Pests news from BPCA

19 August 2026

VIDEO: Taking the lead: changing shooting and ammunition laws for pest professionals

CPD VIDEO

Lead ammunition rules are changing, and pest professionals who use rifles, shotguns or air weapons need to understand what that means in practice.

In this presentation, rural pest management specialist Dave Archer looks at the changing legal position on lead ammunition, the available alternatives, and the wider responsibilities that come with using firearms for pest and wildlife management.

Drawing on nearly five decades in the industry, Dave covers:

  • The phase-out of lead ammunition and what is changing
  • Which types of ammunition are affected
  • Alternatives including copper, steel and tungsten
  • Why airgun users still need to pay close attention to power limits
  • Differences in firearms law across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
  • The importance of checking equipment, ammunition and accuracy
  • Why pest professionals need to be able to defend lethal control as legal, necessary, humane and professional
  • How shooting and wildlife management have changed during Dave’s career.

As ever with Dave, there are also a few detours into “Dinosaur Dave’s” collection of old pest control and shooting memorabilia, plus some thoughts on how the industry may continue to change.

CAUTION: This video discusses firearms and ammunition legislation for professional development purposes. Always check current government and police guidance before acquiring, carrying or using firearms or ammunition.

All information is correct at the time of filming. This video is taken from BPCA's Digital Forum 39.

Views of the speakers are their own and not necessarily shared by BPCA.

On BPCA Registered? Make sure you record your CPD points.

Source:

Highlights View all news

30 June 2026

Latest news

GET INVOLVED: Innovative block treatment - could you be part of the treatment phase?

Veritas Pest Consultancy are conducting a new and innovative project that is tackling a long-seated cockroach and bed bug infestation in a 22-story block of flats in Wolverhampton.

Read more

02 June 2026

Latest news

No Small Matter report: Professional pest management saves UK £1.9bn a year

An independent report commissioned by BPCA reveals the economic and social value of professional pest control in the UK.

Read more

24 February 2026

Latest news

SURVEY: Home Office plans to change firearms licensing – tell us how it might impact you

While no new consultation has yet been launched, proposals to align shotgun licensing more closely with rifle controls could have serious implications for pest professionals who rely on shotguns for legitimate, professional use.

Read more
Latest View all news

14 October 2026

Latest news

Taking pest management to Labour conference

Rosina Robson reflects on a day at Labour’s conference, the conversations taking place around government and what they mean for BPCA members.

Read more

13 October 2026

Latest news

VIDEO: What role will pest professionals play in yellow-legged (Asian) hornet control?

From recognising a suspect hornet to understanding why an unreported nest treatment can cause problems, this BPCA debate explores where pest professionals fit into the response.

Read more

09 October 2026

Latest news

Early action on pests can help ease distress, says BPCA

Ahead of World Mental Health Day, BPCA are urging householders to take swift action and help avoid the mental health impacts of living with an infestation.

Read more