Minnesota Lifts the 80-Year-Old Shotgun-Only Rule: A Local Option for Rifles Returns in 2026
Starting with the 2026 deer season, Minnesota will allow rifle hunting in zones that have, for more than 80 years, been restricted to shotguns only. While counties may choose to maintain shotgun-only rules locally, the statewide restriction ends. This blog explores why this change makes sense — and why many counties should consider opting in […]









