What is the UK Lead ammunition ban, and how will it impact me in 2026?
22-Dec-2025
Chris Cooper
The UK Lead Ammunition Ban refers to the government's July 10, 2025, announcement introducing restrictions on the sale and use of lead-based ammunition to protect wildlife, the environment, and human health. This phased ban targets shotgun shot containing more than 1% lead and rifle bullets with more than 3% lead content, encouraging a shift to non-toxic alternatives such as steel, bismuth, tungsten, or copper. It represents a major change for the shooting community, following the failure of a 2020 voluntary phase-out pledge and enforced under UK REACH regulations to curb lead pollution.
With the ban set to begin in 2026, shooters will need to prepare for upcoming legislation and transitions that could affect ownership, usage, and costs.
Background & details
The ban addresses environmental and health issues: Approximately 7,000 tonnes of toxic lead from ammunition enters UK ecosystems each year, poisoning wildlife such as birds (e.g., red kites, white-tailed eagles) that ingest spent shot, and contaminating soil, waterways, and game meat consumed by humans.
A voluntary commitment by shooting organisations in 2020 to eliminate lead by 2025 fell short, prompting this mandatory measure.
Announced by DEFRA under UK REACH, the restrictions apply to England, Scotland, and Wales (Northern Ireland is exempt), with legislation expected to take effect starting in 2026.
How does the ban work?
The ban is phased to facilitate adaptation, beginning in 2026:
Lead shot (Shotguns): Prohibited after a three-year transition period, likely fully effective around 2029. This covers all shotgun calibres (e.g., 12-gauge, 20-gauge, .410) for live quarry, clay pigeon shooting, and informal activities.
Lead bullets (Rifles): Banned after the same three-year transition, affecting bullets with more than 3% lead for hunting and sports shooting. Small-calibre bullets (e.g., .22 rimfire) for live quarry are exempt.
Airgun pellets: Not in scope, so unaffected in the near term.
Exemptions include military and police use, elite athletes, museum collections, and licensed outdoor ranges with pollution controls (which get a two-year period to adapt). Home-loading of lead ammo components will be restricted post-transition.
The restrictions cover both sale and use, so stockpiling lead ammo for after the deadlines won't be permitted; use up existing stocks legally before full enforcement.
Impacts on shotgun and rifle owners in 2026
As the ban commences in 2026, you'll start feeling the effects through preparatory changes:
Shotgun owners: Expect initial legislation in 2026 requiring planning for non-lead cartridges across game shooting, clays, and other uses. This may involve higher costs for alternatives and compatibility checks; older guns could need choke modifications or proofing for steel shot to prevent damage. Clay grounds and shoots will begin adapting, which might limit options temporarily.
Rifle owners: For calibres affected (those with >3% lead bullets), 2026 marks the start of the transition, potentially requiring re-zeroing and testing non-lead options like copper for deer stalking. Small-calibre users (e.g., .22 for vermin) won't be impacted. BASC is advocating for adjustments to minimise disruptions.
Overall: In 2026, focus on compliance planning; expenses may rise for new ammo and gear. Platforms like Rightgun.uk already list non-lead options and compatible firearms from RFDs to help you prepare ahead.
Important legal context (UK firearms law)
This ban aligns with existing UK firearms regulations:
All shooting activities must comply with Firearm Certificates (FAC) or Shotgun Certificates (SGC) for ownership and use.
Enforced under UK REACH starting in 2026, non-compliance could result in fines or certificate revocations once legislation is active.
It's comprehensive, with no exemptions for non-wetland areas or non-food-chain game. Groups like BASC are lobbying for realistic transitions and support.
Alternatives and advice for owners
To navigate the 2026 start:
Consider non-toxic alternatives: Steel or bismuth for shotguns; copper bullets for rifles. Test for compatibility and performance.
Consult RFDs or organisations like BASC for resources, trials, and updates on sustainable ammo.
On Rightgun.uk, search for "non-lead cartridges" or "copper bullets" to compare dealer listings and prices.
Act early in 2026: Deplete lead stocks legally, and upgrade equipment if necessary for the transition.
Summary
The UK Lead ammunition ban is:
A government-mandated phase-out of toxic lead shot (>1% lead) and bullets (>3% lead), announced in July 2025, starting in 2026 with a three-year transition.
Aimed at protecting wildlife and ecosystems while mandating non-lead alternatives for most shotgun and rifle users.
Phased with exemptions for small calibres, military, and controlled ranges, but affecting live quarry and clay shooting.
An opportunity to prepare in 2026, explore Rightgun.uk for compliant gear and monitor official updates for smooth compliance.
Must read:
