In a bold move to enhance the hunting experience for enthusiasts across the state, the Ohio Rifle and Pistol Association (ORPA) is taking the lead in advocating for the allowance of rifles in deer hunting. This initiative comes as part of ORPA’s commitment to promoting responsible and safe firearm use for hunting while expanding the options available to Ohio hunters.
With the support of its members and in collaboration with other stakeholders in the hunting community, ORPA aims to bring about a positive change in the regulations governing deer hunting in Ohio. The association believes that allowing rifles will provide hunters with a more versatile tool, contributing to a safer and more effective hunting experience.
Key Points of the Initiative:
Safety First: ORPA emphasizes the importance of responsible firearm use and that hunters are ultimately responsible for every shot they take. This initiative would request the Ohio Division of Natural Resources (ODNR) to initiate a study to determine what safety measures would be necessary for using rifles during the deer firearm season in Ohio.
Support from the Hunting Community: ORPA has engaged hunters on social media and with other hunting organizations to garner support for this initiative. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for the prospect of using rifles in deer hunting.
Economic Benefits: Ohio deer hunters already contribute $753 million to the state economy annually and this change is only expected to increase this amount through higher license sales, increased tourism, and greater revenue for local businesses.
ODNR Advocacy: ORPA is actively engaging with ODNR to present the case for allowing rifles in deer hunting. The association is committed to working within the legal framework to bring about positive change.
ORPA invites all interested parties, including hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts to support this initiative by attending ODNR district open houses in March asking for this change. The association believes that by modernizing hunting regulations, Ohio can join the other midwestern states in allowing rifles for deer hunting in a safe and efficient manner.
For more information on the Ohio Rifle and Pistol Association and its efforts to allow rifles in deer hunting, please visit WWW.ORPA.NET or contact Rob Beckman, ORPA Hunting Director at HUNTING@ORPA.NET
The Ohio Rifle and Pistol Association (ORPA) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that works to promote the education and safety of shooting sports in Ohio. ORPA encourages and sponsors youth and adult training and participation in local, regional, and national level competitions for a variety of firearm disciplines and outdoor activities including hunting.
