If you’re looking to buy ammo for your gun, there are quite a few things you need to think about first. It doesn’t matter if you’re into guns or just like to be prepared; knowing what to get can really pay off. Here are 18 things to know before you buy ammunition.
Matching Caliber
The first thing to remember is that you have to match your ammo to your gun. Each gun is designed for a specific type of ammo, and mixing them up is a big mistake, as it can be downright dangerous. Look at the barrel of your gun or the owner’s manual to find out what caliber you need to get it right and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Check Your Mag
Likewise, make sure the ammo you buy fits well in your gun’s magazine because poorly-fitting ammo can cause jams and feed problems. Even if you’re sure it works, you should regularly test your ammo in your magazines, especially if they’re new or different brands. It’ll keep your gun working well, and it’ll also help you practice your shooting skills.
Picking the Right Bullet
Not all bullets work for the same thing. If you’re planning on hitting cans off your back porch, then full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets are for you. But if you’re considering hunting, you might want to grab some hollow points as they expand on impact and are more humane. Choose your ammunition based on what you’ll be shooting at.
Grain Weight Is Key
Grain weight affects how fast and straight your bullet travels, so make sure you choose the right one. Lighter bullets that go faster will help you hit those long-range targets, while heavier ones pack a punch and cut through the wind better. Think about what you’ll do most, and pick your grain to match.
Brand Matters
The brand you buy is also important, as some brands are pretty reliable and accurate rounds, while others might be better for your wallet. Make sure you do your homework by reading some reviews and asking around. Whatever brand you pick, ensure it’s good so you’ll have less trouble at the range or in the field.
Freshness Counts
Ammo doesn’t get better with age, and old ammo can misfire or not fire at all. That can be a real bummer when you’re all set to shoot, so check for any discoloration or corrosion on the bullets or casings. These issues indicate that your ammo is past its prime and that you must get some new ones instead.
Go Lead-Free
If you care about the environment, then lead-free ammo is the way to go. These rounds are usually made of copper, which is less toxic, and some ranges actually require them, so it’s good to have a box handy. Choosing lead-free also means less lead buildup in your firearm, making it easier to clean your gun and keeping it lasting longer.
Know the Law
The law on ammo depends greatly on where you are, as some places have strict rules on types like hollow points or tracer rounds. You should check your local laws before buying to avoid any legal troubles. This way, you’ll stay out of trouble and use appropriate and safe ammo for your environment.
Buying Bulk
Buying ammo in bulk can save you a lot of cash, but only if you shoot a lot. Just make sure you’re stocking up on something you know works well with your firearm because there’s nothing worse than sitting on a mountain of ammo that you can’t use. If you buy large quantities of ammo, you won’t have to make as many shopping trips, and you won’t be affected by changes in the market.
Storing It Right
Keep your ammo in good condition by storing it correctly, preferably in a cool, dry place. Moisture can ruin your ammo, so investing in some ammo cans with those little silica gel packs may be worthwhile to keep things dry. When you store your ammo correctly, it will be ready to shoot whenever you are.
Practice Makes Perfect
Don’t waste your fancy ammo on practice shots. Get some cheaper practice rounds for the range because they’ll do the job without costing too much, and you can save the good stuff for when it really counts. Plus, when you use lower-cost rounds for practice, you’ll be able to shoot more and often and improve your skills.
Reloaded Ammo Caution
Reloaded or remanufactured ammo can be cheaper, but be careful because the quality isn’t always great. You should always buy from a reputable dealer to avoid duds, and when in doubt, it’s better to pay a bit more for peace of mind. Sticking to safe dealers will guarantee you reliable performance every time you pull the trigger.
Shopping Online
You can find some great deals on ammo online, as these stores usually have more variety than your local shop. Of course, you’ll need to check the shipping laws for your area because some places have restrictions on how and where ammo stores can ship ammo. Shopping from home means you can take your time to compare prices and types, too.
Price Shop
Similarly, whether you’re shopping online or in-store, it’s always worth comparing prices. A little legwork can give you some big savings, especially if you’re buying in bulk, so keep an eye out for sales and promotions. You may even want to subscribe to newsletters from your favorite suppliers to get a heads-up on deals and new stock arrivals.
Watch for Seasonal Trends
Like with any product, ammo prices, and availability can change with the seasons, especially around hunting seasons or during political changes. If you buy off-season, you may get better prices and an even better selection, meaning planning ahead is smart. This way, you’ll save money and stay well-stocked during shortages or price hikes.
Velocity and Energy
Speed and energy are two other key factors that affect your bullet’s impact, as faster rounds can be great for certain types of shooting, but they might kick harder. Think carefully about what you’re comfortable with and what fits your shooting style. It’ll help you make better ammo choices, and that’s always good.
Understanding Primers
Many people forget about primers, but they’re important, particularly if you reload your ammo. Boxer primers are generally easier to reload than Berdan, so think about this if you’re going to reuse casings. Knowing the type of primer will affect how you reload it, and it’ll also impact how quickly you can recycle your ammunition.
Waterproof Your Shots
Lastly, if you’re shooting somewhere a little wetter, then you may want to get waterproof ammo. These rounds have special seals to protect them against moisture, meaning your rounds will fire reliably no matter the weather. Doing this will prevent misfires and also prolong your ammo’s shelf life.
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