A lead shot maker’s view: Safety, recycling, innovation

We all have heard of the dangers of lead exposure for many many decades now. There is science in these warnings, and there is little doubt that it affects small children, pregnant woman, animals and our environment.

Like most metals, used responsibly, lead can be harvested and used in our lives to our advantage. We believe that recycling is key.

Because we are the conservators of our land, and the caretakers of Earth's animals, we have a responsibility to be mindful of what we do: And this means not placing animals at risk, and cleaning up after ourselves.

McAlister Brand Shot creates lead projectiles meant to be used in the Trap/Skeet, and other competitive shotgun shooting.

We do not support the use of our shot for hunting, which may then leave uncollected lead about such that other animals can ingest it, or pollute our nation's lands or waterways.

We support the collection (mining) of lead shot from skeet and trap clubs all across the nation, so that it then can be recycled, made into new shot, and then reused over and over. We collect lead from gun and rifle ranges as well, to then be melted down and remade into lead shot.

In addition, we are seeking out new safe metals and systems to employ in an effort to work away from lead shot, and eventually have something new, completely safe and effective.

We all can work toward a safer land for our children and all of our planet's inhabitants.

' Mike Johnson is the sales manager for Wilton-based McAlister Brand Shot Company. Comments: mike@mcalistershot.com