Transition period starts next summer to ban lead shots

This change means that it will be an offence to use shotgun cartridges loaded with lead shot for game shooting from the 2029/2030 season onwards. This applies in England, Scotland and Wales. 

Countryside Alliance explained that after a lengthy consultation process and with clear influence from the recent EU draft implementing act covering lead ammunition, there can be no surprises that a ban is being imposed, but the cartridge manufacturing industry will face a challenge in meeting full demand from the clay and game shooting sectors by summer 2029 due to factors beyond the control of the manufacturers – global conflicts, supply chain disruption and more. 

‘Important step for the future of shooting’

Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, said: “This is an important step for the future of shooting, which will benefit the countryside and rural economy. The Alliance has long advocated a move away from lead ammunition, which is necessary and beneficial. Alternatives are now available for nearly every gun for nearly every purpose. 

“We have always argued for a single transition date and do have concerns about the practical implications of a three-year transition for all uses of shotgun cartridges. Bringing in a ban on lead shot in advance of the Health and Safety Executive’s recommendations and the EU transition process would be challenging for ammunition manufacturers who are already having to cope with much increased demand for military ammunition”.  

Rifle ammunition for calibres of .243 and above will also be subject to restrictions: lead bullets for live quarry will be banned after the same three-year transition, i.e., from summer 2029.  

For target shooting, lead bullets are only permissible if the range adheres to certain lead recovery standards. Ranges must have adequate recovery measures in place after a two-year transition. Ammunition for rifles smaller than .243 calibre and for air weapons will not be restricted. 

Lead shot will be banned for use in clay target shooting after a three-year transition. A select few elite-level clay shooters have been granted a derogation, meaning they can train with lead ammunition in order to compete at international tournaments. 

Read more about the government’s proposed lead ammunition ban here. 

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