HOW DO I KNOW IT’S LEAD-FREE?
BUYER’S GUIDE
When it comes to lead-free sporting, one of the biggest barriers to hunters and anglers is knowing the products available to them and understanding how to determine which ones are actually lead-free.
This page serves as a resource for sportspeople to reference when standing in the ammo aisle or searching the internet for non-toxic tackle. From marketing symbols to look for to key language and specific lead-free brand lines, this guide covers it all.
SYMBOLS TO LOOK FOR
Some manufacturers will print a small symbol featuring the outline of the state of California with a check mark in the center on the side of their boxes. Since California observes a statewide lead ammunition ban, this symbol verifies that the ammo is lead-free (and legal in California). Here, you can see the difference between the lead-based Hornady ELD-X™ and the lead-free CX™ Outfitter.
Other manufacturers will print a small circle on the box with “Lead Free Bullet” stamped inside. Remington and Federal are owned by the same company and have similar branding. This may be on the front or the back, but it clearly defines a non-toxic ammunition choice.
Manufacturers may not mark the box as lead-free at all, or it may be in the fine print. This is the most difficult ammunition to differentiate when you’re standing in the ammo aisle. Pay attention to key words like monolithic and non-toxic. Knowing your preferred manufacturer’s specific lead-free lines helps narrow it down. Weatherby’s Select Plus line includes both lead-based and lead-free options. In this case, you have to know that the bullet is lead-free based on its specific manufacturer. Barnes TTSX is, in fact, lead free.
BRAND-SPECIFIC LEAD-FREE LINES
CENTER & RIM-FIRE
SHOTGUN
There are many additional manufacturers that produce lead-free ammunition. To find the right lead-free ammo for your firearm, check out our Ammo Selector. It automatically filters for lead-free ammunition, so all you need to do is filter by your caliber and preferred grain weight.
BULLETS
HOW DO I SWITCH?
LEAD-FREE ALTERNATIVES
FISHING
Many nymphs are tied with lead wire to help them sink quickly. However, this is not often marketed by fly companies, leaving the consumer unaware that they are using tackle with lead in it.
Orvis ties their flies entirely with lead-free wire, but the only other way to ensure your flies are lead-free is to tie them yourself.
Non-toxic split shot, sinkers, eyes, beadheads, wire and jigheads are all available for purchase. Be sure to double check the material to ensure the product you’re purchasing is lead-free.
Remember, keep an eye out for key words like non-toxic and lead-free. Know the alternatives (see above!) and look for those materials listed on the packages.