Quick Answer
Yes, in Ohio, you can use straight wall ammunition for deer hunting.
Ohio’s Straight Wall Ammunition Law
Ohio law requires rifles used for deer hunting to use straight wall cartridges that meet specific requirements. These cartridges must have a case length of 1.8 inches or less and have a maximum overall cartridge length of 2.26 inches. This rule applies to rifles chambered in straight-walled cartridges such as the 357 Magnum, 444 Marlin, 45-70 Government, and others.
Other States with Straight Wall Ammunition Requirements
Several states have similar laws requiring straight wall ammunition for deer hunting. These states include:
- Alabama, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Arkansas, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Indiana, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Kentucky, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Michigan, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Mississippi, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Oklahoma, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Tennessee, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- West Virginia, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
- Wisconsin, where the maximum overall cartridge length is 1.8 inches
Choosing the Right Straight Wall Ammunition
When choosing a straight wall cartridge for deer hunting, consider the range and the type of hunting you will be doing. For shorter ranges, a lighter bullet weight such as 170 grains may be sufficient, while for longer ranges, a heavier bullet weight such as 240 grains may be needed. Always check the local regulations and ensure that the cartridge you choose meets the requirements.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.