This is not merely a minor inconvenience

Restrictions on a range of lead rifle ammunition will take effect over the next two years, so Terry Behan looks at its potential complexities.

In February, the Government laid a statutory instrument that will restrict some uses of lead ammunition in England, Scotland and Wales in phases between April 2028 and April 2029. BASC has covered shotguns and now turns to rifles.

To recap, the use and sale of lead bullets for live quarry shooting in calibres 6.17mm and above will be banned from 1 April 2029 – including .243. Smaller calibres such as .22 rimfire and .22 centrefire can continue to be used.

The use of lead bullets for outdoor target shooting will be restricted from 1 April 2028, except at ranges that meet required risk-management measures. Police, military and indoor ranges are exempt, and there are no restrictions on lead pellets used in air rifles.

At first glance, this appears straightforward. However, for many in the shooting and deer management community, the reality is more complex.

There are around 60,000 deer managers currently using the .243 calibre. For many, it is a trusted and practical choice that has served reliably for years.

Most .243 rifles are built with a 1-in-10in twist rate, optimised for stabilising lead bullets typically ranging from 55-gr to 105-gr. Non-lead ammunition changes that dynamic significantly.

Because copper is less dense than lead, a non-lead bullet of equivalent weight must be longer. That increased length often requires a faster twist rate—typically closer to 1-in-8in—for proper stabilisation. Testing indicates that many existing .243 rifles may not perform adequately with monolithic non-lead bullets.

In practical terms, this could force rifle owners to re-barrel their firearms or apply for a variation for a different calibre.

This is not merely a minor inconvenience. It represents a significant financial and administrative burden. The impact will be felt by certificate holders who have already invested in lawful equipment and now face additional cost, uncertainty and delay.

At the same time, firearms licensing departments—already under pressure—will be required to process increased variation applications. In many areas, these already take months, raising the prospect of further delays.

The consequences extend beyond cost and administration. If fewer people have access to suitable rifles, or are left waiting for variations or replacements, fewer will be actively managing deer populations. That should concern everyone, particularly given the Government’s aim to reduce the negative impacts of rising deer numbers.

The inclusion of the .243 raises an obvious question: why is it in scope at all? Originally, the cut-off point for small calibres was set below 6.5mm. During consultation, changes in Scottish legislation and the availability of lead-free .243 ammunition led to the restriction being defined as any projectile of 6.17mm or above—bringing the .243 within scope.

Some argue it should be excluded because the bore diameter is slightly smaller, but as currently drafted, the restriction clearly captures it.

BASC has raised these concerns with ministers, submitting technical evidence on the challenges of non-lead .243 ammunition and the potential consequences for deer management.

Looking ahead, BASC will continue to support members through the transition. Non-lead ammunition events will be held across the country, allowing shooters to test alternatives and understand performance.

This issue matters for deer management, for wildlife, and for those carrying out this essential work. It also matters for the future of practical, evidence-based shooting policy in the UK.