Handguns: Rules and Regulations

These rules and regulations apply to all hunters using handguns.

• It is against both state and federal laws for a licensed dealer to sell a handgun to anyone under 21 years of age.
• Centerfire handguns approved for big game hunting, except cougar, must be a minimum of .24 caliber and have a minimum barrel length of four inches per manufacturer's specification. Cougar may be hunted with a .22 caliber centerfire handgun..
• WDFW recommends that you check with the Wildlife program at 360-902-2515 if you have any doubt about the use of a particular handgun for big game hunting.