8 gauge approved for use in Arizona starting July 1, 2013

[Phil C]

Some of you are aware that I have been working with the Arizona Game and Fish Department for the last 3 years trying to get the gauge restriction lifted, this would allow me use of an 8 gauge for hunting in Arizona. Today I came back from training our English Pointers to find the following email.


Hello Phil,
Just a quick note to let you know that the Governor’s Regulatory Review Council (GRRC) approved the Article 3 rule making; R12-4-303 is amended to remove the shotgun gauge restriction.

YAY!!!

Please note, the new rules become effective on July 1, 2013, until that time it remains unlawful to use your 8 gauge to hunt.

Thank you so much for your patience and kindness; it has been a pleasure to correspond with you!!

Take care!
Sincerely,

Celeste :?)

Celeste Cook |Arizona Game and Fish Department | Rules and Risk Unit

5000 W. Carefree Highway | Phoenix | AZ 85086

I am very excited and will start hunting in Arizona for Predators starting July 1 and will do my best to harvest game when ever possible with one of my 8 gauges. I recently acquired a Parker 8 gauge on a 7 frame to keep my W C Scott and Son company. Brad Bachelder has my Parker and it will not be ready until possibly Fall. In any case I will do my best to use the Parker to harvest a turkey in Arizona this fall.
I also want to commend Celeste Cook with the AZ Game and Fish for her diligence in keeping me informed through out this whole process.
Happy in AZ,
Phil