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This was because while lead bullets lose up to 40% of their mass on impact, spraying into tiny fragments up to 18 inches from the wound channel, copper bullets retain 95 to 100% of their mass.Īfter years of development, today’s copper bullets are available in a large array of calibers, weights and designs that meet or exceed the performance of their lead counterparts. With large game, the argument was that lead bullets would pack a more devastating punch leading to quicker, more consistent, and more humane deaths.Įarly adopters, however, found that copper bullets produced better penetration than their lead counterparts, with a smaller wound cavity and minimal fragmentation. When copper bullets first hit the market, hunters were concerned they would be lighter and less dense, proving less effective than lead bullets of the same shape and size. Now, however, we know that non-lead alternatives are not just safer they’re just as effective as lead (or more so) at a very similar price. Early versions came with comparatively high prices and unknown efficiency, stalling widespread adoption. These options protect wildlife such as eagles from being exposed when consuming carcasses left behind.ĭespite their health and environmental benefits, nonlead alternatives have not always been embraced by hunters. Having switched to nonlead ammunition for waterfowl, there is a movement among hunters to use alternatives such as copper for other game species as well. Subsequently, many other laws were passed recognizing the negative impact of environmental lead contamination on wildlife. In 1991, it became illegal nationwide to hunt waterfowl with lead ammunition and thus, many waterfowl species experienced a rebound. Below is an overview of the issue, the angles, and some of the options hunters have today.īack to top The Movement Toward Nonlead Ammunition Regulatory Changes Switching to nonlead ammunition is yet another way they can support wildlife. Hunters themselves are conservationists, maintaining species populations and protecting habitats. But in recent years, studies have illuminated serious wildlife health and environmental risks of using lead-based ammunition for hunting, and manufacturers responded with cost-effective and powerful non-lead options. Impacts of Lead Ammunition to Avian ScavengersĬheap and efficient, lead has long prevailed as the primary material for big game hunting ammunition.Hunting with Nonlead Ammunition Why make the switch? Rulemaking Proposals Open to Public Comment.Opportunities for People with Disabilities.