Crossbows OK’d for archery hunting

Illinois hunters may use crossbows during archery hunting seasons. Gov. Bruce Rauner signed House Bill 2893, which repeals restrictions on crossbows during archery seasons, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources said Monday.

Archery seasons for deer and fall turkey begin Oct. 1 in Illinois.

Modern crossbows, which can be high- tech devices more effective than traditional bows, had been restricted primarily to those with handicaps or older hunters. Legalizing broader use of crossbows fits a nationwide trend.