Can you hunt with a crossbow?

❌ In France, it’s prohibited

The answer is clear: no, hunting with a crossbow is forbidden in France.
Why? Because crossbows are not legally classified as weapons, so they cannot be used for hunting, even if they are very powerful.

🏹 What about bow hunting?

Bow hunting is allowed, but bows and crossbows are not regulated by the same federation.
As a result, the approval for bow hunting did not include crossbows, even though many wish this would change.

🌍 In other countries, it’s possible

Spain: yes, if the crossbow is registered as a weapon and has a serial number
USA and Canada: crossbow hunting is very common and regulated by local laws

💡 In short: if you want to hunt with a crossbow, you’ll have to go abroad… or wait and hope the law changes one day!

Updated on: 13/06/2025