📅 2026 Update: Changes in Ammunition Laws and Regulations

Since the original article was published, several significant changes have taken place regarding ammunition laws in the U.S. These changes impact who can possess ammunition, how it can be sold, and what types of ammunition are regulated. Readers can find the earlier information about ammunition laws further down the page.

⚖️ Supreme Court Ruling on Domestic Violence

In June 2024, the Supreme Court made an important ruling in *United States v. Rahimi*. The court decided that Congress can prevent individuals who are subject to domestic violence restraining orders from having firearms and ammunition.

This change affects the eligibility rules for who can own ammunition in the U.S.

🔄 Changes to the U.S. Munitions List

On August 28, 2026, the U.S. Munitions List was updated. This amendment now includes firearms that use caseless ammunition, fully automatic firearms up to .50 caliber, and firearms designed for advanced features like automatic tracking.

These changes expand the types of firearms that are regulated under federal law.

💵 Federal Firearms License Fees

As of October 7, 2026, the application fee for a Federal Firearms License (FFL) to import, manufacture, or sell firearms and ammunition continues to be outlined under 18 U.S.C. § 923. Applicants must be aware of these fees when considering entering the firearms business.

📋 Background Checks for Ammunition Purchases

Currently, federal law does not require background checks for purchasing ammunition. However, several states have implemented their own systems that may require background checks for buyers. This variation can significantly impact how individuals acquire ammunition depending on their state.

📌 Key Changes Summary

  • ⚖️ Supreme Court ruling allows Congress to restrict ammunition possession for those under domestic violence orders.
  • 🔄 U.S. Munitions List now includes firearms with caseless ammunition and advanced features.
  • 💵 FFL application fees are specified under federal law.
  • 📋 Federal law does not require background checks for ammunition, but some states do.

💡 Tips for Understanding Ammunition Laws

It's important to review your specific situation with your attorney.

📜 Know Your Eligibility

Understand who is prohibited from possessing ammunition. This includes convicted felons, those with domestic violence convictions, and individuals adjudicated as mentally defective. Knowing these rules can help prevent legal issues.

📦 Buying Ammunition Online

While purchasing ammunition online is legal under federal law, be aware that state laws may impose additional restrictions. Check your state’s rules to avoid complications when buying ammunition online.

🏠 Storing Ammunition Safely

Federal law does not limit the amount of ammunition you can own, but you must store it according to local fire codes. Make sure to follow these regulations to ensure safety at home.

🔄 Manufacturing Your Own Ammunition

Individuals can legally make their own ammunition for personal use without a license. This allows for self-sufficiency but should be done in compliance with local laws.

📈 Keeping Up with Changes

Stay updated on any changes to firearms and ammunition laws. Regulations can change frequently, and being informed helps ensure compliance.

🏆 Ammunition Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

Different services are available for those interested in firearms and ammunition. These services cover areas like purchasing, manufacturing, and storing ammunition. The following order is based on Trustpilot data checked in October 2026.

Remember that scores can change, and unhappy customers often leave more reviews, which may affect the average ratings.

🥇 1. StealthGearUSA

StealthGearUSA has been rated 4.3 out of 5. This company is known for its concealed carry holsters and innovative firearm accessories. Reviewers often mention the quality of the products, but some customers have reported delays in shipping times.

🆓 ATF Resources

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) offers free resources and guidance on federal firearms and ammunition laws. This can be a helpful starting point for anyone seeking to understand their rights and responsibilities regarding ammunition.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Services

  • 📊 Trustpilot ratings and review counts
  • 🏷 Type of ammunition and firearms offered
  • 🚚 Shipping policies and delivery times
  • 📄 Customer support and resources provided

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the age restrictions for buying ammunition?

Individuals must be at least 21 years old to buy handgun ammunition. For rifle and shotgun ammunition, the minimum age is 18.

💼 Can I sell ammunition without a license?

Yes, federal law does not require a license to sell commercially manufactured ammunition. However, a license is needed if you are manufacturing or importing ammunition for sale.

📦 Are there limits on how much ammunition I can own?

There are no federal limits on the amount of ammunition you can own. However, local regulations may apply regarding storage.

🔍 Is it legal to purchase ammunition in another state?

Federal law does not prohibit purchasing ammunition in another state. However, state laws may impose additional restrictions or require background checks.

🏠 What should I know about storing ammunition?

While there is no federal limit on the amount of ammunition owned, storage must comply with local fire codes and regulations to ensure safety.

💻 Can I buy ammunition online?

Yes, buying ammunition online is legal under federal law. However, state laws may have additional restrictions, such as requiring background checks or limiting direct shipments to homes.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Ammunition Laws

Recent court rulings have clarified important aspects of ammunition laws, particularly regarding who can possess firearms and ammunition. These rulings can significantly impact current and future regulations.

For more information, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Because there is legislation regarding the use, possession, carrying, and ownership of firearms, it is deemed logical and necessary that gun ammunition also be regulated in a similar fashion. Much like firearm regulations, ammunition laws exist at both the federal and state levels, allowing states to further control gun ammunition by instituting more regulations and laws to restrict the ammunition as they deem appropriate. 

Federal ammunition laws serve as a template and guide that all states must adhere to. Provisions and additional restrictions may be imposed by each individual state, as far as they do not infringe on the federal laws. Federal law prohibits the possession and transfer of any kind of ammunition by convicted felons, and individuals with a history of substance abuse--including illegal drugs, alcohol, and controlled substances--and those with domestic violence restraining orders. 


What Are The Ammunition Specific Laws


Federal law also restricts the sale of gun ammunition to those under the age of 18. Handgun ammunition may not be sold to or bought by anyone under the age of 21. Other federal provisions include the restriction of gun ammunition to the following:

     Illegal aliens



     Individuals that have renounced U.S. citizenship



     Individuals legally considered to have a mental disability



     Individuals committed to a mental facility, either voluntarily or otherwise



     Individuals dishonorably discharged from the military and armed forces of the U.S.

Certain states impose certain restrictions and regulations that further control the transaction, possession, and carrying of gun ammunition. Certain states may employ some of the same restrictions as imposed by the state, but adjusting them in such a way that would make them more restrictive without violating federal law. Other states require a certain kind of permit in order to purchase ammunition. 



Certain states also regulate the type of ammunition that an individual may purchase or possess. The states of Illinois, Massachusetts, and Delaware all impose extra provisions on the requirements of federal law to legally be in possession of gun ammunition. Illinois implements that no person with misdemeanor convictions may possess ammunition. This provision does exclude traffic violations. 



Any person that is considered to be a juvenile delinquent is also barred. Massachusetts employs similar restrictions, but also adds that any person under age of 15 may not posses any gun ammunition. Those over the age of 15 may possess gun ammunition under written consent of a parent or legal guardian. Delaware restricts any person under the age of 25 that has been considered a juvenile delinquent in the past from possessing ammunition. 



Furthermore, Illinois and Massachusetts both require a permit in order purchase ammunition as well as firearms. These permits, called firearm identification card (FOID), must be presented at the time of purchase to legally acquire firearms or ammunition. The application for a FOID card must be made with the proper law enforcement authority or organization, and each applicant is subject to pass a criminal background check before being eligible to receive the permit. 



Massachusetts goes one step further by designating two classes of FOID cards. Class A FOID cards are available to those over the age of 21 legally permitted to purchase firearms and gun ammunition. Class B FOID cards are issued to applicants over the age of 18, and restricts the purchase of gun ammunition for smaller capacity firearms.


There are also many states that impose regulations on the type of ammunition that can be bought, sold, or possessed with the limits of their borders. The following all have restrictions on Armor-Piercing Ammunition, and provide for their own unique methods of employing those regulations: Alabama, California, Connecticut, Indiana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Michigan, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Some states also have restrictions on large-capacity magazines.

A magazine is a storage and feeding device that eliminates the need to reload each individual cartridge before discharging. Each of these states defines a large-capacity magazine by its own standards, which range from a maximum of ten to a maximum of twenty: California, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York. For the exception of Hawaii, this restriction applies to all types of firearms; Hawaii restricts only handguns from having large-capacity magazines.