Hunting methods
Deer hunting in Victoria is typically conducted using two traditional and effective methods:
- Stalking which typically involves a hunter pursuing deer on foot with or without the aid of gundogs or deer hunting dogs (excluding Hog Deer); and
- Hunting Sambar Deer with hounds
The minimum firearm calibres and bow draw weights are detailed in the table below.
Firearm/bow | Sambar, Rusa and Red Deer | Hog, Fallow and Chital Deer |
|---|---|---|
Centrefire rifle | A minimum calibre of .270" (6.85 mm) with a minimum projectile weight of 130 grains (8.45 grams). | A minimum calibre of .243" (6.17 mm) with a minimum projectile weight of 80 grains (5.18 grams). |
Muzzle-loading rifle | A minimum calibre of .45" (11.45 mm) with a minimum projectile weight of 230 grains (14.91 grams). | A minimum calibre of .38" (9.65 mm) with a minimum projectile weight of 200 grains (12.96 grams). |
Long, recurve and compound bows | A minimum draw weight of 50 lbs (22.5 kilograms), using an arrow fitted with a broad-head having a combined minimum weight of 400 grains (26 grams) and at least two cutting blades. | A minimum draw weight of 45 lbs (20 kilograms), using an arrow fitted with a broad-head having a combined minimum weight of 350 grains (22.5 grams) and at least two blades. |
Cross bow | A minimum draw weight of 150 lbs (68 kilograms), using a bolt fitted with a broad-head having a total minimum weight of 400 grains (26 grams) and at least two blades. | A minimum draw weight of 120 lbs (54.4 kilograms), using a bolt fitted with a broad-head having a total minimum weight of 350 grains (22.5 grams) and at least two blades. |
Smooth-bore firearms | A minimum bore of 20 and a maximum bore of 12, using a single solid projectile with a minimum weight of 245 grains (15.88 grams) and the firearm must be fitted with either: a front and rear iron sight (other than a beaded sight or sights); or a telescopic sight; or a reflex sight. | |
