Nonlead Ammo Exceptions for Vintage Firearms

August 27, 2020

Question: I am the third generation to hunt with my grandfather’s .32 Winchester Special. I have been unable to locate nonlead ammunition for the rifle, which I would like to pass on to my son this year. Is there any exception if nonlead is not available, or do you know where I can find some? (John)

Answer: Your Winchester sounds like a great rifle, and one truly worthy of being passed on. But there is not an exception. Nonlead ammunition is required when taking any wildlife with a firearm anywhere in California. However, there is a possible solution. You may be able to load your own ammo with nonlead bullets. One of our wildlife officers suggested finding a local gun shop or gunsmith who can teach you how. The officer said, “I’m in the same situation – I’m currently in the process of making my own brass for a .255 Dean, a 120-year-old family gun that I’d like to keep in use. Many of the older calibers are nearly impossible to use without loading your own ammo.”

Also, you should know that manufacturers are adding more and more nontoxic rounds and calibers as time goes by – so continue to check the list of Certified Nonlead Ammunition from time to time! And you can continue to use lead ammunition for target shooting where allowed, which is another way to continue enjoying your grandfather’s rifle.

Non toxic rounds. 

Hmm.

Hell, even for cartridges with widely available non-lead ammo they ought to load their own. Much better bullet choices than Barnes out there.

The non lead projectile for the 32 special does not exist.
Handloads are superior, not even close.  Barnes bullets are accurate,have not yet harvested any thing with them.Hopefully that changes in October.