Crossbow Hunting in the State of Pennsylvania

Starting this fall hunters can kill deer with a crossbow during the archery season anywhere in Pennsylvania.  On January 27th, the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners approved the expansion of lawful use of crossbows to hunt both deer and bear during the 2009-10 seasons. 

According to the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners:  ”Under the new regulation, a crossbow must have a peak drawn weight of at least 125 pounds, and a bolt must be equipped with a broadhead that has an outside diameter or width of at least 7/8 inches with at least two cutting edges on the same plane throughout the length of the cutting surface, and shall not exceed three inches in length.”

Supporters of expanding crossbow hunting rights in Pennsylvania say it will lead to more hunters and tourists.  Many worry that the population of sportsmen in Pennsylvania is shrinking and hope these new laws with help change that. It is also thought that using crossbows during archery season will lead to more controlled kills where the animal expires faster.  

If you don’t like the fact that crossbows are now legal there will be another vote before June 30, 2012. 

If you do like the fact that crossbows are now legal in Pennsylvania congrats your voice has been heard.