As hunting season begins in many states, ammunition shortages remain a significant issue for gun owners and hunters. Although demand surges are typical during this time of year, ongoing supply chain challenges and high demand across the firearm community have exacerbated the problem, leading to limited stock in popular calibers such as 9mm, .223, and .308.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) reports that high demand combined with labor shortages and raw material supply constraints, particularly in brass and powder, continue to impact production. Many manufacturers are working to increase output, but the surge in gun ownership over the past few years has kept demand consistently above pre-2020 levels. Some producers, such as Vista Outdoor and Remington, are reportedly expanding facilities or adding extra shifts to keep up with demand, but shipping delays and sourcing challenges still persist.
According to local firearm retailers, some hunters are planning ahead by purchasing ammunition early or seeking alternative calibers that are less affected by shortages. Experts advise gun owners to purchase in bulk when they find stock available, although this may not always be feasible given the rising costs. Some industry analysts predict that it could take well into 2025 for supply levels to stabilize fully.
These ongoing challenges come as the country’s ammunition industry works to balance unprecedented consumer demand and disruptions in production. Gun owners are encouraged to keep an eye on inventory updates from local retailers and online suppliers to manage availability through the hunting season and beyond.
