Does Walmart Carry .380 Ammo? A Seasoned Expert Weighs In

The short answer is no, Walmart does not currently sell .380 ammunition. This wasn’t always the case, but a policy change in 2019 significantly altered Walmart’s stance on ammunition sales, restricting the types of ammunition they carry. Let’s delve into the specifics of this policy and explore the reasons behind it, along with answers to common questions about Walmart’s ammunition offerings.

Understanding Walmart’s Ammunition Policy

Walmart’s decision to discontinue selling certain types of ammunition was driven by a combination of factors, including public sentiment, corporate responsibility considerations, and business strategy. The shift was a significant one, impacting the availability of certain cartridges popular among handgun owners.

The 2019 Policy Change

In 2019, Walmart announced that it would discontinue the sale of handgun ammunition and short-barrel rifle ammunition, specifically .223 caliber and 5.56 caliber, after exhausting its current inventory. This meant the end of .380 ammo sales at Walmart, along with 9mm, .40 caliber, and .45 caliber. The company cited a desire to focus on ammunition suited for hunting and sporting purposes.

Why the Change?

The reasons behind Walmart’s policy shift were multifaceted:

• Public Perception: Following several high-profile mass shootings, there was increased pressure on retailers to reduce access to firearms and related products.
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Walmart, like many large corporations, has been actively focusing on its social responsibility initiatives, including gun safety.
• Business Strategy: Walmart also cited a desire to shift its focus to more traditional hunting and sporting goods, which align with its core customer base in many rural areas.

What Ammo Does Walmart Still Sell?

While handgun ammunition and certain rifle rounds are no longer available, Walmart continues to sell a selection of ammunition primarily used for hunting and sporting activities. This generally includes:

• Shotgun ammunition: Various gauges used for hunting and clay shooting.
• Rifle ammunition: Larger caliber rifle rounds suitable for hunting, such as .270, .30-06, and .308.
• .22 Long Rifle: This popular rimfire cartridge is used for target shooting, small game hunting, and plinking.

Where Can You Buy .380 Ammo?

If Walmart isn’t an option, where can you reliably purchase .380 ammunition?

• Local Gun Stores: These are often the best resource for a wide selection of ammunition, including .380.
• Online Retailers: Websites specializing in ammunition sales offer a convenient way to shop, but be mindful of shipping restrictions and background check requirements. Popular sites include Ammo.com, Brownells, and MidwayUSA.
• Sporting Goods Stores: Large chains like Academy Sports + Outdoors and Bass Pro Shops typically carry a broad range of ammunition, including .380, depending on local regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Walmart and Ammunition

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to provide further clarity on Walmart’s ammunition policies and alternative purchasing options:

1. When Did Walmart Stop Selling .380 Ammo?

Walmart officially stopped selling .380 ammunition, along with other handgun cartridges, after its 2019 policy change, phasing out inventory as it was depleted.

2. Does Walmart Sell Any Handgun Ammunition?

No, currently, Walmart does not sell any handgun ammunition. The 2019 policy specifically targeted handgun rounds.

3. Can I Order Ammunition Online and Have It Shipped to a Walmart Store?

No, Walmart does not offer a “ship to store” option for ammunition purchased online, particularly for ammunition they no longer sell in-store.

4. What Kind of Background Check is Required to Buy Ammunition?

Background check requirements for ammunition purchases vary by state. Some states require a full background check similar to purchasing a firearm, while others have no such requirement. Always check your local laws.

5. Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Ammunition I Can Buy?

Some states and local jurisdictions have restrictions on the quantity of ammunition you can purchase at one time. These restrictions are not related to Walmart’s policy, but rather, local laws.

6. Does Walmart Sell Gun Accessories?

Yes, Walmart continues to sell a variety of gun accessories, including gun cleaning supplies, gun safes, and certain types of scopes and optics. However, their selection may be limited compared to specialized gun stores.

7. Will Walmart Ever Sell .380 Ammo Again?

Given the current political climate and Walmart’s stated policies, it is unlikely that they will resume selling .380 ammunition or other handgun cartridges in the foreseeable future.

8. What is the Cheapest Place to Buy .380 Ammo?

The cheapest place to buy .380 ammo can vary depending on sales, promotions, and bulk discounts. Online retailers often offer competitive pricing, but consider shipping costs. Comparing prices across multiple vendors is always recommended.

9. Does Walmart Sell Gun Powder or Primers?

Walmart does not typically sell reloading supplies such as gun powder or primers. These items are usually found at specialized gun stores or online retailers that cater to reloaders.

10. What Alternatives are There to .380 Ammunition?

For self-defense purposes, consider other handgun calibers like 9mm, which is widely available and often more affordable. The choice depends on personal preference, firearm availability, and local regulations.

11. Do Walmart’s Ammunition Policies Affect All States?

Yes, Walmart’s policy regarding handgun ammunition applies to all of its stores nationwide, regardless of state or local laws. However, state and local laws still govern who can purchase ammunition and how much they can buy.

12. Can I Return Ammunition to Walmart?

Ammunition sales are typically final, and returns are generally not accepted due to safety concerns. However, it’s best to check Walmart’s specific return policy at the time of purchase or consult with a store representative.