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 to allow rifles.
History and Purpose of the Shotgun-Only Zone
The shotgun-only zone was originally implemented in 1942 as a wildlife-management tool in southern and western Minnesota, where deer populations were historically low. At that time, shotguns—especially smoothbore slug guns—had much shorter effective ranges than rifles, which limited harvest rates and promoted herd recovery (boreal.org, albertleatribune.com).
Back then, deer numbers were sparse, and hunting pressure was far higher, making this restriction a necessary measure. The goal wasn’t safety—it was to reduce harvest and let herds rebuild.
Why Now Is the Time to Allow Rifles
Fast forward to today: deer populations have rebounded, and technological improvements (e.g., rifled barrels, saboted slugs, optics) have made shotgun hunting nearly as lethal at range as rifle hunting (boreal.org, kstp.com).
Meanwhile, southern and western Minnesota are experiencing overabundance, crop damage, and related issues, making increased harvest more desirable (archerytrade.org).
Notably, there’s no evidence rifles are less safe than shotguns. In fact, studies—such as a Pennsylvania study cited by legislators—found that rifles may have smaller danger zones than modern slug shotguns when used properly (mnsenaterepublicans.com, kstp.com). Other states like Wisconsin, which eliminated shotgun-only restrictions in 2013, have not seen increased incidents—in fact, hunting safety has improved (mix108.com).
Declining Hunting Participation Meets Rising Deer
Hunter participation has declined sharply over recent decades. In the year 2000, nearly 399,932 regular firearm deer licenses were sold. By 2018, that number dropped to about 348,806, and continued to drop in 2024 with 315,990 licenses sold by opener weekend, the long-term trend is clear: fewer hunters despite growing deer numbers (MN DNR Historical License Data Spreadsheet). This means there are more deer per hunter — and more opportunity to manage populations effectively.
Allowing rifles can revitalize local hunting interest. The added flexibility and appeal may encourage more residents to buy licenses, reengage with hunting traditions, and enhance wildlife stewardship.
Economic and Local Impacts — From the Woods to the Town
Here’s a real-world anecdote: “I hunt public land. And if the neighboring county allows rifles and mine doesn’t, I’m hunting there—and I’m likely going out to eat there too.” That speaks to economic ripple effects: more hunters means more local spending on gas, gear, lodging, and meals.
Counties that opt-in to allow rifle hunting could see meaningful economic boosts, stronger community engagement, and improved deer management outcomes.
Lyon County Listening Session
In Lyon County, this decision will be up for public discussion Tuesday, September 2, at 6:00 p.m. in the lower level of the Lyon County Law Enforcement Center. The County Board of Commissioners will host a listening session to gather feedback from residents. Commissioners have already shared some preliminary perspectives on the options—those interested can read more in the Marshall Independent’s coverage.