PIERRE, S.D. – A proposal by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission would allow for the use of muzzleloader handguns for big game hunting. The proposal would also set the standards for muzzleloader handguns and remove the factory-rated requirement that was set in rule.

The proposal calls for a minimum standard of .50 caliber bullets when big game hunting as the vast majority of loads using smaller calibers do not meet the standard currently in place for foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle.

The proposal also changes the term “factory rated” to “rated.” As currently written, the use of the term “factory rated” suggests that hand loaded ammunition is prohibited.

The GFP Commission will consider the adoption of this proposal on June 7 in Aberdeen. To comment in person, the public hearing will be held June 7 in Aberdeen at 2 p.m. CDT. Individuals can also provide written comments on proposals by sending them to 523 E. Capitol Ave., Pierre, SD 57501, or online at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. To be included in the public record and to be considered by the Commission, comments must include a full name and city of residence and meet the submission deadline of 72 hours before the public hearing (not including the day of the public hearing).

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