Dispatching deer legally in archery season

**Bang** · September 24th, 2020, 09:50 PM

I guess I am not very articulate. I'll try again.

There was a time when the PGC could and did enter homes without a warrant to inspect freezers after July 31st...the last day one was allowed to possess venison, in total disregard for the constitution.

I cited it as an example, stating it as With absolute authority comes arrogance and abuse. It used to happen. For years.

**Steve in PA** · September 25th, 2020, 07:42 PM

I’m a LEO and if a motorist safely put down a deer, they would not have issues with me. I’m a hunter, but I hate to see animals suffer.

**hunterdan** · September 26th, 2020, 06:08 AM

Biggest hurdle to any of this would be firearms or noise ordinances in townships. Many townships, especially in special regs areas prohibit the discharge of firearms, bows, crossbows or pellet guns unless on a range or hunting in the proper season. That's where dispatching a wounded deer can get you into trouble. While I hate seeing an animal suffer, I'm also not going to put myself in jeopardy of losing firearms or my hunting privilege. As mentioned above earlier, if you can safely approach the deer, a good sharp knife can quickly dispatch a deer in short order in several ways. Im assuming this whole conversation is in regards to an animal hit by a car, not one shot with a bow or crossbow. If its in regards to one shot with a bow, using a firearm to finish it off is a definite no-no.

**Gunplummer** · September 27th, 2020, 02:56 PM

Bang is spot on. I remember those days. Pull you over for no reason and search your car. "We got a tip.....". Still, if it is legal to hunt with a bow and legal to hunt with a loader and legal to carry both at the same time and it is a doe? Road hit: If I am in an unknown area I pick out the closest road sign or business and call 911. Even in large towns the cops respond pretty quick.

**Denis S** · September 28th, 2020, 10:38 AM

Thanks all, definitely no gun to finish the deer. Stalked my ‘resident’ herd yesterday early morning, had two of them broadside to me grazing still, but did not get closer than 60 yards and not yet comfortable taking an honest shot at that distance.

**ItchyTick** · September 28th, 2020, 08:35 PM

Originally Posted by Denis S

Hi everyone. I searched for an answer here, but didn’t see it addressed recently. New to hunting, got my license and tags. I’m in Bucks Co (wmu 5D), so it’s either bow/crossbow or shotgun for me. How can I dispatch a wounded deer legally during archery season? I remembered reading in my license training materials that I can use a handgun and place a single shot to the skull, but I’m also reading regulations that I can’t use any firearms during a hunt in archery season. Please advise.

I second crossbow bolt through the vitals will keep you out of trouble.