Posted: Aug 28, 2025 / 06:20 PM EDT
Updated: Aug 28, 2025 / 06:20 PM EDT
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https://www.news10.com/news/now-legal-in-ny-to-hunt-big-game-with-crossbows/
EAST GREENBUSH, N.Y. (NEWS10) -If you’re hunting deer or bear with a crossbow this fall, the owner of Bullseye Jim’s Archery says you won’t have to drive to Ohio anymore. “We’ve all anxiously been waiting our governor to sign this crossbow legislation which basically removes the differentiation between compound bows, recurves and crossbows.”Get the latest news, weather, sports and entertainment delivered right to your inbox!
A compound bow is the traditional bow and arrow that’s been allowed for hunting in New York. The crossbow looks more like a rifle and wasn’t allowed until now. Jim Despart believes crossbows make the sport accessible. “Some of those hunters that have aged out or due to injuries, other reasons why they can’t shoot their compound bow anymore, now they can get back out there with a crossbow.”
According to the DEC, crossbows will be a more effective tool against large populations of deer. They can cause car crashes, ecosystem problems and spread ticks. “For anyone that’s worried about crossbows wiping out the deer herd, I don’t think that’s gonna happen but it may transition some people from firearms,” added Despart.Hunters in Stillwater concerned for deer population
NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski got to shoot both bows at Bullseye Jim’s. He thinks the crossbow is the easier option but not as fun as the compound bow. As an accomplished archer, Despart said crossbows won’t replace their older relatives as compound bows can be reloaded faster.
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Ken Lovett, Senior Communications Advisor on Energy and Environment for Governor Kathy Hochul sent the following statement:
Hunting in New York provides recreational opportunities to nearly 700,000 state residents and over 50,000 nonresidents annually. Expanding opportunities for crossbow hunting will create more opportunities for hunters of diverse backgrounds while also helping with responsible wildlife population management.
Exposing the Big Game 