Does Walmart Sell 9mm Ammunition (2025)? A Comprehensive Guide

As of late 2024, Walmart does not sell 9mm ammunition. In 2019, Walmart ceased the sale of handgun ammunition, including the popular 9mm round, across all of its stores. This policy remains in effect, and there are no publicly available indications suggesting a reversal of this decision by 2025.

Walmart’s Evolving Stance on Ammunition Sales

Walmart’s history with ammunition sales is complex and has evolved significantly over time. For many years, Walmart was a major retailer of firearms and ammunition, particularly in rural areas where it often served as a primary source for these products. However, following several high-profile mass shootings and growing public pressure, the company began to reassess its position on firearms and ammunition.

The 2019 Policy Change: A Turning Point

The pivotal moment arrived in 2019 when Walmart announced a significant shift in its firearms and ammunition sales policy. This decision was driven by a combination of factors, including:

• Public sentiment: Mounting public concern over gun violence and calls for stricter gun control measures.
• Business considerations: Weighing the financial implications against reputational risks.
• Internal reviews: A comprehensive internal review of the company’s policies and practices related to firearms.

The policy change involved several key elements:

• Discontinuation of handgun ammunition sales: This included 9mm, .40 caliber, and .45 caliber ammunition.
• Ceasing sales of short-barrel rifles: This meant no longer offering AR-15s and similar firearms.
• Requesting customers to refrain from openly carrying firearms: In states where open carry is permitted, Walmart asked customers to respect the company’s wishes and not openly carry firearms in stores.

This policy shift marked a clear departure from Walmart’s previous position and solidified its stance on reducing its involvement in the sale of firearms and ammunition associated with handguns and military-style rifles.

Why 9mm Ammunition? The Context Behind the Decision

The decision to specifically target 9mm ammunition was largely due to its widespread use in handguns, which are often implicated in criminal activities. The 9mm cartridge is one of the most popular and widely used handgun rounds globally, favored for its balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and relatively low cost.

By removing 9mm ammunition from its shelves, Walmart aimed to reduce the availability of a commonly used handgun round, thereby contributing to efforts to curb gun violence. This decision, while controversial among some gun owners, was seen by others as a responsible step towards addressing a complex societal issue.

Alternatives to Walmart for Purchasing 9mm Ammunition

Despite Walmart’s decision to stop selling 9mm ammunition, consumers have several alternative options for purchasing this type of ammunition. These include:

• Sporting Goods Stores: Retailers like Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, and Dick’s Sporting Goods (though Dick’s has also reduced its firearms offerings) generally carry a wide selection of ammunition, including 9mm.
• Local Gun Shops: Independent gun shops and firearm dealers are a primary source for ammunition and often offer a wider variety of brands and types than larger retailers.
• Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in ammunition sales and can ship directly to customers’ homes (subject to state and local laws). Examples include Ammo.com, Brownells, and MidwayUSA. However, it’s crucial to verify that the retailer complies with all applicable regulations and that the customer is legally eligible to purchase ammunition in their state.
• Outdoor and Hunting Supply Stores: Stores specializing in hunting and outdoor equipment often carry ammunition, including 9mm, particularly in areas where hunting is popular.

It is essential to be aware of the laws surrounding ammunition purchases in your state, as they can vary significantly. Some states require background checks for ammunition purchases, while others have restrictions on the types of ammunition that can be sold.

The Future of Ammunition Sales at Walmart

Looking ahead to 2025, it is highly unlikely that Walmart will reverse its decision to stop selling 9mm ammunition. The company has consistently maintained its commitment to reducing its involvement in the sale of firearms and ammunition associated with handguns and military-style rifles.

Furthermore, the political and social climate surrounding gun control remains highly charged, and any move by Walmart to resume selling 9mm ammunition would likely face significant public opposition. Given these factors, it is reasonable to assume that Walmart will continue to adhere to its current policy in 2025 and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Did Walmart ever sell 9mm ammunition?

Yes, Walmart used to sell 9mm ammunition before its 2019 policy change.

2. Why did Walmart stop selling 9mm ammunition?

Walmart stopped selling 9mm ammunition as part of a broader policy change aimed at reducing its involvement in firearms sales and responding to concerns about gun violence.

3. Does Walmart sell any type of ammunition currently?

Yes, Walmart still sells some types of ammunition, primarily those used for hunting rifles and shotguns. The company focuses on ammunition used for sporting purposes.

4. Can I still buy rifles at Walmart?

Walmart sells long guns intended for hunting and sporting purposes. The company has discontinued the sale of short-barrel rifles, like AR-15s.

5. Are there any exceptions to Walmart’s ammunition policy?

There are generally no exceptions to Walmart’s current ammunition policy. The company adheres to a consistent standard across all its stores.

6. How does Walmart’s ammunition policy compare to other retailers?

Walmart’s policy is more restrictive than some other retailers, such as Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, which continue to sell a wider range of ammunition, including 9mm. Dick’s Sporting Goods has also implemented stricter policies on firearms and ammunition sales.

7. Will Walmart ever sell 9mm ammunition again?

While it’s impossible to predict the future with certainty, it is unlikely that Walmart will resume selling 9mm ammunition given its current stance and the prevailing social and political climate.

8. Where else can I buy 9mm ammunition?

You can purchase 9mm ammunition from sporting goods stores, local gun shops, and online retailers.

9. What are the legal requirements for buying ammunition?

Legal requirements for buying ammunition vary by state. Some states require background checks, while others have restrictions on the types of ammunition that can be sold.

10. Does Walmart sell gun safes?

Yes, Walmart does sell gun safes and other firearm storage devices.

11. Has Walmart’s policy affected the price of 9mm ammunition?

Walmart’s policy change may have had a minor impact on the local availability and potentially the price of 9mm ammunition, but the overall market is influenced by numerous factors, including supply, demand, and geopolitical events.

12. How can I stay informed about changes in Walmart’s firearms and ammunition policy?

You can stay informed by monitoring Walmart’s corporate website, news releases, and media coverage. It’s also advisable to check with local Walmart stores for any specific updates.