Lead Ammunition - The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2026

Written By SACS

The UK government has now published The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2026, which set out restrictions on the use of lead ammunition.  The following link takes you to the legislation.  The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2026

Rifle ammunition

  •  From 1st April 2029, the use and sale of lead bullets for live quarry shooting in calibres 6.17 millimetres (.243) and above will be prohibited.

  •  Small calibre rifles below 6.17 millimetres (.243), including pest control calibres, can still use lead bullets.

  •  From 1 April 2028, the use of lead bullets for outdoor target shooting will be prohibited, except at ranges that meet the required risk management measures.

Shotgun cartridges

  •  From 1 April 2029, the use and sale of lead shot for live quarry shooting will be prohibited.

  •  From 1st April 2029, the use and sale of lead shot for indoor and outdoor recreational target shooting will also be prohibited. There will be exemptions for elite athletes.

Airguns

  • Lead airgun pellets for either target shooting or live quarry shooting can still be used.

Given the dates for the introduction of these laws, people can now manage the transition from lead to non-lead ammunition.  After the dates set out, the use of lead ammunition will largely be banned.

If you have any queries in respect of this, please don’t hesitate to contact the office.

SACS
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