Ask the Conservation Officer (CO)

by Gary Hompland, Regional Conservation Officer Question: "Last fall I was told PowerBelt muzzle loader projectiles were not legal to use in muzzleloader-only big game hunts. Last week I heard they are legal, what is the truth?" Answer: In February 2008 officials at PowerBelt Bullets requested a review of their pure lead series of muzzleloader projectile to determine if they were legal for muzzle-loader big game hunting in Idaho. A review of the technical specifications of the PowerBelt pure lead series projectile indicates it meets the minimum diameter specifications, is composed of lead or lead alloy, and is non-jacketed. The Department and the Commission decided the plastic gas check on the pure lead series did not meet the definition of a sabot. A sabot is a sleeve surrounding a projectile (bullet) allowing it to be fired from a firearm with a larger bore. Smaller, lighter bullets can be fired at high velocities from muzzleloaders using a sabot. Commission rules prohibit the use of sabots. As a result, the Commission and the Department have authorized PowerBelt lead series for muzzleloader big game hunting in Idaho for 2008. Reference Idaho Department of Fish and Game Commission Rules in the Idaho Administrative Bulletin at 13.01.08.410.03(c). If you have any further questions you may call the Magic Valley Regional Office of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at (208)324-4350 or e-mail us at the Fish and Game web site at http://fishandgame.Idaho.gov.