A political spotlight is cast by MEP Riho Terras (PPE) on the European Commission's approach to banning lead in rimfire ammunition under the REACH regulation — a move poised to unsettle hunters, ammunition manufacturers, and environmental stakeholders. Terras questions the rationale behind a prohibition that, after a transitional phase, could effectively bar the use of rimfire rifles for hunting, underscoring the conflict between environmental policy and hunting traditions.

This inquiry emerged as a written parliamentary question submitted on October 8, 2025, aimed at clarifying compliance with Article 68(1) of REACH, which requires the availability of technically feasible alternatives before imposing restrictions. Terras probes how the Commission evaluated socio-economic impacts, highlighting concerns that hunters might lose access to vital ammunition types without viable substitutes.

The Commission's response, articulated by Executive Vice-President Séjourné, leans heavily on scientific advice from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and its committees. ECHA's report acknowledged the lack of ready alternatives and had recommended a five-year transition; however, the Commission proposes doubling this period to facilitate development and scale-up of non-lead options. There are no detailed numerical targets or budget plans revealed, but a clear deadline extension signals cautious progression.

Policy orientation tends towards balancing environmental health against practical hunting use, prioritizing eventual restriction but recognizing current technological limits. This approach reflects a nuanced trade-off: tightening chemical regulations versus preserving hunting activity.

The stakeholders who stand to feel the impact are broad

hunters face operational constraints post-transition; ammunition manufacturers confront R&D demands; environmental advocates observe potential lead reduction benefits; while national authorities navigate enforcement challenges. The extended timeline attempts to mitigate immediate disruptions but simultaneously pressures industry innovation.

Institutionally, the Commission's draft faces scrutiny within member state committees and the European Parliament, with no vote expected before 2026. The response to Terras’ query signals a methodical, if incremental, path forward in this contentious regulatory arena.

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