5.10 Washington Laws and Regulations For Ammunition
These rules and regulations apply to all shotgun hunters.
Waterfowl hunters must use non-toxic ammunition only.
Lead shot is not legal for waterfowl hunting. Some state
and federal lands may require non-toxic shot for upland
birds. Violations of non-toxic shot rules incur a special
$1,000 criminal penalty and suspension
of small game hunting privileges.
Shotguns used for upland bird and waterfowl hunting may
not hold more than three shotshells. Such guns must be
plugged.
Shotguns used for deer and bear hunting must use slugs
or #1 or larger buckshot. Neither 28-gauge nor .410 shotguns
are legal for deer and/or bear hunting. Other big game
may be hunted with 10-gauge or 12-gauge shotguns using
slugs.
Forest grouse may not be hunted with centerfire rifle
or handgun ammunition .24 or larger or with shotguns containing
slugs or buckshot during modern firearm deer or elk seasons
unless appropriate deer or elk tags are on the hunter’s
person.