Quote:
Originally Posted by Jeff Higgins
It may be legal as a "pistol", but would it be legal in .223 / 5.56 NATO? Some states allow deer hunting with .22 caliber centerfires, but most do not.
Even if legal, the dramatically decreased velocity from that short "pistol" barrel would do nothing to help a cartridge that is pretty marginal on deer as it is, even from a full size rifle.
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It's not what I would use, I'll stick with my 12GA, but it is legal.
A lot of guys are hunting with ARs 'Up North'.
*Edit to add that I am a one shot hunter. I've passed on a lot of deer because I wasn't sure of my shot or that it would be a clean drop.
Legal big game cartridges
It is at least .220 caliber and has center fire ignition;
It is loaded only with single projectile ammunition;
The projectile used has a soft point or is an expanding bullet type;*
The muzzleloader (long gun or handgun) used cannot be loaded at the breech (muzzleloading revolvers are not legal for taking big game);
The smooth-bore muzzleloader used is at least .45 caliber and
The rifled muzzleloader used is at least .40 caliber;
Muzzleloaders with scopes are legal during the regular firearms deer season and the muzzleloader season.
* Note: Hunters are reminded to select bullets that are suitable for taking big game. Most major manufacturers offer either bonded or all-copper bullets that are appropriate for taking big game. Hunters are advised to select a proper bullet design and weight that is suitable for humanely taking big game.