I’m a little puzzled by this and query the motivation and wisdom of this.
BASCs primary role should be to promote shooting. That doesn’t mean encouraging risky behaviour but seeking to discourage people from shooting, or create the impression that it’s a particularly risky pastime is an odd thing to be doing.
The guidance starts by saying you shouldn’t start a new physical activity when pregnant. That’s the guidance but my understanding (recently conveyed to my wife by professionals) is that’s things like don’t take up running or rock climbing, i.e. strenuous new activities. I’m struggling to see why (say) shooting a rifle from a bench or skeet at a clayground would be any more of a problem than taking up boules.
The lead guidance again is something that I query the sense in drawing attention to. Is BASC now suggesting that shooting generally creates an unacceptable risk of lead exposure from primers? If it’s enough of a risk that pregnant women should be told to avoid, then why not everyone else? Lead free primers are rare and in their infancy - it’s bordering suicidal to start embracing the suggestion that lead based primers are a serious health risk.
Noise, perhaps there’s something there but what’s the advice on concerts, or other noisy activities? I confess I’ve not looked but unless the advice is to avoid these for similar reasons then why is BASC singling out the one activity it exists to promote?
The suggestion to consult a doctor or midwife appears a deflection. I’d suggest most (if not all) will have no real knowledge of the particular risks associated with shooting and the consequence will be to advise against the risk. There’s no way I can see a doctor or midwife saying ‘crack on’ if there’s a potential risk but one they can’t cite a source to justify permitting.
I get what BASC is trying to achieve here, but really question if this is a good way to do it.
basc.org.uk
My wife was tired of my unsuccessful archery hunting and took matters into her own hands. 7 months pregnant at the time.
