I recently saw an answer posted that stated, "No, it is unlawful to take deer with a .22 caliber weapon. This bullet does not possess enough mass and the charge does not create enough velocity to achieve adequate penetration".
I don't believe the regulations prohibit the use of a .22 caliber rifle, but rather state that a rimfire cartridge is illegal for the taking of big game. I believe that a .223 would be legal for the taking of Deer or Antelope. Is this correct?
Answer:
It is unlawful to pursue or kill big game animals with any rimfire rifle or rimefire handgun. Center fired rifles are lawful: examples are .22-250 and .223. There are exceptions for mountain lion and legally trapped wolves; see big game rules.
Answered on:
Thursday, October 23, 2014 - 10:30 AM MDT