New York Crossbow Hunting Laws 2025: A New Era Begins

Get the latest on New York's crossbow regulations for the 2024-2025 hunting season. Discover the groundbreaking new legislation awaiting the governor's signature that could allow crossbow use for the full archery season, revolutionizing NY crossbow hunting. Stay informed and get ready for the changes.

A major shift is on the horizon for New York's hunting community. In a landmark move, the New York State Legislature has passed a bill that could significantly expand crossbow hunting opportunities across the state. This guide provides the most current 2024-2025 regulations and breaks down the exciting new law that could redefine the future of hunting in the Empire State.

The Game-Changer: Full Archery Season for Crossbows Awaits Signature

In June 2025, New York lawmakers overwhelmingly approved a bill to authorize the use of crossbows for big game hunting during the entire archery season. For years, hunters were restricted to using crossbows only during the last 10-14 days of the early archery season. Now, this long-awaited legislation (A.8330/S.6360) is on the governor's desk, awaiting a final signature to become law.

If signed, the new law will introduce three revolutionary changes:

• Full Season Access: Crossbows will be legal wherever and whenever traditional bows are permitted for taking big game.
• Removal of Restrictions: The burdensome requirements for minimum limb width (17 inches) and maximum draw weight (200 lbs) will be eliminated. Only the 100 lb minimum draw weight will remain.
• Simplified Licensing: Hunters will need an archery privilege to hunt with a crossbow, not the muzzleloading privilege as previously required.

This change represents a massive victory for sportsmen and sportswomen, making hunting more accessible for people of all ages and physical abilities.

Current NYSDEC Crossbow Regulations (2024-2025 Season)

Until the new legislation is officially signed into law, all hunters must adhere to the existing regulations set forth by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC).

To legally hunt with a crossbow in New York during the 2024-2025 season, your equipment must meet these specifications:

• Draw Weight: A minimum of 100 pounds and a maximum of 200 pounds.
• Minimum Limb Width: 17 inches when un-cocked.
• Minimum Overall Length: 24 inches from the butt of the stock to the front of the limbs.
• Arrows/Bolts: Must be a minimum of 14 inches long (not including the broadhead).
• Safety: The trigger mechanism must have a functioning safety.

Remember, under the current rules, you must possess a muzzleloading privilege to use a crossbow during any muzzleloader season or the designated portions of the early bowhunting seasons.

Ballista Crossbows: Be Ready for the New Era of NY Hunting

The upcoming changes in New York law are set to open up incredible new opportunities, and Ballista is here to ensure you're perfectly equipped. With the removal of outdated size and weight restrictions, our entire range of high-performance crossbows will be ready for action in the Empire State.

Whether you're a seasoned archer or a new hunter looking for an accessible and powerful option, Ballista crossbows deliver the accuracy, power, and reliability you need. Our innovative designs and superior craftsmanship make them the ideal choice for pursuing deer and bear in New York's diverse landscapes.

Explore the Ballista collection today and be prepared to take full advantage of New York's exciting new crossbow hunting season!