Lead ammunition restrictions – your questions answered

📣 Upcoming Lead Ammunition Ban: What It Means for Rural Shooters and Sportsmen

Published: July 2025 | Author: [Richard Smith] | Rural Sports Blog

The Government’s recent announcement on 10 July 2025 regarding lead ammunition has sent ripples through the shooting community. With plans to introduce legislation by summer 2026 and a full ban coming into force in 2029 after a three-year transition period, it's vital for all rural sports participants—whether you're a shotgunner, rifle shooter, or airgun enthusiast—to understand what lies ahead.

Below, we break down the key takeaways and what they mean for your sport, equipment, and shooting practices.

🔒 When Will the Lead Ban Come Into Force?

The ban is scheduled to become law in 2026, with a transition period lasting until 2029. This gives shooters time to adjust, phase out their lead ammunition, and explore suitable alternatives.

🌍 Who Will Be Affected?

The legislation will apply to England, Scotland, and Wales. Shooters in Northern Ireland are not affected by this announcement.

 Shotgun Shooters

The ban affects all shotgun calibres—from 12b to .410—with no calibre-based exemptions at this stage.

❗ Key Impacts:

• Blanket ban – regardless of whether you shoot over water, moorland, farmland, or clay grounds.

• Self-consumption of game – still covered under the restriction.

• Clay shooting – affected at all levels, from personal use to commercial grounds.

• Stockpiling – not permitted for future use; both sale and use of lead will be prohibited.

• Exemptions – include military, police, elite athletes, museums, and certain managed target ranges.

Rifle Shooters

Only calibres 6.17mm and above, including .243 and larger, are affected. .22 rimfire and similar small calibres remain unaffected.

❗ Key Impacts:

• Live quarry – no lead ammo for .243+ calibres, even if for personal food use.

• Copper-coated lead bullets – not permitted under the new rules.

• Target shooters – outdoor ranges must have lead recovery measures; indoor use of lead is banned.

• Reloading – home-loaded lead ammo will be restricted like factory rounds.

Airgun Shooters

Good news for airgunners: Airguns are not in scope of this restriction.

The Government confirmed that airgun pellets—and small calibre bullets used for live quarry shooting—are exempt. That means target shooting and pest control with air rifles can continue using lead-based ammo.

🔍 What's Next?

While this timeline gives us a window to prepare, the shift away from lead is both inevitable and approaching fast. Non-toxic alternatives are available and becoming more accessible each year—but testing, training, and transition take time.

🧭 How Should You Prepare?

• Audit your ammunition – take stock of what you have and begin phasing out lead where needed.

• Stay informed – follow updates from organisations like BASC, CA, and your local shooting clubs.

• Test non-lead options – start trialling alternatives now for a smoother transition.

• Support your sport – continue to advocate for rural sports while ensuring sustainability and compliance with changing laws.

At Rural Sports, we’re committed to keeping our community informed and equipped. Whether you're adjusting your kit, seeking lead-free cartridge options, or need support finding compliant gear, we’re here to help.

📩 For personalised advice or product enquiries, contact us today.

#RuralShooting #LeadBan #SustainableShooting #ClayPigeon #GameShooting #DeerStalking #Airgunning #UKShootingSports #NonLeadAmmo