Overview

The UK government (via Defra and UK REACH) has announced plans to restrict the sale and use of lead ammunition (for shotguns and rifles) for most outdoor shooting, including clay target shooting. The restrictions are being phased in over a multi-year transition period. The CPSA is actively engaging with regulators, other shooting bodies and the gun trade to protect our sport’s interests and to help members adapt.

This page answers key questions, summarises the facts and shows a timeline of what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is this happening?
A: Lead is a toxic heavy metal. When lead shot or bullets are fired, fragments and particles may enter soil, water, wildlife or be ingested by birds or animals. Environmental groups and government regulators are concerned that uncontrolled use of lead ammunition poses risks to ecosystems, wildlife and potentially to humans via game consumption.

Q: What exactly is being banned or restricted?
A: Under the decision published by UK REACH, the use of lead shot containing more than 1 % lead and bullets containing more than 3 % lead will be prohibited for outdoor shooting uses in England, Scotland and Wales. The decision includes specific derogations and exemptions (for example, elite athletes, indoor ranges, military, police) which must be consulted in the formal regulations.

Q: Will clay pigeon shooting be affected?
A: Yes. The announced restrictions will apply to all ‘target shooting’ outdoors, which includes established clay grounds, simulated game  days and even use of traps on private land.

Q: Will I be forced to throw away all my lead cartridges?
A: During the transition period, you may continue to use existing lead ammunition insofar as allowed by the rules. Once restrictions fully take effect for a given use, both sale and use of lead ammunition over the specified thresholds will be prohibited. Collectors who hold the appropriate license may retain lead ammunition for collection purposes.

Q: When do the restrictions take effect — how long is the transition?
A: Legislation will be introduced in the summer of 2026, followed by a 3-year transition period. That means the full restrictions will come into force in 2029.

The HSE (in December 2024) had proposed a 5-year transition for lead shot cartridges. The government’s new plan shortens that to 3 years.

Q: Can I ‘stockpile’ lead ammunition before the ban?
A: You may continue to use or store lead ammunition during the transition, but the legislation is expected to cover sale and use once fully in force. Stockpiling to circumvent the ban will not be permitted.

Q: What alternatives exist to lead shot / bullets?
A: Non-lead options already exist, including steel, bismuth, tungsten, copper, and other alloys. However, their performance, cost, ballistic behaviour, availability and compatibility with existing firearms (barrels, chokes) vary significantly. Part of the challenge is ensuring the alternatives are safe, effective and acceptable in competition.
 

Q: What can CPSA members do now?

1. Be aware of developments: read government/Defra consultations, CPSA updates, HSE notices, and other shooting-industry positions.
2. Begin trials now with non-lead loads that suit your guns and disciplines (break in, patterning, safety).
3. Engage with CPSA’s working groups or consultations, raise members’ concerns about cost, supply, performance, fairness, exemptions.
4. Plan finances and equipment transitions (e.g. purchasing non-lead loads, or gradually reducing reliance on lead).

 

Sources:

UK REACH restriction for lead in ammunition, 27 June 2025 - GOV.UK

Lead ammunition restrictions - your questions answered - BASC

Toxic lead ammunition banned to protect Britain’s countryside - GOV.UK

 

 

Email us: info@cpsa.co.uk

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