All,

I just became aware of a proposed rule change to R12-4-303 that defines unlawful devices, methods and ammunition for the taking of game in Arizona. Currently R12-4-303 A.1.b reads:

1. An individual shall not use any of the following to take
wildlife:

b. Tracer, armor-piercing, or full-jacketed ammunition designed for military use

The updated rule would read:

1. A person shall not use any of the following to take
wildlife:

b. Tracer, armor-piercing, or full-jacketed bullets that are not designed to expand upon impact

The words "for military use" are being removed.

I have written to the commission highlighting that the proposed change may outlaw some non-expanding handgun bullets that are best suited for the taking of large game (elk, bear, buffalo), including Punch Bullets and Barnes Buster.

Please contact the AZ Game and Fish Dept. before April 15th and ask for additional clarification be included in the rule to allow for the above mentioned bullets. In addition, they need to be educated on the fact that non-expanding bullets are indeed a humane option for the taking of large game, that they are often more humane than the expanding variety.

Contact Information:

All public comments about the proposed rulemaking can be made by the following methods:

E-mail: rulemaking@azgfd.gov, or jcook@azgfd.gov.
U.S. Mail: Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn.: Jay Cook, Regional Supervisor FOR6, 7200 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85207.
Telephone: Jay Cook, Regional Supervisor FOR6, (480) 324-3540.

Additional details:

https://www.azgfd.com/reminder-public-co...-ends-april-15/