Restrictions on Firearms and Archery Tackle

Legal hunting equipment depends on the game species, the type of firearm or archery tackle, and the location.

• When hunting with a shotgun, these are the restrictions.
  • The maximum shotgun size is 10 gauge.
  • Shotgun barrels must not be shorter than 18 inches.
  • During spring turkey season, you may not hunt with any shot size larger than #2 fine shot.
  • When hunting migratory birds, your shotgun must not be capable of holding more than three shells.
• When hunting deer or bear with a rifle, the rifle must be .23 caliber or larger.
• When hunting big game with a muzzleloading pistol, the pistol must be .45 caliber or larger.
• Fully automatic firearms are illegal.
• Crossbow and archery equipment may be used during all hunting seasons. When hunting with archery tackle, these restrictions apply:
  • The arrow must not contain any drug, chemical, or toxic substance.
  • The arrowhead must not have an explosive tip.

Some counties may have local ordinances that restrict the use of firearms. For specific information, see the Hunting & Trapping Regulations information on the DWR website.