Q: I’m a long-time rifle hunter looking to buy my first crossbow. Do crossbows need to be encased, uncocked, and unloaded in the field before and after legal shooting times? Or can I have it out of a case, but uncocked and unloaded? Also, do I need a trigger lock on my crossbow when stored?
Rick Steele, Stayner
A: Yes, crossbows must be unloaded and encased when in an area inhabited by wildlife (including traveling to and from the field), the same as guns. This means that from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, your crossbow must be unloaded and in a case that encloses it on all six sides. A crossbow is considered to be loaded if it is cocked and has a bolt in it. Crossbows do not have to be trigger locked.
ANSWER BY: David Critchlow, Provincial Enforcement Specialist, MNRF
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Originally published in the Nov.-Dec. 2021 issue of Ontario OUT of DOORS magazine. Ask a CO is also a regular feature in the print edition.
Please check the most recent Ontario hunting and fishing regulations summaries, as rules and regulations can change.
Lol? Crossbows do NOT need to be in a case, regardless of where you are. You can keep your crossbow in the back of your car at all times unloaded and uncased if you want, its NOT a firearm and therefore isnt subject to firearm regulations. Same thing with flintlocks, I do NOT need to have my flintlock in a case, nor do I need a trigger lock on it.
MNRF old dudes that think they know it all are jokes, things have changed.
What constitutes a “case” for the purpose of encasing a crossbow after dusk? Can it be any large bag? (Black garbage bag in a pinch)?