Legal Question in Criminal Law in Virginia

The answer to this question is found in Virginia Code Sections 18.2-308.2. It is unlawful for felons to "knowingly and intentionally possess or transport any firearm or ammunition for a firearm, any stun weapon as defined by § 18.2-308.1, or any explosive material, or to knowingly and intentionally carry about his person, hidden from common observation, any weapon described in subsection A of § 18.2-308."

I think a careful reading of this section reveals that a compound bow would be legal to possess by a felon.

It is important to note that under 15.2-916, the Commonwealth has allowed localities to restrict the use of a compound bow, so it is also prudent to check your county ordinances to make certain such a restriction does not exist. "Any locality may prohibit the shooting of an arrow from a bow in a manner that can be reasonably expected to result in the impact of the arrow upon the property of another without permission from the owner or tenant of such property."