The news that most pheasants are still being shot with lead (News, 10 March) is hardly surprising. In common with most shooters, I buy my cartridges in modest bulk and, at any one time, I am likely to have enough for two or three years in stock. Having used non-lead alternatives for all of my wildfolwing for 25 years, I have no concern over making the switch for game and pigeon too, but I have no intention of throwing away a couple of thousand lead cartridges.
So in a year or so, I shall be buying steel with biodegradable wads for all of my shooting, and would encourage everyone else to do likewise. Our credibility as working conservationists is at stake here. We all need to embrace this change and prove to the naysayers that we can do the right thing without being forced.
Mike Swan
GWCT Head of Education & Shooting Times contributor