Shooting a high powered rifle at a pit

[Buck 120 32]

Is it legal to have a high powered rifle at a pit or transport one to it when it is not hunting season? Is there any possibility of being accused of hunting out of season by merely taking it to a pit?

I had the sight changed on my gun and want to sight it in as well as take the kids out for some target practice.

Thanks.

[Guest Big Moose]

You can carry your gun to a pit anytime you want it's your rifle and your right to bare arms.

Screw em I've never had any problems

Don't shoot any deer and you won't be accused of hunting.

(Unless the deer are attacking you then let em have it,You gotta watch those deer they are hungry)

[crisop 65]

all i do is leave it locked and in the back seat at al times unless at the pit and have yet to have a problem

[Guest Big Moose]

How did you make out shootin' any troubles?

[Some Old Guy 968]

MNR Answer:

The MNR encourages hunters to accurately sight-in their rifles before the big game season begins to prevent unnecessary suffering, wounding and spoilage of wild game animals. The MNR co-hosts a rifle sight-in at the Nolalu rifle range in mid-September each year where Conservation Officers are available to answer hunting questions and an armourer is on site to examine and assist hunters in properly setting up their weapons.

So the answer to your question is yes, it is legal to transport (have in possession) your high powered rifle to a pit outside of the big game season, but only if it is not for the purpose of hunting. BUT, there is a chance you could be accused of hunting out of season just by the mere possession however.

Under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, the mere possession of a firearm in an area that is usually inhabited by wildlife, is proof, in the absence of evidence to the contrary that a person was hunting. (FWCA Sec. 109)

To avoid coming under scrutiny by Conservation Officers follow the following tips:

Admit to an Officer that you have a high powered rifle in your possession.

The weapon should be encased and not readily accessible until you get to the pit.

Have targets with you to show the officer.

If possible, travel from home directly to the pit and back again.

Typically hunters will take their big guns with them on a day of grouse hunting (pre moose/deer). If the high power is sitting on the seat next to the driver with ammunition close at hand, what is the officer to think?

Make sure you sight-in at a safe location (i.e., you have a safe/secure backstop away from other buildings/people/traffic) and that you have permission to be there. Many gravel pits are on private property and may be signed. Ensure you are not trespassing.

Pick up your litter/targets afterwards. Some popular gravel pits end up becoming small garbage dumps because hunters leave assorted targets and debris behind.

Finally, make sure there are no local bylaws in place prohibiting the activity. For example, some municipalities prohibit discharge of firearms in certain areas.

Reference: Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act 1998 Section 109

[Guest Big Moose]

And by targets that doesn't mean a case of beer.I'd have to agree with you Roger most of the pits are like garbage dumps with trash and crap laying everywhere.In fact I usually go to garbage dumps to sight in or bag a bald eagle or two they taste great and have lots of meat for a bird they taste kinda like snowy owl or trumpeter swan.haha

[Some Old Guy 968]

Hi Big Moose.

That response was emailed to me by Ross from the MnR! They answer the questions on this board I just post the answers.

Ummm Would you like me to edit the FUNNIN' you were making about the eagles and swans?

Roger

[Guest Big Moose]

AHHH Yah maybe,But they can check my freezer if they would like it's pretty bare,Actually it's embarassing how little wild meat there is with no kills from last year ouch.It hurts.

[Traquer 0]

Thanks for getting that MNR response for us Roger ... I've always wondered about the legality of it. Essentially have everything you need for sighting in and play it safe and you'll be ok. That's easy.

[Buck 120 32]

Sighting went great. Beautiful day, lots of ice. Went to the pit mentioned on this board past escape lake road.

Now I must buy more ammo LOL.