Why I Choose Tactical Grit: The Truth About Lead Exposure and the Importance of Proper Decontamination

As a women’s concealed carry instructor, and passionate advocate for safe and responsible gun handling, I’m constantly reminding people that firearm safety doesn’t stop at muzzle awareness and trigger discipline. There’s another silent danger that often gets overlooked: lead exposure.

Whether you’re a recreational shooter, a hunter, or someone who carries daily, the risk of lead poisoning is real—and it’s one we can’t afford to ignore.

What is Lead Poisoning, and Why Should Shooters Care?

Lead poisoning happens when lead accumulates in the body over time. You don’t have to be around massive quantities of it to be at risk—even small amounts, especially through repeated exposure, can cause serious harm. According to the Mayo Clinic, adults exposed to lead may suffer from:

• Cardiovascular issues

• Kidney damage

• Reproductive problems

• Memory loss or cognitive impairment

But the threat is even more severe for children. Lead poisoning in kids can result in irreversible neurological damage, developmental delays, and, in high enough concentrations, even death. It’s not just about you—it’s about everyone you come home to after the range.

Where Does the Lead Come From?

Every time a firearm is fired, lead particles and other heavy metal contaminants are released—especially from the primer and bullet. That dust settles on your hands, your gear, your clothing, and even your face. It can also stick to surfaces in your home, car, or range bag if you don’t decontaminate properly.

This is why washing your hands with regular soap isn’t enough. The fine particles can stay embedded in your skin or under your nails and be transferred to food, drink, or your loved ones with a simple touch.

Why I Choose Tactical Grit Over D-Lead or Traditional Wipes

After years of using products like D-Lead soap and wipes, I made the switch to Tactical Grit, and I haven’t looked back. Here’s why:

1. Superior Lead Removal

Tactical Grit is a patent-pending, powder-based formula specifically designed to remove lead and other contaminants from your skin more effectively than most liquid soaps or wipes. It was developed using the latest research in environmental science and chemistry to address the unique needs of shooters.

2. No Mess, No Waste

D-Lead wipes are convenient, but they often dry out quickly, don’t scrub deeply, and create extra waste. The powder formula of Tactical Grit offers more control and a more thorough cleaning process with minimal residue or environmental impact.

3. A Company That Gets It

Tactical Grit was founded by a lifelong shooter who saw the effects of lead exposure firsthand. Their mission is rooted in personal experience and a passion for protecting the shooting community—not just profit margins. That means something to me.

4. Safe for You, Safe for Your Family

Using Tactical Grit gives me peace of mind that I’m not unintentionally exposing my family  to dangerous toxins. It’s about setting a higher standard for safety—one that extends beyond the range.

Beyond Washing: Other Ways to Reduce Lead Exposure Risk

While Tactical Grit is an essential part of my post-shooting routine, here are a few more best practices to limit lead contamination:

• Designate a specific spot for range clothes and gear.

Keep all clothing worn at the range in a bin or laundry bag—and don’t sit on your couch wearing it. Wash separately from household laundry.

• Change shoes or boots before entering your home.

Lead dust can cling to soles and be tracked inside. A pair of “range-only” shoes that stay in the garage or entryway is a smart habit.

• Immediately Decontaminate 

Make sure to decontaminate your hands and forearms as soon as possible. I recommend washing them with soap and water first, then using a specialized product like Tactical Grit, and washing again before leaving the range. When you get home, take a shower right away. This routine helps prevent contamination from spreading in your vehicle.

• Snack & Hydrate with Caution 

At the range, avoid finger foods like chips, and clean your water bottle frequently. Try to use caps that don’t require you to touch the mouthpiece to open them.

• Use nitrile gloves when cleaning firearms.

This prevents lead particles from embedding in your skin during scrubbing and oiling.

Final Thoughts

Firearms safety goes beyond range rules—it extends to your home and the people you love. Tactical Grit has become a staple in my gear bag because it works, and because it represents the kind of proactive mindset we should all have when it comes to protecting our health.

Lead poisoning is preventable—but only if we take the right steps. So whether you’re a parent, law enforcement officer, weekend plinker, or seasoned shooter, wash your hands with Tactical Grit and handle your gear responsibly.

Tactical grit comes in various forms, including large pumps, personal tubes, and convenient single-use packets. While each option has its merits, I personally prefer the single-use packets for their practicality and ease of use. They’re compact enough to toss into each of my range bags without taking up much space, and I never have to worry about forgetting them. This makes it incredibly easy to stay prepared and ensure I have what I need for any situation that may arise on the range.

Let’s shoot safely—and live safely.