Gents,

As I indicated in another thread, I checked out the issue of tracking a wounded deer after dark and shooting it. The only wildlife officer I was able to contact was here in Ohio, so I can't necessarily speak for other states. According to him, it is perfectly legal to use a light to track a wounded deer in the dark. However, (and I admit that I was wrong here) he stated that it is illegal to carry a loaded gun while doing so.

But, before we all chip in to buy NY a round of beer for being right, keep this in mind. The officer was clearly a bit uncomfortable when he stated that carrying a gun and shooting the deer under these circumstances wouldalways get someone in hot water. In fact, he finally offered his opinion that the issue is a "gray area," and it would depend on the particular law officer on the scene and the specificset of circumstances.
Dunno if this settles anything other than to indicate that even some game wardens don't see everylaw in black and white. Also, as i indicated, the laws, and local game wardens' interpretations of them, will likely vary from state to state.

Merry Christmas!!