Alligators may only be dispatched with a Bangsticks must remain unloaded until the alligator is restrained. No alligator may be dispatched until it is restrained by a line. Once the alligator has been restrained, it may be dispatched with legal equipment. A good rule of thumb is to dispatch the animal when it no longer thrashes after tugging on the restraining line 2-3 times. This will ensure a still and safe target for dispatching with the bangstick. To safely and humanely dispatch the alligator aim for the center of the spine directly behind the skull plate. Do not shoot through the skull plate. The skull of an alligator is very dense bone and fragments may ricochet. The brain, which is about the size of a walnut, is located 2-3 inches behind the eyes directly between the ear flaps. A properly placed projectile will sever the spinal cord and brain causing instant death. Never attempt to dispatch an alligator by shooting into the chest cavity. The use of safety glasses is recommended when discharging any bangstick.
Bangsticks
After the alligator has been properly restrained, remove the bangstick from the case, place all persons in a safe location, and safely load the bangstick. Extreme caution should be used when handling any bangstick to insure that the safety pin is not removed until fully prepared to dispatch the alligator. A loaded bangstick should always be held over the side of the boat and pointed away from the boat. A bangstick should always be discharged below the water surface to reduce potential for aerial dispersal of bullet or bone fragments. While gentle pressure is kept on the restraining line to hold the head and neck slightly below the surface of the water, aim for the very center of the neck (directly between the two center rows of scutes) at an angle slightly towards the base of the head and properly discharge the bangstick. The alligator will immediately relax and begin to sink
Picture and text copied from mdwfp