Does Walmart Sell Ammo?
With the recent increase in concern over gun violence and control, it is natural for individuals to want to stay informed about where they can purchase ammunition, including a giant retail giant like Walmart. Walmart, one of the world’s largest retail corporations, is often synonymous with bulk goods and discount shopping. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not Walmart sells ammo, what’s available, what stores sell ammunition, and provide information about their selling policies.
So, Does Walmart Sell Ammo?
In short, Yes, Walmart sells ammo, but with limitations. Most Walmart Supercenters do not stock ammunition at their stores due to legal restrictions and concern over increased gang violence, crime, and other potential issues related to the distribution of ammunition.
Important Exceptions
Despite the blanket ban, some select Walmart locations, primarily its outdoor specialty stores such as Bass Pro Shops or outdoor sections in some stores, may carry ammunition for hunting, shooting sports, or rifle caliber cartridges. These ammunition types include popular calibers like:
• Handgun and revolver ammunition in.380 ACP, 9mm, and.45 ACP calibers
• Shotgun shells (7.5, 9, 10, 12-gauge, etc.)
• Rifle caliber cartridges (204 Ruger, 222 Rem, 223 Rem, etc.)
• Subsonic.22 ammunition for varmint hunting
• Black Powder and Rifle ammunition (rare occasions)
Keep in mind that the selection and quantity may vary depending on the location. Some regional stores or city-specific store locations may stock more exotic or harder-to-find types of ammunition. Use Walmart’s Store Finder to check what types of ammo are available in your nearest store.
Federal Regulations
Before we continue, please note that the Firearms Owners’ Protection Act (1968) in the US requires the FBI to store the sale information of ammunitions bought from law-abiding, licensed Federal Firearms Licensed dealers (FFL) like Walmart**, and federal agencies are banned from accessing such information except under exceptional circumstances.
Walmart’s Ammo Purchasing Process
As of February 2022, the ammunition purchasing process at select Walmart stores can be completed by:
- Walk-up purchase, allowing you to buy limited quantities of ammunition for immediate purchase, usually per transaction limits:
• 6+1 clips or speed loader for Handgun
• Single shot/ tube for shotguns - Reserved online checkout for quantities in excess of reserved limits at select outdoor specialty stores.
Check the Website Before Visiting
In this digital era, you’re encouraged to verify store availability online on the Walmart Website, or directly through a smartphone app like the Walmart Store Finder tool for seamless navigation of their selection process. To find availability for your specific item(s) visit Walmart.com.
Regional Differences in Sales Policies
In select states where Walmart doesn’t sell guns or ammunition due to regional restrictions or sales bans (states vary), a "We reserve the right to not accept returns…" message or warning signs outside the stores’ entrance indicates their absence. You may see "Sold Out" or restricted tags , which don’t permit reselling or transfer of ammunition**.
Walmart’s Ammunition Store Availability Policy Changes
After several reports and concerns arose, in response to law enforcement queries about the use of.223 Rem cartridge for civilian or military-related activities, Walmart stopped stocking short-barrel assault rifle or 100-200 yard ammunitions starting from November 2012. Prior to this incident, many felt that gun-related merchandise did not suit Walmart’s initial mission focused on mass-merchandise consumer shopping.
From 1998 to September 1997, ammunition was freely sold at Walmarts worldwide. That policy ceased for various regional reasons including fears of rising gang activity in the post-Civil Rights era; as these policies changed nationwide.
In contrast, more recently in July 2000, 2009, Walmart reintroduced shotgun and some centerfire handguns at participating Walmart Supercenters and outdoor-specific stores, though the varieties have never rivaled those of dedicated gun stores.
Conclusion
In summary, Walmart does sell limited ranges of ammunition at select Supercenters, outdoors specialty stores, based on various factors including customer demand and regulatory hurdles. They reserve online sales for non-handgun caliber ammunition.
When attempting to purchase ammunitions in-store Walmart usually permits limited immediate quantity purchases (Walk-up) and higher quantity (1-1, 4-100 rounds/ cartridge) reserves. Availability varies by location. States’ firearm sale restrictions further complicate access as certain restrictions in place supersede online offers.
Ensure before buying an ammo for that specific selection may depend on the retail location where Walmart stores near me. Use store availability check. For full availability, Walmart offers free assistance at all Outdoor sections that also help with Gun Selection Process for the firearm, enabling potential buyers better information at this point too. Remember federal regulations might also contribute, and ensure the law does not preclude ammu
