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In July of 2022, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service started to move forward on banning lead ammunition on individual refuge units in the coming years. Many states, including Arizona, California, and Colorado, have been moving to a partial, if not a complete, ban on lead ammo. The USFWS has left the possibility of extending the ban further as well. These rulings have been passed due to lead bullet fragments being left behind in animal carcasses and the environment. This can be especially harmful to California Condor populations that have been critically endangered for decades. Condors are scavenger birds; they can contract lead poisoning from lead shot still inside hunted animals. Now that the state and federal governments are looking at reducing lead ammo in the environment, the hope is that this will minimize lead poisoning numbers in other scavenger animals.
Are Copper Bullets Better Than Lead?
Many shooters and gun enthusiasts say that the design for copper bullets has improved. Copper bullets are also called monolithic ammo. Copper is lighter, harder, and less likely to fragment than lead. Lead is a softer and more malleable metal, which makes it an inexpensive ammo type that has been a plus for hunters and shooters.
However, lead bullets can lose half their weight retention on impact, leaving hundreds of tiny projectile fragments both in the meat hunters take home and the entrails they leave behind, which are a food source for many wild creatures. Copper ammo is heavier and broader, which creates a more effective wound channel. Lead being very deadly to humans and animals is why the push for lead-free ammo has been at both the state and federal levels.
Do They Still Make Copper Bullets?
Yes, ammunition manufacturers are creating more bullet designs for solid copper hunting rifle ammo or copper-jacketed bullets with a lead core. If you are hunting on public lands, ensure you know what hunting ammo is allowed.
Is Brass or Copper Better for Bullets?
Copper is softer and lead-free for states and federal public lands which now require non-lead bullets for hunting. Copper tends to have a slightly higher ballistic coefficient than brass. Brass bullets are also better for your gun barrel and almost have a cleaning effect, scraping residue and build-up as it leaves the barrel.
Are Copper Bullets More Expensive Than Lead Bullets?
Yes, copper bullets are traditionally more expensive than lead ammunition. Copper bullets are heavier and must be machined to allow proper expansion when fired.
Shop Copper Ammo at OpticsPlanet!
At OpticsPlanet.com, we make sure that we carry the brands and products you need for a successful hunt; whether it's whitetail deer season in the Midwest or big game in the Western States, we sell the ammo you need. If you live or will be traveling in a state pushing for more non-toxic ammunition when hunting, then be sure to shop for copper ammo at OpticsPlanet!
