The UK Government has confirmed a new restriction under UK REACH targeting the use and sale of lead in ammunition. The decision, issued on 27 June 2025 by Defra, introduces phased bans on lead shot and bullets due to significant risks to human health and the environment. The policy will affect manufacturers, suppliers, and users across the supply chain, with compliance deadlines set at two and three years depending on use category.
Health and environmental risks drive regulation
Lead, a toxic heavy metal, has long been used in ammunition but poses serious threats. According to the UK Health and Safety Executive, over the next 20 years, continued use of lead ammunition could release 139,000 tonnes into the environment, endangering wildlife and potentially harming children through the consumption of game meat.
The restriction applies to shot with ≥1% lead by weight and projectiles (excluding shot) with ≥3% lead. Both live quarry and target shooting fall under scope. Exceptions include certain indoor uses, police and military applications, and supply to elite athletes training for Olympic-level events.
Key compliance deadlines and labelling requirements
The restriction introduces two main transition periods:
- 2 years for outdoor shooting ranges to implement risk-reduction measures for continued use of lead bullets in target shooting.
- 3 years for the full ban on placing lead shot and certain lead bullets on the market.
Additionally, from 2028, large calibre bullets (≥6.17 mm) sold for target shooting must carry a clear label stating: “Must not be used for live quarry shooting.” This applies both to physical and online sales channels.
Industry-wide impact beyond ammunition makers
The new restriction has implications for:
- Ammunition manufacturers: Required to transition to alternative materials like steel and copper.
- Retailers and distributors: Must monitor stock compliance and enforce labelling rules.
- Shooting ranges and clubs: Must meet documentation and risk-management obligations or lose the ability to host lead-based shooting.
- Environmental authorities: Tasked with maintaining compliance registries and enforcing declarations from ranges.
With some exemptions—for elite sport, forensic work, and research—the regulation balances public health objectives with sector-specific needs.
