The principle reason they don't allow higher powered rifles during the deer season is simply the huge number of them that would be in the woods at one time , too great a risk of accidental shootings for folks not used to shooting them . In the Southern Tier where I live the hilly terrain limits most shots to 150 yards or less , but on flat ground the bullet could conceivably travel for a mile or more .

There's talk of IDNR allowing "cowboy" rifles such as lever actions as early as next year due to increased popular demand from the hunting public . Opposition to rifles is generally from the non-hunting section of the public , and is usually not based on fact . Our new director is studying the issue before making reccomendations to the Legislature . Don't get your hopes up for anything bigger than a 30-30 or 45-70 anytime soon though . Between now and then you could always buy a pistol chambered for the caliber of your choice within the allowed parameters .