Kandiyohi County debates rifles or shotguns for deer hunting

Commissioners hear arguments from both sides on whether to maintain shotgun-only restriction or allow rifles

Mar. 11, 2026 at 10:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Kandiyohi County Board of Commissioners hosted a listening session to gather input on whether the county should retain the shotgun-only restriction for deer hunting or allow rifles. Twenty-seven of an estimated 70 attendees offered their thoughts, with 18 arguing for rifles and 9 favoring retaining the shotgun restriction.

Why it matters

The debate highlights the ongoing tensions between public safety concerns and hunter preferences, as well as the challenges of balancing wildlife management with local control over hunting regulations.

The details

Those favoring retaining shotguns argued that rifle bullets travel farther, increasing the risk in a county with many hunters and small hunting areas. Rifle advocates argued that rifles are as safe as shotguns when used properly, and that they are more accurate and lethal, resulting in fewer wounded and unrecovered deer. Deer management was another point of difference, with shotgun supporters fearing rifles could lead to overharvesting, especially in areas with low deer numbers.

  • The Minnesota Legislature in 2025 eliminated the state's shotgun-only zone for deer hunting, but counties in that zone may adopt an ordinance to remain shotgun-only.
  • The Kandiyohi County Board of Commissioners hosted the listening session on Monday, March 11, 2026.
  • The commissioners will likely take up the issue at their regular board meeting this coming Tuesday, March 18, 2026.

The players

Kandiyohi County Board of Commissioners

The county governing body that is considering whether to maintain the shotgun-only restriction or allow rifles for deer hunting.

Gene East

A Spicer resident who argued for retaining the shotgun restriction, citing concerns about safety and inexperienced hunters.

Robert Meyer

A Belgrade resident and firearm safety instructor who argued that rifles are as safe as shotguns when used properly.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Let education catch up with the firearms.”

— Gene East, Spicer resident

“Rifle or shotgun doesn't mean a thing. It is the person behind it and how they are taught.”

— Robert Meyer, Firearm safety instructor

What’s next

The Kandiyohi County Board of Commissioners will likely take up the issue at their regular board meeting on Tuesday, March 18, 2026. If they want to retain the shotgun-only restriction, they would need to hold a public hearing before adopting an ordinance.

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing public safety concerns with hunter preferences and wildlife management goals. The outcome will have implications for deer hunting regulations and enforcement across the region.