Ask a wildlife manager
By Ron Day, law enforcement branch chief, Arizona Game and Fish Department

Each year before the archery deer hunt, wildlife managers are asked the same basic question many times in different ways: “Can I carry a firearm while archery hunting?” The answer is—it depends on the type of hunt.

Archery-only or muzzleloader hunts: You may not possess a firearm, even if you have a concealed weapons permit. It does not matter if the firearm is visible or concealed. When the Arizona Game and Fish Commission designates an archery-only or muzzleloader season, these restrictions are put into place, as shown in the descriptions of these hunts in our hunting regulations.

Rifle hunts: Almost all of our rifle hunts are described as “general” hunts. In the notes section of the hunt description, you will find a section titled “Lawful Methods of Take.” Any or all of the weapon types found in this section for that species may be carried or used during one of these hunts. For example, during a general deer or elk hunt, a person may hunt with archery equipment and carry a centerfire handgun. Both methods are lawful during these hunts. But keep in mind that centerfire rifles are lawful too, and this is what most people are carrying.

HAM hunts: These are designed for handguns, archery, and/or muzzleloaders. Since all three weapon types are legal for taking game in this hunt structure, an individual may lawfully carry any or all three weapons. That means an archery hunter may lawfully carry a centerfire handgun while hunting during a HAM hunt.

Another common question is, “Can I bring a gun to camp but not take it with me hunting?” The answer is “yes.” It does not matter what type of hunt you are participating in—you may have a firearm in camp or in your vehicle. But here’s a hint for those of you who keep a firearm in your vehicle: If you are running a spotlight, you may not possess an accessible method of take (firearm, archery equipment, muzzleloader). Keep it out of reach, or expect to be cited.

These answers should help you determine whether you can carry a gun while you are out enjoying the wild places of our state. Keep safe, and happy hunting.