Cartridge- Rifle Logic In Indiana

[RIFLE MAN]

Has anyone wondered or does anyone know why lawmakers passed
legislation allowing the use of shotgun slugs and some highpowered
pistol rounds in Indiana, but does not allow the use of such wonderful
rifle calibers as 30-30 Winchester, 35 Remington, and others that are
relatively close ballistic cousins to what the state already allows for
use in deer hunting?

Sincerely,
Rifle Man

[Dinny]

Has anyone wondered or does anyone know why lawmakers passed
legislation allowing the use of shotgun slugs and some highpowered
pistol rounds in Indiana, but does not allow the use of such wonderful
rifle calibers as 30-30 Winchester, 35 Remington, and others that are
relatively close ballistic cousins to what the state already allows for
use in deer hunting?
Sincerely,
Rifle Man

Rifle Man,
  Welcome to the forum and thanks for posting a topic that will generate alotta discussion. As far as answering your question, I have only one explanation. I think it comes from ignorance and influence. Ignorance of cartridges, guns and their respective capabilities. Ex: a 35 Rem chambered TC Contender is going to have nearly the same range as a lever action rifle chambered the same. Also they believe that pistol shooters are more disciplined and will make better shots avoiding anything that is unsafe. While I don't disagree with this, I also think that there are just as many rifle shooters that have the same good marksmanship and judgment. Influence of politicians by some voters and guns groups could also be a part. Therefore, it comes down to how many votes do you want??
  I have come to one conclusion, be quiet until they want to take away something. Trying to use common sense doesn't always apply with State lawmakers and the DNR.

Thanks, Dinny

[schoolmaster]

The rules don't have be logical. They are made in part by pressure from special interest groups. As long as they keep adding weapons to the legal list that is OK by me. Adding rifle calibered pistols, pistol calibered rifles, smokeless muzzleloaders, and handguns in general have not significantly increased hunting accidents to my knowledge. Any time there is a change there will be those who are for and those who are against it. What is allowed and what is not allowed dependes on who has the ear of the decision makers.

[GRIMJIM]

Dinny, I think you're right on with the ignorance aspect. they don't know any better than what they are told. It is a step in the right direction and hopefully after a while the list will open up to other calibers.

I'm still hoping they follow suit here in Illinois.

[ChrisK]

I think it should be up to the land owner on what he will allow. They keep the rules on state owned property.
Chris Kiefner

[The Commissioner]

I've lived in at least six states.  I've never heard the term 'High Powered Rifle' used as much as I have in Indiana.  Seems Hoosiers have this irrational fear of any centerfire rifle.  That fact the IDNR changed the rules to allow Pistol Cartridge Rifles is amazing to me given this state's attitude about progress.  I'm hoping that the minor increase in cartridge length in the new proposed rules is the 'incrementalism' that will eventually bring the .30-.30 and .35 Remington into the deer woods.

[Dinny]

I've lived in at least six states.  I've never heard the term 'High Powered Rifle' used as much as I have in Indiana.  Seems Hoosiers have this irrational fear of any centerfire rifle.  That fact the IDNR changed the rules to allow Pistol Cartridge Rifles is amazing to me given this state's attitude about progress.  I'm hoping that the minor increase in cartridge length in the new proposed rules is the 'incrementalism' that will eventually bring the .30-.30 and .35 Remington into the deer woods.

I agree!  That's where I first heard it and hear it the most.

Thanks, Dinny