bow hunting for moose and grouse at same time

I drew a cow bow tag. I am unclear about whether I could also have a shot gun, with me at the same time for birds. I would carry 6 or 71/2 shot only. No slugs or buck shot. Will be hunting with an atv as I can't walk far. As long as the gun is in a scabbard and unloaded till , I want to use it to harvest a bird. Is the cross bow legal, carried out of its case and cocked but no arrow on the string, while on the bike. I would also not shoot, from the bike. There is a lot of questions , I realize. I have been unable to get a copy of the regs, since the mnr , cut back. What are your thoughts. I don't need problems from the warden. Thanks old243

I would apply to the Ministry for a disabled hunter permit, which would allow you to shoot from the bike.

I won't comment on your question as I'm not 100% sure and don't want to lead you astray, but regarding the hunting regs - google 'Ontario hunting regulations' and the current regs will be the first result and you can view them online.

From what you describe, you are OK. Yes, you can carry a xbow with no bolt.
It's not considered loaded until the bolt is on the rail.

legalities aside one would have to question the wisdom of trusting a safety to prevent a misfire from a cocked crossbow on a bouncing ATV. Risk of injury and serious damage to the crossbow would have me thinking not the best idea.

I recently asked this question to the MNRF and was told by them that while bow hunting I cannot be in possession of a rifle or shotgun, so in Ontario the answer would be 'no'. As for the rest of your question, I have no clue.

in the regs on pg 34 I quote "when hunting moose during a bow only season you may use or carry only bow hunting equipment ,you may not carry a rifle or shotgun for hunting other species".

That's one of those grey areas.....if the shotgun is in a case on the machine, he isn't carrying or using it while moose hunting.
We bird hunt all the time during a bow only moose hunt. Just don't carry the bow and shotgun at the same time.
This question is best answered by the CO where you hunt.

I checked with mnr, their opinion was it would not be legal , to have a shotgun , cased and a bow at the same time , while bow hunting moose. He suggested leaving the bow and licence in camp , if out partridge hunting. To avoid suspicion. I would question , Not having my tag with me , as others in the group , might harvest a moose and require the tag to be used immediately , at the site of the kill. There are too many grey areas , I think I will just stick to moose bow hunting. Thanks to everyone who replied. old243

Buy small game tips for your bow and practice with your bow so you can hit birds. Easiest solution in my mind.

I don't think there is any problem having a cocked crossbow with no bolt in it. I wouldn't though because the chances of it dry firing go up. I think there is always enough time to draw the bow if you see something or draw it before you start walking.

Bring a decent sling shot for grouse.

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Originally Posted by Kurtis1234

Buy small game tips for your bow and practice with your bow so you can hit birds. Easiest solution in my mind.

I don't think there is any problem having a cocked crossbow with no bolt in it. I wouldn't though because the chances of it dry firing go up. I think there is always enough time to draw the bow if you see something or draw it before you start walking.

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i used my x bow for deer this afternoon. walked past a grouse and nerves got the best of me, thump went the bow and i instantly regretted a 10 dollar decision. archery aint cheap, especially when you are small gaming :P

I was stopped by CO 2 years ago archery hunting moose. I was on my way back to bike after following a fresh set of moose tracks, she was there waiting for me. We had a chat she checked my tag and license asked about the gun case on the bike. I confirmed it was my .410. All was good. She said as it was at the moment it was encased and being transported, if I had been carrying it along with my bow there would have been an infraction. So according to my experience with that particular CO, encased on the bike is legal. However when you stop and pull it out to shoot a grouse and your bow is not legally encased, you are likely committing an infraction. Sling shot is a good idea, drop a pinch of #6 shot in and let it fly. Will increase your chances of making a kill