In a move that could shake up Pennsylvania’s hunting scene, a new bill is making waves by proposing the use of large-caliber air rifles for big game hunting. House Bill 1538, introduced on June 2 by State Representative Gary Day, a Republican from Lehigh County, aims to add these powerful airguns to the list of legal weapons for hunting deer, bear, and elk. This legislation could mark the first significant change to Pennsylvania’s big game hunting regulations since crossbows were greenlit in 2009, opening the door to a modern twist on a time-honored tradition.
The push for air rifles comes from a desire to keep Pennsylvania’s hunting laws in step with evolving technology. Rep. Day, who introduced the bill, emphasized that these aren’t the BB guns of childhood memories. “Modern large-caliber air rifles are capable of achieving the velocity and energy required for ethical big game hunting,” he said in a May memo. He believes this change could draw in new hunters, expand opportunities for seasoned sportsmen, and support conservation efforts, all while keeping public safety and environmental concerns in check. The bill has already gained traction, with co-sponsorship from Rep. David Rowe, a Republican representing parts of Juniata, Mifflin, Snyder, and Union counties.
So, what makes these air rifles different? Unlike the Daisy Red Ryders many associate with plinking cans in the backyard, today’s large-caliber airguns are a breed apart. Ed Schultz, president of the Airgun Sporting Association, explained that modern air rifles, particularly Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) models, pack serious power. These guns can deliver 200 to 300 foot-pounds of energy, with an effective range of 50 to 75 yards—comparable to archery equipment. For big game, most states require a minimum of .357 caliber, though some, like Maryland, set the bar at .40 caliber with at least 400 foot-pounds of energy, while West Virginia allows .45 caliber air rifles firing 200-grain bullets during rifle seasons.
The technology behind these airguns isn’t new—big-bore air rifles have been around for centuries. Historical records even note Meriwether Lewis carrying a compressed-air rifle during the Lewis and Clark expedition in the early 1800s. But recent advancements have made them more reliable and powerful, appealing to hunters looking for a quieter, lighter alternative to traditional firearms. With manufacturers like Benjamin, Hatsan, Air Force, and Umarex producing over 50 models in .357 caliber and larger, the market is booming. Arrow-shooting air bows, which can fire arrows at speeds exceeding 300 feet per second, are also gaining popularity.
Pennsylvania isn’t alone in eyeing air rifles for big game. Twenty-nine other states, including neighbors Maryland and West Virginia, already allow them under specific regulations. Maryland permits air rifles for bear and deer during firearms seasons, while West Virginia includes them in rifle deer and bear seasons. This growing trend reflects a broader shift in the hunting world, where airguns are seen as a way to attract new enthusiasts while preserving the sport’s traditions. Schultz noted that interest in airgun hunting has surged over the past decade, with more than half of U.S. states now permitting their use for big game.
Currently, Pennsylvania allows manually operated and semiautomatic air rifles and handguns for small game and furbearers, with calibers ranging from .177 to .22. For woodchucks and furbearers, a minimum of .22 caliber is required. However, big game like deer, bear, and elk are off-limits for airguns unless House Bill 1538 passes. The bill would give the Pennsylvania Game Commission the authority to regulate air rifles for big game, setting seasons and rules to ensure responsible use. Travis Lau, the Game Commission’s communications director, clarified that while the agency supports the concept, it can’t act without legislative approval. “It wouldn’t mandate airguns for specific seasons,” Lau said, “but it would allow the commission to include them where appropriate.”
The proposal isn’t without its skeptics. A recent poll conducted by USA TODAY Network sites in Pennsylvania showed mixed feelings, with 60.65% of 770 voters opposing the legalization of air rifles for big game, while 39.35% supported it. Critics may worry about the effectiveness of airguns compared to traditional rifles or the potential for misuse. However, proponents argue that with proper oversight, air rifles can be integrated safely into Pennsylvania’s wildlife management framework. Rep. Day emphasized that the bill prioritizes ethical hunting and environmental stewardship, ensuring that any new regulations would align with the state’s conservation goals.
For hunters, the appeal of air rifles lies in their versatility. They’re quieter than firearms, making them ideal for areas where noise is a concern, and they’re often lighter, which can be a game-changer during long days in the field. Plus, the lower recoil compared to centerfire rifles makes them accessible to a wider range of hunters, including those who might find traditional firearms intimidating. The bill could also boost local economies, as hunters invest in new gear from retailers like Dunkelberger’s Sports Outfitter in Stroudsburg, where buyer Perry Henley has seen growing interest in airguns.
House Bill 1538 is currently under review by the House Game and Fisheries Committee, where it will face scrutiny before moving forward. If passed, it could usher in a new era for Pennsylvania hunters, blending cutting-edge technology with the state’s deep-rooted hunting traditions. For now, the debate continues, with sportsmen across the commonwealth watching closely to see if air rifles will become their next tool for pursuing deer, bear, and elk in the wilds of Pennsylvania.
