On 2 March 2026, the United Kingdom adopted the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2026 (SI 2026/195), introducing new restrictions on lead and its compounds in ammunition under entry 63 of Annex XVII of UK REACH. This measure aims to reduce environmental contamination and exposure of wildlife to lead resulting from hunting and shooting activities.
New Restrictions on Lead Ammunition
The regulation prohibits the placing on the market and use of ammunition containing lead above specified concentration thresholds. These restrictions apply to Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) under the UK REACH framework.
The measure introduces limits for both lead shot and other projectiles, including certain rifle bullets used for hunting and target shooting.
Scope of the Restrictions
Under the regulation:
- The placing on the market and use of shot containing lead at a concentration equal to or greater than 1% by weight will be prohibited.
- The placing on the market and use of projectiles other than shot containing lead at a concentration equal to or greater than 3% by weight will also be prohibited.
The restriction on projectiles includes large-calibre bullets (≥ 6.17 mm / 0.243 calibre) used for live quarry shooting. Small-calibre bullets below the specified threshold are not included in the restriction.
Transition Periods and Derogations
The regulation provides for a three-year transition period before the restrictions come into effect.
The use of lead bullets for outdoor target shooting will also be restricted. However, outdoor shooting ranges may continue to allow their use if appropriate risk management measures are implemented to prevent environmental contamination. Such ranges will have two years to implement these measures.
An exemption allows elite athletes training for the Olympic or Paralympic Games to continue using lead shot.
Regulatory Context
Lead ammunition is considered a significant source of lead contamination in soil and wildlife. Birds and other animals may ingest spent shot or bullet fragments, which can lead to poisoning and environmental harm.
This measure amends Annex XVII of UK REACH, which lists substances that are subject to restrictions on manufacture, placing on the market, or use.
