There is some ammunition news worth having on your radar. A phased ban on lead ammunition is on the way, with the main changes landing in 2029 and a smaller one in 2028. There is a good stretch of transition time built in, so the message is simple: no need to panic, but it is worth preparing early.
What changes on 1 April 2029
From the 1st of April 2029, lead shot can no longer be sold or used for live quarry shooting. The same date also ends the sale and use of lead shot for recreational target shooting, indoors and out, with an exemption for elite athletes. For rifle shooters, lead bullets in the larger calibres, 6.17 millimetres and above, can no longer be sold or used for live quarry from that date too.
In practice, that makes the 2028 to 2029 season the last one on lead for a great many people.
What changes earlier, on 1 April 2028
A year before, from the 1st of April 2028, there is a new condition for outdoor target shooting with lead bullets. It will be restricted except at ranges that meet the required risk management measures, so most of the effect there falls on the ranges themselves rather than on you.
What is not changing
A couple of reassuring points. Smaller calibre rifles below 6.17 millimetres, including the calibres many people use for pest control, are not affected by the restrictions. And there are no restrictions at all on lead airgun pellets, for either target shooting or live quarry. So airgun users can carry on as they are.
How to prepare
The good news is you have time. It is well worth trying non-lead loads ahead of the deadlines, so you can test them and re-zero at your own pace rather than in a rush at the last minute. Different guns respond better to different loads, so a little experimenting now pays off later.
If you are not sure what will suit your particular gun, a good gunsmith or your shooting organisation can point you the right way, and our team is always happy to talk it through with you.
Facts checked against the UK REACH restriction and BASC guidance, September 2026.
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