Is there a difference between military surplus ammo and commercial ammo?

Military Surplus Ammo vs. Commercial Ammo: Understanding the Differences

When shopping for ammunition, you may come across terms such as “military surplus” and “commercial.” For the casual observer, the differences might seem minor or merely a matter of branding. However, the distinction between military surplus and commercial ammunition is important for both experienced gun enthusiasts and novices alike. Let’s delve into the unique characteristics of each, as well as their benefits and potential drawbacks.

1. Definition and Origin

• Military Surplus Ammunition:
• This refers to ammunition originally produced for military use but is now being sold to the general public because it’s no longer needed or has been replaced by newer stock. This ammunition can range from antique cartridges from previous world wars to more recent production lots.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Produced explicitly for sale to civilians and law enforcement. It’s manufactured by both large, well-known companies and smaller boutique firms, catering to various shooting needs, from hunting to sport shooting and self-defense.

2. Production Standards

• Military Surplus:
• Standards: Military ammunition is produced under strict guidelines to ensure functionality in the harsh conditions of warfare. This might include rigorous waterproofing, hard primers to avoid accidental discharges in machine guns, and specific bullet designs.
• Consistency: Military batches aim for consistency, but there might be variations between lots, especially from different years or nations.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Variety: Commercial ammo comes in a vast range of types and qualities, from economical range ammo to premium hunting or self-defense rounds.
• Customization: Commercial manufacturers often produce specialized rounds catering to niche markets, such as specific hunting needs or competition shooting.

3. Packaging

• Military Surplus:
• Often packaged for long-term storage and harsh conditions. This might include “spam cans” — sealed metal containers that can be opened with a provided tool — or vacuum-sealed battle packs.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Typically packaged in cardboard boxes or plastic trays. Some premium or specialty rounds may come in durable plastic containers.

4. Age and Storage

• Military Surplus:
• Given that it’s surplus, this ammo can be old. Depending on how it was stored, age could affect performance or safety. Corrosion or deteriorated powder can be concerns.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Generally, it’s newer, unless it has been stored by the buyer for an extended period. Storage conditions still matter, but there’s less risk associated with aging when bought fresh.

5. Bullet Types and Features

• Military Surplus:
• Often features full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets due to international conventions like the Hague Accord, which prohibit the use of expanding bullets in international warfare.
• Some military cartridges have features like steel cores or tracers, which might not be suitable or legal for all civilian shooting applications.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Offers a vast range of bullet types, including FMJ, hollow point (HP), soft point (SP), ballistic tip, and more. This variety allows for specific selection based on the intended use.

6. Cost

• Military Surplus:
• One of its main attractions is cost-efficiency. Buying in bulk can lead to significant savings compared to commercial ammo.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Prices vary widely based on brand, bullet type, and quality. While some budget options might rival military surplus in price, premium rounds can be considerably more expensive.

7. Potential Issues and Considerations

• Military Surplus:
• Corrosive Primers: Older military ammo might have corrosive primers, which leave residues that can rust and damage a firearm if not cleaned promptly and thoroughly.
• Hard Primers: Some military rounds have hard primers designed for machine guns. These might cause occasional misfires in civilian firearms.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Quality Range: The vast array of options means quality can range from excellent to poor. Research and reviews are crucial when trying out unfamiliar brands or lines.

8. Best Use Cases

• Military Surplus:
• Often favored for economical shooting, like plinking or range practice.
• Commercial Ammunition:
• Due to the variety, commercial ammo can be tailored to specific needs, from competition and hunting to self-defense.

Conclusion

Both military surplus and commercial ammunition have their unique sets of advantages and potential drawbacks. The choice between them largely depends on the shooter’s needs, preferences, and budget. While military surplus can offer cost-effective shooting, commercial ammunition provides versatility and specialization. Whatever the choice, it’s always vital to ensure the chosen ammunition is suitable and safe for the firearm in use and to be mindful of storage conditions and potential aging issues.