2 replies to this topic

[fireguy]

I was looking through our regs the other day and was a little surprised to see that the only animal in B.C. that we are not allowed to hunt with a crossbow is Bison, even though we are allowed to hunt them with a minimum 50lb compound bow.

"Bow E (Bison only) - For bison, the bow (does not include compound
crossbow) must have a pull no less than 22.6 kg (50 lbs) within the archer’s
draw length, an arrow greater than 26 g (400 grains) in weight, and a
broadhead greater than 8.1 g in weight and 2.2 cm (7/8 in) at its widest
point."

I understand the logic behind putting a minimum weapon standard in for some game but with todays crossbows I see no real reason for this regulation.

Just for a reference point, these are our legal archery regulations with "Bow B" being allowed only for small game and deer and " Bow A and C" being allowed for everything else including elk, moose, and grizzly bears.

Bow A (Crossbow)(does not include compound crossbow) - Must have a
pull of no less than 68 kg (150 lbs) or a bolt (quarrel) weighing no less than
16.2 g (250 grains). For big game, the bolt (quarrel) must have a broadhead
of at least 2.2 cm (7/8 in) at the widest point.

Bow B (Crossbow) (does not include compound crossbow)- Must have pull
of no less than 55 kg (120 lbs) or a bolt (quarrel) weighing no less than
16.2 g (250 grains). For big game, the bolt (quarrel) must have a broadhead
of at least 2.2 cm (7/8 in) at the widest point.

Bow C (Compound Crossbow) - Must have pull of no less than 45 kg
(100 lbs) at a peak weight or bolt weighing no less than 16.2 g (250 grains).
For big game, must have an arrow with a broadhead at least 2.2 cm (7/8
in) at the widest point.

I am able to get a motion in next weekend for a regulation change and was just wondering what the group of you that know a whole lot about this would think a minimum for crossbows should be for Bison. Another point is that there is a minimum for firearms for Bison as well, so I wouldn't be pushing for no minimum as it would never get passed.

The firearms restriction is as follows:

ammunition to hunt bison must be constructed with
a 175 grain or larger bullet, which retains 2,712 joules
(2,000 ft lbs) or more energy at 100 m.

[fireguy]

Just a fyi this is for a free range, non fenced, fair chase season that there is guided hunts for in the area if you guys from the states wanted to hunt with your crossbows. I saw a picture of one taken this year that may be close to a new world record so there is an opportunity here if you wanted. Without a change, you would have to use either a rifle or bow.

[fireguy]

Well we got the change proposal in to the government, now we just have to see where it takes us.