Crossbows In New Brunswick: Legal Or Not?

Crossbows are legal in New Brunswick, Canada, with some restrictions. Certified hunters may use crossbows during all hunting seasons except for the deer archery season and for hunting migratory game birds. Crossbows are also subject to specific safety regulations, such as not discharging within 100 metres of a dwelling, school, or place of business, and hunters must wear hunter's orange. In recent years, there have been changes to the regulations, with crossbows now allowed in the deer archery season for the first time.

Crossbows are legal in New Brunswick, Canada

It is important to note that crossbow hunters are subject to many of the same laws that apply to those using traditional bows and firearms. For instance, it is illegal to discharge a crossbow within 100 metres of a dwelling, school, or place of business in New Brunswick. Similar to firearms, crossbows must also be equipped with a safety mechanism and may not be carried in a cocked and loaded state on any vehicle, including all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles.

In recent years, there have been changes to the regulations regarding crossbow use in New Brunswick. Notably, starting in October 2016, hunters were allowed to use crossbows during the deer archery season for the first time. This change was implemented to accommodate older hunters who may experience shoulder or elbow pain that prevents them from using a traditional bow.

While crossbows are legal in New Brunswick, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed about the specific regulations and restrictions that apply to their use. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of both the hunters and the public, as well as to promote responsible hunting practices in the region.

Crossbows may be used during deer archery season

Crossbows are a weapon that fires an arrow using a trigger mechanism. This mechanism is similar to that of a rifle, and the arrow does not need to be drawn back before firing, unlike a traditional bow.

Crossbow hunters are subject to the same laws as those that apply to traditional bow hunters and those using firearms. These laws include:

• Not discharging a crossbow within 100 metres of a dwelling, school, or place of business.
• Not carrying a cocked and loaded crossbow on any vehicle, including all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles.
• Hunting crossbows must be equipped with a safety mechanism.
• Crossbow hunters must wear hunter's orange.

The deer archery season usually runs from October 3 to October 22.

Crossbows cannot be used for hunting migratory game birds

Crossbows are legal in New Brunswick, Canada, and may be used by certified hunters during all hunting seasons except for the deer archery season and for hunting migratory game birds.

Migratory Game Birds

Migratory game birds are defined as any bird that is hunted, with two categories in Canada: migratory and non-migratory. Migratory game bird seasons are regulated by the federal government under the authority of the Migratory Birds Convention Act (1917).

Crossbows and Migratory Game Birds

While crossbows are permitted for hunting in New Brunswick, they cannot be used for hunting migratory game birds. This is a regulation specific to the province, and it is important to adhere to the local hunting guidelines.

Hunting Regulations in New Brunswick

In addition to the restriction on hunting migratory game birds with crossbows, there are other important regulations to consider when hunting in New Brunswick. These include:

• A valid Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit and a Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp on the permit are required for hunting migratory game birds in Canada.
• Zone-specific restrictions are in place for hunting migratory game birds in New Brunswick. For example, specific areas within the Bay of Fundy, such as The Wolves and the Tabusintac River Estuary, are closed to hunting.
• Hunters must also adhere to the use of non-toxic shot when hunting migratory game birds other than woodcock.
• There are restrictions on the use of bait before and during the migratory bird hunting season.
• Hunters are required to follow guidelines related to the handling of wild game to prevent the spread of Avian Influenza Virus (AIV).

While crossbows are permitted for hunting in New Brunswick, they are not allowed for hunting migratory game birds. This restriction is in place to ensure the sustainable and ethical hunting of these bird species, which are an important part of the province's diverse bird population. It is essential for hunters to be aware of and comply with all applicable regulations to ensure responsible hunting practices.

Crossbows must have a minimum draw weight of 150 pounds

Crossbows are now legal in New Brunswick, Canada, for the deer archery season. However, there are strict regulations that must be followed. Crossbows may not be discharged within 100 metres of a dwelling, school, or place of business, and they must be transported in a safe manner. Crossbow hunters must wear hunter orange and follow specific safety protocols.

Regarding the minimum draw weight of 150 pounds, this specification is essential for ensuring the effectiveness and humanity of the weapon. A draw weight of 150 pounds is typically considered the minimum for hunting elk, one of the largest species within the deer family. Elk have a higher fat density and thicker hide, requiring more power to penetrate their hide. While a lower draw weight may be sufficient for smaller game, a minimum of 150 pounds is necessary for larger animals.

The draw weight of a crossbow refers to the amount of force required to pull the bowstring back. A higher draw weight translates to increased power and speed, resulting in a more powerful shot. For hunting, this means a quicker and more humane kill. The higher draw weight of crossbows, compared to regular bows, is due to their unique shape and the latch and trigger system that holds the string back.

When choosing a crossbow, it is important to consider your physical capabilities and the intended use. For hunting, the draw weight must be sufficient to meet state guidelines and ensure a clean kill. Most states require a minimum draw weight between 75 and 125 pounds, but this can vary depending on the region and the type of game being hunted.

It is worth noting that most crossbows do not offer adjustable draw weights, as altering the draw weight can compromise the stability and strength of the weapon. Therefore, it is crucial to select the appropriate draw weight for your needs before purchasing a crossbow.

Crossbow hunters must wear hunter orange

Crossbow hunting is a popular sport in Canada, but it is important to follow the necessary safety precautions. Crossbow hunters in New Brunswick, Canada, must adhere to specific regulations to ensure their safety and that of those around them. One crucial regulation is the requirement to wear hunter orange or camouflage orange garments while engaging in crossbow hunting. This mandate is not unique to New Brunswick and is also enforced in the Northwest Territories.

Wearing hunter orange is a critical safety measure for several reasons. Firstly, this bright colour helps make hunters visible to other hunters in the area, reducing the risk of accidental shootings. It is especially important in regions with dense foliage, where it can be challenging to spot other hunters. Secondly, wearing hunter orange helps distinguish hunters from their prey. Deer, for example, are colour blind and perceive orange as a dull grey, so hunters wearing this colour are less likely to be mistaken for prey.

In addition to wearing hunter orange, crossbow hunters in New Brunswick must follow other safety regulations. These include maintaining a safe distance from dwellings, schools, and businesses. Hunters are prohibited from discharging their crossbows within 100 metres of these locations. Furthermore, crossbows must be transported in an unloaded and safe manner. When transporting a crossbow on a vehicle, it should not be cocked and loaded, and it must be equipped with a safety mechanism.

It is important to note that crossbow hunting in New Brunswick is permitted during specific seasons and for particular game species. Crossbows may be used by certified hunters during all hunting seasons except for the deer archery season and the hunting of migratory game birds.

Frequently asked questions