Is the ammo can next to the safe starting to run a little low on Federal American Eagle 9mm? Is the local shop short too?
For too many shooters around the country, this is the new normal. But it also has many of us thinking: are there ways around this ammo shortage?
The short answer is yes, and one of the ways out is by buying online. Here are a few things you need to know.
Why Is It So Hard to Buy Ammo Right Now?
First things first, there are a number of factors playing into this current ammo shortage.
One is a massive increase in demand. Sales of firearms and ammo have positively soared for the past three years. This puts a strain on local supply.
Moreover, ammunition manufacturers have simply struggled to keep up with demand, and panic buying makes the issue worse. Even at capacity, some manufacturers have become
strapped trying to fill demand.
Government regulations that have hindered the supply chain haven’t helped, either.
That is a vast oversimplification, but it does illustrate the main reasons for the current ammo crisis.
So what about buying online?
Can You Buy Ammo Online and Ship It to Your House?
The short answer is yes, but with a caveat. In much of the country, this is legal and many people do so. There are, however, some states and other jurisdictions in which it is not legal – for instance, California (but no one should be surprised by that).
It is also important to recognize that while it may be legal in your state (or area) to buy ammo online and have it shipped directly to your house, some retailers will not ship to specific states or locations in order to avoid potential legal issues.
But don’t blame company policy for your state’s unconstitutional laws.
Is Buying Ammo Online Legit?
Buying ammo online is legit as long as you buy from a reputable supplier. Obviously, some of the big names in the industry, such as MidwayUSA and Cabela’s, sell ammo online. You just need to do your homework before buying. So what can you look for to hedge your bets?
What to Look for When Buying Ammo Online
There are numerous ways to assess the quality and reliability of an online ammo retailer. One is whether or not you’ve heard of it before. For instance, if you’ve bought ammo in person at BassPro or Cabela’s – well then you can be fairly certain their online shops are legitimate.
But if you’re not familiar with the company, ask around, either among friends or at the range. Chances are, someone in your circle is familiar with a website even if you aren’t.
You can also read online reviews. For instance, AmmoSeek.com and AmmoBuy.com are pretty decent places to scope out new online suppliers. Reddit isn’t bad either.
For those of you running low on American Eagle 9mm who need a new supplier, consider an online retailer like Bucking Horse Outpost.
They offer great prices and carry a wide range of popular calibers and loads. They’re also highly reviewed by customers – but don’t take our word for it.
Check out what their customers have to say about them on AmmoSeek.com and AmmoBuy.com via the previous links. People that have bought from them either have good, or very good, things to say.
If there’s a different cartridge you’re looking for besides 9mm Luger, keep in mind they also carry .22, .223, 5.56, .45, and many other rifle and pistol ammunition calibers, from the top brands.
Again, don’t take our word for it. Visit their website at BuckingHorseOutpost.com to learn more.
