Lyijymalit

Lyijymalit is a term of Finnish origin that translates to "lead bullets" or "lead shot". Historically, it referred to small, spherical projectiles made of lead, primarily used for hunting small game, particularly birds, and in target shooting. The use of lead shot dates back centuries and was the dominant form of ammunition for shotguns for a long time due to lead's malleability, density, and cost-effectiveness.

The widespread use of lyijymalit in hunting led to significant environmental concerns, particularly in waterfowl habitats. Lead shot, when fired, disperses into small pellets. Some of these pellets are ingested by waterfowl mistaking them for grit, which can lead to lead poisoning. This ingestion can cause severe health problems and death in birds, and can also be passed up the food chain to other animals and humans who consume game hunted with lead ammunition.

In response to these environmental and health risks, many countries and regions have implemented regulations restricting or banning the use of lead shot for hunting, especially in wetlands. These regulations have driven the development and adoption of alternative shot materials, such as steel, bismuth, and tungsten. While lyijymalit were once ubiquitous, their use has declined considerably in many areas due to these environmental policies and the availability of safer alternatives. The term itself now often carries a connotation of historical ammunition rather than current practice in regulated hunting environments.