California

Centerfire rifles of any caliber firing certified non-lead (100% copper or copper alloy monolithic) expanding bullets are mandatory for all hunting take statewide under the California Non-Lead Ammunition Law. Traditional lead core bullets are strictly illegal anywhere in California. Suppressors are strictly prohibited under state criminal law.

Minimum .40 caliber single-barrel muzzleloaders firing non-lead expanding bullets or round balls. In-line muzzleloaders with 209 ignitions and magnifying scopes are legal during general rifle seasons; during dedicated muzzleloader-only hunts, specific zone rules apply. Black powder or commercial synthetic powders only.

Compound, recurve, and longbows capable of casting a legal hunting arrow at least 130 yards. Broadheads must have minimum 7/8-inch cutting width. Fixed and mechanical broadheads legal. Archery deer seasons open in July (Zone A) through August (D and X zones).

Permitted during general firearms rifle seasons. Crossbows are prohibited during archery-only seasons unless the hunter possesses a certified California Disabled Archer Crossbow Permit issued by CDFW. Minimum 125 lb draw weight with working safety and legal broadheads.

Centerfire handguns firing certified non-lead expanding bullets are legal for big game. .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and 10mm Auto firing solid copper bullets (such as Barnes TAC-XP) widely carried for backcountry black bear and coastal blacktail hunting.

10, 12, 16, 20 gauge shotguns with certified non-toxic shot required for all waterfowl and upland bird hunting statewide. Capacity plugged to 3 shells maximum across the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge and San Joaquin marshlands.