|

Legal Weapons for Georgia Deer Hunting [2022]

Last Updated on May 27, 2022 by Brian Grossman

If you’re trying to determine which weapons are legal for deer hunting in Georgia, you’ve come to right place! In this article, we break down legal archery equipment, primitive weapons, and firearms for deer hunting.

Legal Firearms for Deer Hunting

  • Modern Rifles and Handguns: Centerfire only, .22-cal. or larger with expanding bullets. There is no restriction on magazine capacity for rifles.
  • Shotguns: 20-gauge or larger loaded with slugs or buckshot.
  • Muzzleloaders: .30-cal. or larger, or muzzleloading shotguns 20 gauge or larger. Scopes are legal.
  • Air Guns: Any air rifle of at least .30 caliber or air bow utilizing unignited compressed gas or air is legal during primitive weapons and firearms seasons.

Legal Primitive Weapons for Deer Hunting

Archery equipment, air bows, .30-cal. or larger air rifles and muzzleloaders or muzzeleloading shotguns are legal during primitive weapons season. Scopes are legal.

Legal Archery Equipment for Deer Hunting

Crossbows, longbows, recurve bows, and compound bows are allowed for hunting any game or feral hog. Arrows for hunting deer, bear or feral hog must be broadhead type. Draw weight, let-off, arrow-length, and sights are not restricted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I deer hunt with an AR15?

A. Yes, AR15s utilize .223 or NATO 5.56 centerfire cartridges, which are legal for deer hunting. Georgia does not restrict magazine capacities for deer hunting, so any size magazine will work.


Q. Can I deer hunt with an air rifle?

A. Absolutely. Air rifles .30 caliber and larger may be used for deer hunting during Georgia’s primitive weapons and firearms deer seasons.


Q. Can I deer hunt with an air bow?

A. Yes you can. Air bows are legal for deer hunting during the primitive weapons and firearms deer season in Georgia.


Q. What is the maximum number of shells my gun can hold for deer hunting?

A. There is no restriction on firearm magazine capacity for deer hunting.


Q. Can I use a suppressor while deer hunting?

A. Yes. Suppressors are legal for deer hunting with landowner permission.


Georgia Firearm Restrictions

  • Convicted felons may not possess any firearm or muzzleloading firearm while hunting unless that individual’s right to carry has been restored (OCGA § 16-11-131). This does not apply to archery equipment, air bows or air rifles.
  • Loaded Weapon: A firearm is considered loaded if a shell is in the chamber or magazine, a percussion cap is on the nipple, or powder is present on the frizzen pan. A crossbow is considered loaded if it is cocked.
  • Plugged Shotguns: For hunting migratory game birds, shotguns shall be limited to a capacity of not more than 3 shells in the magazine and chamber combined. If a plug is necessary to so limit the capacity, the plug shall be of 1 piece and incapable of being removed from the loading end of the magazine.
  • Suppressors: Lawfully possessed suppressors may be used for hunting, unless otherwise specified. Permission of the landowner is required on private land.

Other Georgia Deer Hunting Information

Georgia’s 2022-2023 Deer Season Dates
Georgia’s Youth Deer Hunting Requirements
Georgia’s Deer Baiting Laws

Similar Posts