More Americans than ever before own their own firearm, which is good news for ammo dealers and resellers, especially as the internet has given them access to clients across the US. Unfortunately for buyers, the surge in the market has also resulted in a number of scam sites, illegal dealers, and a host of other problems they need to be aware of. So, before you spend any money at an online store, be sure you have done your research and considered the following five important aspects of online ammo buying.

Know the Laws in Your State

With the Second Amendment allowing all citizens the right to bear arms, the number of guns in American hands has soared in recent years. With this increase in firepower comes a number of laws and regulations that have been implemented by states in an attempt to control gun-related violence and gun deaths. Unfortunately for gun owners, this means that the gun laws in different states can vary wildly, and are prone to change. 

So, before you even start looking at your online options, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the laws in your state. Additionally, for those looking to enhance their shooting skills within the constraints of these regulations, consulting a detailed guide to dry fire training systems can offer valuable insights into practicing safely and legally without the need for live ammunition. In particular, take note of the bans and restrictions placed on weapons, accessories, and ammo so that you don’t find yourself on the wrong side of the law as well as out of pocket when the equipment ends up in lockup. 

Only Buy from Reputable Sources

Once you know the restrictions you need to be aware of, the next step is finding a reputable source of ammo. As the market for ammunition has expanded, so has the number of scam sites pretending to be genuine stores. When searching online, always check that the website address you are visiting is spelt correctly, as many scam sites replicate genuine reseller sites to trick buyers into thinking they are on a genuine site. 

Secondly, check out the payment methods offered by the store. If they only accept cryptocurrency, chances are they are a scam. Reputable resellers like Bulk Munitions, which carry a small range of the best ammo calibers and brands, offer a number of payment options from reputable banks. Once you are sure the website is indeed who it says on the front page, other things you should check for include broken links on the site, outdated information on laws and regulations, and strange-looking logos for well-known ammo brands.

Don’t Buy Off-Name Ammo Just Because It is Cheap

There are a number of online ammo stores that sell off-brand ammo for extremely low prices, but you should always be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Cheap ammo, re-manufactured ammo, or foreign ammo that was brought into the country as part of a bigger procurement order for the army is often sold in bulk on what looks to be reputable sites, but the reality is that you get what you pay for. This kind of ammo is typically stored in less than ideal conditions, is made with low-quality material, and is often manufactured poorly, which could result in a number of problems when fired. From barrel fouling and cycling issues to frequent jams, cheap rounds are more often than not more trouble than they are worth.  

Know When to Shop 

Just like with any market, ammo prices fluctuate throughout the year. While the increase in the number of firearms being sold and ongoing ammo shortage has done much to drive the price of ammo through the roof, the good news is that there is relief on the horizon. While some experts expect the shortage to continue to some extent into 2023, there has been a definite increase in the availability of many top brands of ammo. So, if you can afford to wait it out, you may consider holding off on any big ammo purchases until the prices have come down to more reasonable rates. 

Triple Check Your Product Descriptions

So, you know what your state laws involve, you’ve found a reputable online store to buy from that sells ammo from well-known brands, you’ve waited out the ammo crisis and the prices finally fit your wallet. So, what now? Before you place an order, you need to make sure you know what you are buying. Check the number of rounds that come in a box, what the exact type and specifications are for the ammo, what is made from, and if you can get a better deal if you buy in bulk or not. 

Some websites take advantage of buyers not paying attention to what they’re buying and get away with passing on ‘deals’ that, with a bit of math, are actually not worthwhile. While you’re checking these details, take a look at the shipping costs and terms, as often sites that offer ammo for cheap make it up with exorbitant shipping fees that push them into the higher price point than expected.

Buying anything online can be risky, but with high-demand items like ammunition, the risk is even greater for the buyer. Make smart buying choices to ensure that the ammo you buy is worth what you pay for it.