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Which weapons are commonly used for big-game hunting?

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A person wearing an orange vest and holding a shotgun walks through tall grass with a hunting dog ahead in a field with scattered trees. — hunting Bird hunting with a dog.

For big-game hunting, high-powered rifles are the most common weapons used. Bolt-action rifles, which are efficient and reliable, remain the standard choice for many hunters. In certain regions, regulations may require the use of a shotgun firing a slug when hunting specific big game, such as deer.12

While firearms are the primary tools, bows and arrows are also utilized for big-game hunting. In the United States, bow hunting for deer has become a popular practice with dedicated seasons, and other types of big game have also been successfully taken using archery equipment.1

Regardless of the weapon chosen, ethical hunting practices emphasize the importance of responsible conduct to ensure that the quarry is given a fair chance and that the harvest remains under control.3