Norway terror attacks: Firearms 'a tradition'

FIREARMS ownership in Norway stands at the highest level in Western Europe, with one third of households owning a gun. As a nation of passionate hunters and with a long tradition of world-class sports shooting, rifle ownership is part of society.

Although gun control is tightly regulated by the Norwegian government, citizens can apply for either a hunting licence, the most common permit, or a sports shooting licence, which is also popular.

Unlike in the United States, for example, applicants must complete courses and exams, including demonstrating they are already trained in the use of firearms.

The most popular type of weapons are semi-automatic and bolt-action rifles, and it is also possible to buy shotguns.

Handguns are much less popular, accounting for just 3.8 per cent of ownership. They are also more tightly controlled and high-calibre models are banned.

There is also a ban on automatic weapons, for example assault rifles, and any modification to make semi-automatic weapons automatic carries a prison sentence. Norway has historically the lowest murder rate in Western Europe.