NYS handgun hunting

[John G]

I've been hunting in upstate NY for most of my life, and am now looking into handgun hunting. Can anyone give me an idea about the laws pertaining to zones, times, etc? The DEC website is pretty weak as far as handguns go. Thanks.

 

[Mal H]

Since this is more of a hunting issue, I'll move this to The Hunt forum...

 

[Legionnaire]

John, can you be more specific as to your question? The annual bulletin contains the general regs regarding times, zones, etc.

A couple of years ago, DEC dropped the requirement that your handgun be .35 caliber or better. I've hunted with T/C Contender in .35 Rem and a Ruger SuperRedhawk in .44 mag. Looking to try out a T/C Encore in .243 next season.

What else can we tell ya?

 

[John G]

The info on caliber helps, thanks. Also, is barrel length regulated? (legio patria nostra)

 

[Legionnaire]

John,

From the 2000-2001 bulletin, page 24 (Legal implements for big game hunting):

Handgun*- Any centerfire pistol or revolver. Barrel length maximum is 16 inches.

* It is illegal to hunt with a fully automatic firearm, an autoloading firearm that holds more than 6 shells except an autoloading pistol with a barrel length under 8 inches, or any firearm equipped with a silencer.

General Prohibition (page 11):

You may not use a rifle or a handgun to hunt pheasant or turkey.

Hope this helps.

Legionnaire

NRA Life Member
Hunter Safety Instructor
Cogito, ergo armorer.

[Edited by Legionnaire on 03-01-2001 at 09:32 AM]