As a shooter, I know how important it is to find reliable and affordable ammunition.
With the vast options available today, it can be challenging to determine where to buy cheap ammo that meets our needs and budget.
To help my fellow shooters, I’ve taken the time to research the best places to purchase affordable ammunition online.
During my search, I found several reputable online retailers that offer a wide selection of ammunition at competitive prices.
These websites cater to various calibers and brands, ensuring that you can find the exact type of ammo you’re looking for.
Additionally, many of these retailers offer bulk purchasing options, which can significantly reduce the overall cost per round.
Some of the top websites I discovered during my research include Bulk Cheap Ammo, Ammo.com, Palmetto State Armory, SGAmmo, and Lucky Gunner.
These sites provide an easy and convenient way to purchase ammunition for training, self-defense, or hunting.
Take your time to explore their extensive offerings to find the best deals.
Type of Ammunition
Rimfire Ammo
When it comes to rimfire ammunition, I primarily think of .22 LR as the most common caliber.
It’s often used for small game hunting, target shooting, and firearm training due to its affordability and low recoil.
Other rimfire calibers include .17 HMR and .22 WMR, which also tend to have similar characteristics.
Rimfire ammo is generally cheaper than centerfire ammunition, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget or practicing their shooting skills.
Shotgun Ammo
Shotgun ammunition comes in various types, such as birdshot, buckshot, and slugs.
Birdshot is intended for hunting small game and birds, while buckshot is designed for larger game and self-defense situations.
Slugs are single projectiles that offer higher accuracy and stopping power for hunting or tactical purposes.
The most common shotgun gauges are 12-gauge and 20-gauge, but you can also find 16-gauge, 28-gauge, and .410 bore.
When choosing shotgun ammo, make sure to consider the specific purpose and the shotgun’s gauge compatibility.
Rifle Ammo
Rifle ammunition varies widely in caliber, and each has its own distinct advantages depending on the intended use.
Some popular calibers include .223 Remington, 5.56×45 NATO, .308 Winchester, and 7.62x39mm.
When selecting rifle ammo, it’s essential to consider factors like the rifle’s chamber, intended purpose (such as hunting, target shooting, or self-defense), and your personal preferences in terms of recoil and accuracy.
Handgun Ammo
Handgun ammunition is available in a variety of calibers, each with its own set of characteristics and typical uses.
9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and .380 ACP are some of the most popular handgun calibers.
9mm is often chosen for its lower recoil, higher capacity, and affordability, while .45 ACP is valued for its “stopping power” and larger bullet size.
We can get into the round debate later!
.380 ACP is a popular choice for those seeking a smaller, more concealable firearm with less recoil.
When selecting handgun ammo, it’s vital to consider the specific purpose you have in mind, such as target shooting, self-defense, or competition, as well as the caliber of your firearm.
By considering these factors and selecting the appropriate ammunition, you can make an informed decision that best meets your needs and preferences.
Best Online Stores
Palmetto State Armory
In my search for cheap ammunition online, I often use Palmetto State Armory, an online store known for its variety of calibers from top brands.
I found that their prices are quite competitive, and shopping on their website was easy and convenient.
Their selection of ammunition for sale includes popular calibers such as 5.56, .308 Win, and .45 ACP, providing options for various disciplines like training, hunting, or plinking.
LuckyGunner
Another store I sometimes use is LuckyGunner.
This online store specializes in offering a wide range of ammo for sale at reasonable prices.
With fast shipping and a user-friendly website, it’s pretty easy to shop at LuckyGunner.
They cover a broad array of calibers, from 9mm to .223 Remington, and have a convenient filtering system to find the specific ammo I needed.
SGAmmo
Again, another company I use frequently is SGAmmo.
They are known for offering a diverse selection of ammo for sale at affordable prices.
With availability from popular brands like Federal and Winchester, SGAmmo has options for most shooting needs.
I appreciate their clear product descriptions, and their website is easy to navigate, adding to the convenience of purchasing ammo online.
Bulk Cheap Ammo
Bulk Cheap Ammo is a comprehensive online platform focused on providing an expansive array of ammunition in large volumes and at discounted prices.
The store’s vast inventory encompasses a multitude of calibers, satisfying the needs of a diverse range of shooting disciplines.
This makes Bulk Cheap Ammo an indispensable resource for all types of shooters, including hobbyists, sports shooters, hunters, and professionals, who require large quantities of ammunition.
Furthermore, its volume discounts make it an especially attractive option for high-volume shooters.
Alongside its wide selection and competitive pricing, Bulk Cheap Ammo offers the added benefit of free shipping on select orders.
This feature is particularly valuable for bulk purchases, which can be heavy and costly to ship.
By absorbing these shipping costs on qualifying orders, Bulk Cheap Ammo provides a cost-effective solution that enhances the convenience of buying ammunition online.
The store also frequently features sales and promotions, offering additional opportunities for customers to secure greater value on their purchases.
The store’s online platform is designed for simplicity and efficiency, enabling users to quickly navigate the extensive selection, filter by caliber, brand, or type of ammunition, and place orders directly through the website.
This ease of use, when combined with the store’s competitive pricing and broad selection, positions Bulk Cheap Ammo as a top choice for those seeking to buy ammunition in bulk.
Ammo.com
In my hunt for affordable ammunition, I also explored Ammo.com.
This online platform has a reputation for offering a wide variety of ammunition from top brands at competitive prices.
Their website is user-friendly and efficient, making the shopping experience pleasant and straightforward.
The range of calibers available includes but is not limited to .22 LR, .380 ACP, and 7.62x39mm, catering to different shooting activities, whether for sport, self-defense, or hunting.
Their commitment to fast shipping and customer satisfaction, coupled with a comprehensive selection of ammunition, makes Ammo.com a viable choice for purchasing ammunition online.
My experience speaks to the convenience and ease of purchasing ammo from these online stores.
With competitive pricing, fast shipping, and a wide range of calibers available, buying ammo online has never been simpler or more accessible.
Popular Calibers
In this section, I will briefly discuss some popular calibers that you might consider when looking for cheap ammo.
These include 9mm Ammo, .45 ACP, 5.56 Ammo, 7.62×39 Ammo, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .22LR.
9mm Ammo
As one of the most commonly used calibers, 9mm ammo is affordable and widely available. It’s often the preferred choice for handguns because of its low recoil and high capacity.
45 ACP
45 ACP is a popular caliber for self-defense. Its larger size and slower speed make it an effective round for stopping power. Though it can be slightly more expensive than 9mm ammo, there are still some affordable options out there.
5.56 Ammo
5.56 Ammo is commonly used in AR-15 rifles and is known for its accuracy and versatility. I’ve found that buying in bulk can help save on cost but be aware of any shipping restrictions that may apply.
7.62×39 Ammo
7.62×39 Ammo is a classic choice for AK-47 rifles and certain SKS variants. This round has a reputation for reliability and affordability, making it a popular choice among shooters.
6.5 Creedmoor
The 6.5 Creedmoor round gained popularity in recent years as a long-range precision shooting caliber. While it tends to be a bit more expensive than some other calibers on this list, you can still find good deals if you look hard enough.
22LR
Lastly, the .22LR is a classic caliber often used for plinking, target practice, and small game hunting. Due to its low cost and low recoil, it’s an excellent option for beginner shooters.
Bulk Ammo Purchasing
Benefits of Buying in Bulk
When it comes to purchasing ammunition, I find that buying in bulk provides several advantages.
First, buying bulk ammo can save me a significant amount of money compared to buying single boxes.
Many retailers offer discounted prices on bulk ammunition purchases, which can result in substantial savings over time.
Another benefit is the convenience and efficiency of having a large stockpile on hand.
By purchasing my ammunition in bulk, I ensure that I always have enough available for my shooting needs, whether it’s for practice, self-defense, or hunting.
Additionally, having a surplus of ammo reduces the need for frequent trips to the store, freeing up more time for shooting activities.
Lastly, buying bulk ammo for sale can help me maintain a consistent supply of my preferred brand and caliber.
This is particularly important during times when ammunition may be scarce or difficult to find in the desired quantity.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial when dealing with a large quantity of bulk ammunition.
To ensure that my ammo remains in good condition, I follow these storage tips:
- Keep it cool and dry: To prevent moisture damage, I store my ammo in a cool, dry location with consistent temperatures. High heat and humidity can cause corrosion or other damage to the ammunition.
- Use proper containers: Storing ammo in sturdy, sealed containers like military surplus ammo cans or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids protects it from environmental factors and potential damage. It also makes organizing and accessing the ammunition easier.
- Label and date your ammo: I always label my ammo containers with the caliber, brand, and purchase date to keep track of which batches I’m using. This ensures I use older ammunition first and reduces the likelihood of mixing different calibers or types.
- Protect from potential hazards: Since I’m storing large amounts of ammunition, I take precautions to prevent accidents or damage. I keep my ammo away from heat sources, flammable materials, and areas that may be exposed to water or flooding.
By following these storage tips, I ensure that my ammo remains in excellent condition and ready for use when needed.
With the benefits of buying in bulk and the proper storage techniques, I can confidently maintain an ample supply of ammunition for various purposes.
Top Ammunition Brands
Winchester
I’ve always found Winchester to be a reliable source of ammunition for various purposes.
Their ammo covers a wide spectrum, from budget rounds for target practice to premium loads for hunting or self-defense.
The Winchester White Box line offers affordable and quality options for casual shooters.
Hornady
Hornady is another go-to brand for me, particularly when it comes to high-end ammunition.
They are known for their precision engineering and innovative bullet designs.
Hornady Critical Defense rounds, for example, are popular among self-defense enthusiasts for their consistent expansion and reliable performance.
Federal
Federal is a titan in the ammunition industry, and I’ve found their offerings to be top-notch.
With a reputation for excellent quality control and wide-ranging options for various shooting activities, Federal continues to impress.
One standout product is their American Eagle line, which provides shooters with dependable ammunition for practice and plinking at reasonable prices.
PMC
PMC ammunition has earned a spot on my list thanks to its cost-effectiveness and consistent performance.
Though they may not be as well-known as some of the other brands mentioned here, PMC’s offerings, such as the Bronze range, provide great value for those in search of quality yet affordable rounds for plinking and target shooting.
Remington
Last but not least, Remington is a brand I trust for both firearms and ammunition.
Their commitment to manufacturing excellence and innovation is evident in their products.
The Remington UMC line, for instance, is a budget-friendly option that works well for basic target shooting and range practice without sacrificing quality.
Ammunition for Different Purposes
Let’s break down the different purposes and types of ammo you might need.
There are three primary areas to consider: Hunting, Self Defense, and Target Shooting.
Hunting
When it comes to hunting, the specific type of ammunition you’ll need depends on the game you’re pursuing.
In general, hunting ammo should be designed to quickly and humanely take down animals.
I’ve found that using heavier bullets with an expanding design, such as hollow points or soft points, is most effective.
They provide deep penetration and energy transfer, ensuring a quicker, cleaner kill.
Different calibers and loads are suitable for various animals, such as:
- Small game: .22 LR, .17 HMR
- Medium game: .243 Winchester, .30-30 Winchester
- Large game: .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield
- Big game: .375 H&H Magnum, .416 Rigby
Self Defense
When it comes to self-defense, my main priority is stopping an attacker as quickly as possible.
For this purpose, I suggest using ammunition designed for maximum stopping power and controlled expansion.
Hollow points and jacketed hollow points (JHP) are the go-to choices in this scenario.
Some popular self-defense calibers include:
- Pistols: 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, .45 ACP
- Revolvers: .38 Special, .357 Magnum
- Shotguns: 12-gauge 00 buckshot, 20-gauge #3 buckshot
Target Shooting
Target shooting can be an enjoyable pastime and an essential training tool for honing shooting skills.
For this activity, I tend to prioritize affordable, readily available ammunition.
Full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds are ideal for this purpose, as they offer consistent performance and generally cost less than specialized hunting or self-defense ammunition.
Popular calibers for target shooting include:
- Pistol: 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, .45 ACP
- Rifle: .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, 7.62x39mm
- Shotgun: 12-gauge #7.5 or #8 birdshot, 20-gauge #7.5 or #8 birdshot
Understanding the different types of ammunition and their intended purposes will help me choose the right ammo for my needs, ensuring a successful and safe shooting experience.
Types of Bullets
FMJ
Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullets have a lead core covered by a harder metal, usually copper or similar alloy.
As a popular choice for range training and practice, FMJ rounds are well-suited for reliable feeding and function in semi-automatic firearms.
I’ve personally found that a common caliber for FMJ rounds is 5.56, which many shooters prefer due to its affordability and availability.
When it comes to the .45 ACP caliber, you can also expect reasonable ammo prices for FMJ rounds.
Hollow Points
Hollow point bullets provide a more specialized use in self-defense and hunting applications.
The hollow point design expands upon impact, creating a larger wound channel.
In my experience, this expansion helps to transfer energy more effectively and prevent over-penetration.
While hollow points may be priced slightly higher than FMJ rounds, the added performance offers greater value for those situations where stopping power matters most.
Birdshot
When it comes to shotguns, birdshot is a popular ammunition type for hunting small game like birds and squirrels.
The cartridges contain multiple small pellets that spread out to cover a wider area, increasing the chance of striking the target.
I recommend birdshot for its affordability and suitability for recreational shooting or pest control.
Buckshot
If you are in need of a more powerful shotgun load, buckshot is an ideal choice.
The larger pellets provide increased penetration and substantial stopping power at close range.
Personally, I’ve found that buckshot works well for home defense and hunting larger game like deer, as its pattern and range offer a balance between power and accuracy.
Slugs
Slugs offer the most power and accuracy among shotgun loads.
A slug is a single, solid projectile designed to deliver maximum impact and energy transfer on the target.
I consider slugs the perfect choice for hunting larger game at a greater distance or for specific law enforcement needs, where precision and stopping power are critical.
However, the increased performance often comes with a higher price tag, so it’s essential to consider your specific purpose when selecting this type of ammo.
Choosing the Best Ammo
Price and Quality
When it comes to finding the best ammo at the best price, there are several factors I consider.
First and foremost, I look for a balance between price and quality.
It’s crucial to invest in ammunition that offers reliability and accuracy without breaking the bank.
Brands like Federal, Hornady, and Winchester are known for producing top-quality rounds at affordable prices.
For instance, Federal’s Gold Medal line and Hornady’s SST range are excellent mid-range options.
- Federal Gold Medal: Offers consistent and precise performance, making them ideal for competition shooting.
- Hornady SST: Designed for accuracy and controlled expansion, perfect for hunting or self-defense.
Versatility
Another important aspect I consider when choosing the best ammo is versatility.
Some rounds are specifically designed for specific purposes, like hunting or self-defense, while others are more versatile and can be used for multiple applications.
A great example of versatile ammo is the Federal Vital-Shok.
The Vital-Shok line offers a range of calibers and bullet designs to suit different shooting needs.
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the best ammo for my firearms, I carefully consider price, quality, and versatility.
By taking these factors into account and using reliable resources, I can find the perfect ammunition to meet my shooting needs and preferences.
Conclusion
I’ve explored some of the best places to buy cheap ammo online, and I’d like to share my findings with you.
Purchasing ammunition online allows for convenience, choice, and often better pricing than local stores.
These sites are reputable and known for their high-quality products and customer service.
It’s crucial to remember that when purchasing ammunition online, understanding shipping restrictions and laws in your area is essential.
Always double-check local regulations and ensure the site you’re buying from can ship to your location.
By using the resources I’ve mentioned, you can make an informed decision on where to buy cheap ammo and ensure a satisfying experience.
Happy shooting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most affordable sources for purchasing ammunition?
In my experience, some of the most affordable sources for purchasing ammunition include online retailers, such as Bulk Cheap Ammo, Ammo.com, SGAmmo, LuckyGunner, and Palmetto State Armory.
These websites often have competitive prices and offer various types of ammo, including handgun, rifle, shotgun, and specialty rounds.
Which online stores offer the best deals on bulk ammo?
Buying in bulk often results in more significant savings.
Some online stores that stand out for their bulk ammo deals include Bulk Cheap Ammo, Ammo.com, SGAmmo, LuckyGunner, and Palmetto State Armory.
These websites often have discounts on popular ammunition calibers, making it more cost-effective to stock up on the rounds you need.
What factors affect the cost of ammunition?
Several factors influence ammunition pricing.
These include the caliber and type of round, manufacturer, and current market demand.
For example, during times of higher demand, ammo prices typically increase due to supply and demand dynamics.
How do various brands compare in terms of price and quality?
Different ammunition brands offer varying levels of quality and pricing.
Some well-known brands, such as Federal, Hornady, Winchester, and CCI, often provide high-quality ammo at competitive prices.
Customer reviews and shooting range experiences can help shooters determine the best brand for their needs and budget.
Are there any sales or discounts on ammunition to look out for?
I recommend keeping an eye on seasonal sales, clearance/discontinued items, and ongoing promotions from various online retailers.
Following your favorite stores on social media can also help you stay informed about the latest deals and discounts.
How often do ammunition prices change?
Ammunition prices can change frequently due to market conditions, supply and demand, and ongoing promotions.
It’s essential to monitor prices regularly if you are looking for the best deals.
Subscribing to newsletters from different retailers can help keep you informed of price changes and the availability of the rounds you need.