ban is having on the hunting community. The controversy highlights a growing tension in Sweden regarding gun ownership and public safety concerns.