THE STANDARD WE SHOOT BY
The Code of Good Shooting Practice
The standard every responsible Gun, gamekeeper and shoot manager should know — and live by.
Why the Code matters
Shooting contributes £2 billion a year to the UK economy and involves over a million people.
Wildlife thrives on land managed for shooting.
Conservation and field sports are not in conflict — they are inseparable.
The Code was developed and endorsed jointly by BASC, the Countryside Alliance, GWCT, the NGO, the CLA and the Scottish Gamekeepers' Association.
THE CODE IN PRACTICE
The Five Golden Rules
1
Safe Conduct
Meet the standards of the Code with respect for the countryside, health and safety, and consideration for everyone around you.
2
Wildlife & Conservation
Shoot management must actively enhance conservation.
3
Respect for Quarry
Every shot bird marked, retrieved and treated as food.
4
Responsible Releasing
Follow sustainable release guidelines on densities, timing, pen siting and welfare.
5
No Replenishment
Birds must never be released mid-season to replace birds already shot.
PUTTING THE CODE INTO ACTION
Practical guidance for every day in the field
Before You Arrive
On Your Peg
After the Drive
- Hold a valid Shotgun Certificate.
- Know your quarry species and seasons.
- Match cartridges and shot size to the day.
- Practise on clays before the season.
- Confirm details with your host.
- Arrive on time.
- Keep the gun broken until loaded on the peg.
- Check your surroundings before every drive.
- Only shoot with clear sky around the bird.
- Never shoot low, into woods or through hedges.
- Never swing through the line.
- Stop immediately at the horn or whistle.
- Mark and count every bird.
- Help the pickers-up.
- Collect your cartridge cases.
- Despatch wounded birds quickly and humanely.
- Never brag about the bag.
"Every bird you shoot is food. Treat it accordingly."
All shot game must enter the food chain, and every Gun should accept their brace at the day's end.
KNOW YOUR DUTIES
The Law
Firearms Act 1968
— shotgun certificates.
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
— close seasons and protected species.
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
— briefings and risk assessments.
Lead Shot Regulations
— no lead over wetlands or for waterfowl in England and Wales.
Animal Welfare Act 2006
— gamebird welfare.
Food Safety Act 1990
— game entering the food chain.