JWR:
Just a note about current firearms inventories at the major distributors from a 25 year industry veteran. A majority of the medium to large size firearms wholesalers are experiencing significant stock shortages and inventories are at a “historic low”. AR and AK inventories (regardless of manufacture or builder) are drying up very fast. Most wholesalers are not taking back-orders from dealers on these items until the smoke clears. Even handgun inventories are starting to get very thin, especially center-fire semi-autos. The situation on ammo is better, but many industry retail purchasing agents coming out of this year’s SHOT Show where warned by several major ammunition manufactures about this year’s third and fourth quarter demand will likely outstrip availability and most manufactures are at, or near full capacity.
But I have some good news for reloaders: Most major brands of powder, primers, and bullets are back in stock to pre-2008 levels and primer prices have come down considerably in the last 12 months (at least at the wholesale level). Group buys from major inter-net component providers can give you the lowest delivered cost, especially with rising shipping and hazmat fees. Take the time to talk to your dealer about your local situation and act accordingly. – Rick S.
JWR Replies: I have noticed that guns shows have become noticeably more crowded in recent months. Even a tiny little 25 table show at a nearby Elks Lodge was so packed that I could scarcely walk from table to table. There is definitely some well-justified angst in the country about the upcoming presidential election. The general consensus seems to be that President Bolt Hold Open (BHO) will take the gloves off, if he gets re-elected. We can expect a flurry of executive orders that as a minimum would ban the importation of most semi-auto firearms, 11+ round magazines, and all military gun parts sets. Stock up, folks!