Crossbow Deer Hunting In New York

No. 1 complaint: Short season. The early big game archery season (deer and bear) begins on Oct. 1 each year. In New York state, the long early archery season restricts crossbow use until two weeks just before the start of the regular big game firearm season — Nov. 16 this year. That means that hunters in New York cannot use a crossbow until Nov. 2-15 this year. Crossbow use is allowed during the regular season and extended black powder season. Thank you for that, Albany.

No. 2 complaint: The crossbow physical size (width and length) and draw (pull weight) is limited. Since New York state allows crossbow use for a limited season, why limit the width and pull weight of the crossbow? Does the restriction of limiting the width of the un-cocked crossbow to 17 inches, minimum length to 24 inches (butt stock to the front of the limbs) and restricting the draw to between 100 (minimum) to 200 pounds (maximum) somehow promote responsible hunting practices and protect the hunter and the wildlife? Shorter limbs, revised pulley systems and state-of-the-art technology allow for the safety question. Yet, compound bows are not restricted to a minimum overall length. Shorter bows make it easier for hunters to climb into their tree stands with more safety and less effort.

So does the narrower physical size for crossbows. Some might argue that crossbows have a more extended range, but what about the range of unlimited-length long bows and high-end, high-power compound bows? These have a much longer range. Some might argue that crossbows are more deadly and more efficient at killing deer. Yes, perhaps they are, as they are easy to use — but that is the reason for the season. Crossbows are certainly more accurate in the hands of a novice hunter than compound

bows. That means fewer wounded deer. It means more dead deer within the restriction of deer harvest numbers per hunter and safer roadways for everyone.

One feature on the Centerpoint Sinister 430 crossbow that will benefit elderly hunters, young hunters too, is the integrated silent self-cocking system that draws to 200 pounds.
Submitted photo

Compound bows and crossbows both have sights. Crossbows have a scope with internal lighting, which reduces inaccurate shots. Crossbows have a safety, a mandatory NYS rule — a good rule. We all need safety. Disabled and elderly hunters can use a crossbow with more confidence and ease than a compound bow.

No. 3 complaint: Crossbow hunters must purchase a black powder (muzzleloading) license to use a crossbow in New York. Some say this can only be argued in one direction: New York wants to increase revenue in any way it can. Crossbows generally shoot short 18- to 22-inch arrows called bolts, not bullets, at speeds of 225 to 430 feet per second (fps). Compound bow arrows vary from 22 to 31 inches in length, depending on the hunter’s size, and they travel at 200 to 480 fps. Should compound bow users pay an extra fee if their arrows are more deadly because the archer is physically more prominent, younger, and stronger and can accept the more significant challenge of using a compound bow? This seems like discrimination by any other definition. In New York, every crossbow hunter must carry a paper certification stating that they read and understand the rules for crossbow use. Do we need one of these to use a rifle in New York? No. Hmmm. More crossbow discrimination?

If crossbows were allowed during the early archery season, it could open up more opportunities for youth hunters and potentially reduce the number of young people spending their time on video games. Limiting crossbow use by restricting the season, the physical size, and the pull weight of the crossbow seems like an unrealistic approach from the standpoint of wildlife management. However, there’s hope that with the right changes, we could see a more inclusive and vibrant hunting community in New York.

NYS Senate Bill S5802 passed by a margin of 59-3, allowing crossbow use for all hunters over 60. It’s a step in the right direction, but it’s not enough. As I approach 80, I’d like to see this bill get passed without the hassle of asking my doctor for special dispensation. I know thousands of others feel the same way. The companion bill A6815 stalled in the New York State Assembly, which is disappointing. It’s clear that more needs to be done to address the issues with crossbow regulations in New York.

Last, I tried out several crossbows this past year. Affordability and safety were high on my list. Ultimately, because I hunt in several states (don’t let the old man in), I settled on a Centerpoint Sinister 430. It’s a new bow. It has a fully integrated silent cocking system (good for old guys) and an adjustable butt stock to fit my long frame; it’s light and fast (430 fps), but for NYS, it’s too narrow at 14-1/8-inches un-cocked from tip to tip of the limbs. It does not meet the NYS 17-inch minimum width rule, BUT, from cam to cam, it is 19-1/4 inches measured that way! Hey, NYS, can we get one more silly new rule? I will kill many deer with this hunting tool, but not in New York. I refuse to disobey a Conservation Law, and I can’t afford two crossbows.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Oct. 1 to Nov. 15: NYS Southern Zone early big game archery season.

Oct. 19: Regular WNY pheasant season opened.

Oct. 19 to Nov. 1: NYS Southern Zone fall turkey season.

Oct. 25: Trapping season opens for fox, coyote, racoon, skunk, opossum, weasel.

Oct. 29: Fly Fishing and Fly-Tying Class, free, 7-8:30 p.m., with Alberto Rey, Costello Room, Rockefeller Arts Center, SUNY Fredonia. Info: email reya@fredonia.edu.

Nov. 1: Leftover deer management permits go on sale, first-come, first served at license issuing agent sites.

Nov. 2-15: NYS Southern Zone crossbow big game season

Nov. 16 to Dec. 8: NYS Southern Zone Regular (firearm) big game season

Dec. 9-17 and Dec. 26 to Jan. 1: NYS Southern Zone late bowhunting season