Buckshot is a tool that many hunters assume is an option for deer hunting, but in California, its use comes with some restrictions that can be confusing. Unlike other states where buckshot might be a common choice, California law only allows it under specific conditions. To help clear things up, we’re breaking down exactly when and where you can legally use buckshot for deer hunting in the state.
When Is Buckshot Allowed?
Under California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 353 ( the use of shotguns capable of holding no more than three shells firing size 0 or 00 buckshot is only permitted in areas where the discharge of rifles or shotguns with slugs is prohibited by county ordinance. This means that unless a specific county has a local law banning rifles or slug use, hunters cannot legally use buckshot to take deer.
We at Hunterizer wanted to clarify this, so we reached out to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Warden John Brusa confirmed that to legally use buckshot for deer, a hunter must be in an area where rifles or slugs are prohibited by county ordinance.
For instance, let’s say you have a deer hunting trip planned for XYZ County, and you’re considering using buckshot. Before heading out, you check the local regulations and find that the county has a law prohibiting the use of rifles and slug-firing shotguns due to safety concerns. In this case, using a shotgun with 0 or 00 nonlead buckshot would be a legal option for taking deer. However, if the county does allow rifles or slugs, then buckshot would not be permitted, and you would need to choose another legal hunting method.
Can You Use Buckshot for Deer Hunting in California?
If you’re wondering whether buckshot is a legal option for deer hunting in California, here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you make sure you’re following the law.
(Follow the steps below to determine if buckshot is legal in your area.)
| 1️⃣ Are you hunting deer? ➝ No ❌ Buckshot NOT allowed ➝ Yes → Go to Question 2 |
| 2️⃣ Is deer hunting with rifles or slugs prohibited by county ordinance? ➝ No ❌ Buckshot NOT allowed ➝ Yes → Go to Question 3 |
| 3️⃣ Is your shotgun limited to 3 shells? ➝ No ❌ Buckshot NOT allowed ➝ Yes → Go to Question 4 |
| 4️⃣ Are you using 0 or 00 buckshot? ➝ No ❌ Buckshot NOT allowed ➝ Yes → Go to Question 5 |
| 5️⃣ Are you using nonlead buckshot? ➝ No ❌ Buckshot NOT allowed ➝ Yes ✅ Buckshot is LEGAL in this area! |
| *Be sure to check the most recent California Department of Fish and Wildlife Regulations for updates or changes. |
Why Is Buckshot Restricted?
The primary reason for limiting buckshot is its effectiveness—or lack thereof—compared to other legal hunting methods. Buckshot pellets have a shorter effective range and are more likely to wound rather than cleanly kill a deer, leading to ethical concerns and potential loss of game. California’s regulations emphasize ethical hunting practices, ensuring that animals are taken as humanely as possible.
Where Can You Use Buckshot?
The key to knowing whether you can legally use buckshot for deer hunting in California is determining if a county ordinance prohibits the use of rifles or slug-firing shotguns. Since these laws vary by location, checking local regulations is essential before heading out into the field.
So how do you find out if a county has such an ordinance? Here are a few steps to help:
- Check County Websites – Many counties publish their hunting regulations online, often under sheriff’s offices or local fish and game departments.
- Contact Local Law Enforcement or Wildlife Officials – County sheriff’s offices or CDFW wardens can confirm firearm restrictions in specific areas.
- Review Hunting Maps & Public Land Regulations – Some public lands, such as wildlife preserves or urban-adjacent hunting zones, may have posted restrictions on rifle use, making buckshot a legal alternative.
- Ask Local Hunters – If you’re hunting in a new area, talking to experienced locals or hunting forums can often give you a quick answer about firearm restrictions.
Because these laws can change, it’s always a good idea to verify the latest county regulations before your trip. If there’s any doubt, using a legal alternative like a slug-firing shotgun or a rifle may be the safest option.
Determining whether you can use buckshot requires researching county-specific ordinances. Some urbanized or densely populated areas may prohibit rifles or slugs for safety reasons, making buckshot a legal alternative. However, these areas are the exception rather than the rule.
Final Thoughts
Understanding hunting regulations can be challenging, but staying informed is key to hunting legally and ethically. At Hunterizer, we’re committed to helping hunters navigate these rules with ease. Our interactive maps provide up-to-date information on public hunting lands, hunting regulations, and game and season details, helping you stay informed and plan your hunt with confidence.
For most hunters in California, buckshot isn’t a viable option for deer hunting. Unless you’re in an area where rifles and slugs are prohibited, you’ll need to choose another legal method like a centerfire rifle with softnose or expanding bullets, a shotgun with slugs, or archery equipment. Checking local laws before your trip is the best way to avoid issues in the field.
By staying informed and practicing ethical hunting, you can enjoy a responsible and legal hunting experience while making the most of your time in the outdoors.
