R657-5-8. Rifles, Shotguns, Airguns, and Crossbows

  (1) A rifle used to hunt big game must fire centerfire cartridges and expanding bullets.

  (2) A shotgun used to hunt big game must be 20 gauge or larger, firing only 00 or larger buckshot or slug ammunition.

  (3) An airgun used to hunt big game must:

  (a) be pneumatically powered;

  (b) be pressurized solely through a separate charging device; and

  (c) may only fire a bolt or arrow:

  (i) no less than 16 inches long;

  (ii) with a fixed or expandable broadhead at least 7/8 inch wide at its widest position; and

  (iii) traveling no less than 400 feet per second at the muzzle.

  (4)(a) A crossbow used to hunt big game must have a minimum draw weight of 125 pounds and a positive mechanical safety mechanism.

  (b) A crossbow arrow or bolt used to hunt big game must be at least 16 inches long and have:

  (i) fixed broadheads that are at least 7/8 inch wide at the widest point; or

  (ii) expandable, mechanical broadheads that are at least 7/8 inch wide at the widest point when the broadhead is in the open position.

  (c) Unless otherwise authorized by the division through a certificate of registration, it is unlawful for any person to:

  (i) hunt big game with a crossbow or airgun during a big game archery hunt;

  (ii) carry a cocked crossbow containing an arrow or a bolt while in or on any motorized vehicle on a public highway or other public right-of-way; or

  (iii) hunt any protected wildlife with a crossbow utilizing a bolt that has any chemical, explosive or electronic device attached.

  (5) A crossbow used to hunt big game may have a fixed or variable magnifying scope only during an any weapon hunt.