Wisconsin airgun hunting regulations

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1900colt

1900colt

Member
Aug 8, 2021
198
337
Wisconsin, United States
Well, this should be interesting
First year for big game airgun hunting in WI.. and this vague regulation is what we have to go by.

Open to way to much interpretation by any DNR agent or individual I think.

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Lowest I would go on deer would be 35 cal. with 45 /50 or larger being preferable. In air units we do not have the hydro shock power. So much like arrows we have to rely on the wound channel. No sense getting into the smaller calibers using head shots just wishful thinking. It is all about foot pounds of energy dumped into target. I haven't seen or heard of any new regs from the DNR to date aimed at air guns by themselves, but the the little note printed above is only the tip of the iceberg regarding hunting/fishing regulations overall. On top of that are various local regs. One area close to me bans anything that launches a projectile(s) right down to sling shots , blow guns & spit balls. Need about 400 ft pounds on a minimum basis, imop.
 
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That is not just a little note regarding hunting in WI. That is the FULL description from the regulations in WI for hunting.

I couldn't really believe that's it. So I texted the local game warden...his exact response

"Any airgun/caliber capable of reducing game to your possession is how it is worded in the statute"

I have airgun types that have most likely taken far more big game then any modern airgun currently out there. Airguns been taking big game for 100's of years.

Going by these regulations, I'll be able to hunt with one of my antiques. You could even make the argument for the .22 magnum rimfire.

Someone sitting in a deer stand could easily make headshots on deer, especially when they are walking by or standing within 25/30 yards.

At the minimum, I was hoping the regulations would have put at least a lowest caliber allowed.
 
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It's up to the warden to interpret the law and enforce it as he sees fit. That law leaves a lot to interpretation.

I'd be hunting with a gun that the warden would agree is appropriate. If the warden does not agree with your choice of weapons you can try and convince a judge.

The law gives you the room to make your own decisions. You can shoot anything that you feel will reasonably bring down the game you are after. As long as a guy knows he is within reason using a particular gun he should have no problems.

Get together with a warden and discuss your choice of equipment. Show him the rifle. Ask his opinion. If he thinks it's sketchy then just hunt with another weapon.
 
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