New DEC turkey hunting regulation changes minimum shot size from #8 to #9

The New York State DEC is updating a turkey hunting regulation that changes the minimum shot size from #8 to #9.

Officials say this development blossoms in the wake of a public comment period earlier this year. According to the DEC, this change was necessitated by advances in shotshell technology.

Previously, shot sizes smaller than #8 (larger number indicates smaller size) were prohibited because they lacked the kinetic energy downrange to humanely harvest a turkey.

Modern shotshells use heavier metals such as tungsten alloy, tungsten-iron, or bismuth, maintain enough energy to humanely harvest a turkey, and perform as well or better than many traditional turkey loads.

Changes to shot size restrictions apply to both fall and spring seasons and are currently in effect as of September 1, 2022.

Image courtesy via the New York State DEC.