Does Dick’s Sporting Goods Store Sell Ammo

Dick’s Sporting Goods stopped selling ammunition in 2018 as part of a broader policy change following national debates on gun safety. While you won’t find bullets or ammo in their stores or online, the retailer still offers a range of shooting-related gear like targets, cleaning kits, and safety equipment.

If you’ve ever walked into a Dick’s Sporting Goods store hoping to pick up some ammunition for your next range day or hunting trip, you might have left a little confused—or even disappointed. The shelves that once held boxes of .22 LR, 9mm, or 12-gauge shells are now empty. So, does Dick’s Sporting Goods store sell ammo? The short answer is no—and it hasn’t for several years.

This shift didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of a deliberate corporate decision made in response to evolving public sentiment, tragic events, and a growing call for responsible retail practices around firearms and related products. While Dick’s still supports outdoor sports and shooting activities in many ways, ammunition is no longer part of their product lineup. Understanding why this change occurred—and what it means for consumers—can help you make smarter shopping decisions and know where to go when you need bullets.

In this article, we’ll explore the full story behind Dick’s ammo policy, what they do and don’t sell, and how you can still get the supplies you need for shooting sports. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a weekend plinker, or just curious about retail policies, this guide will give you the facts—clear, honest, and up to date.

Key Takeaways

• Dick’s no longer sells ammunition: The company discontinued ammo sales in 2018, including both centerfire and rimfire cartridges.
• Policy driven by social responsibility: The decision came after public pressure and mass shooting events, aligning with their commitment to community safety.
• Shooting accessories still available: You can buy gun safes, cleaning supplies, ear protection, and shooting targets at Dick’s.
• Online and in-store consistency: Ammo is not sold through any Dick’s channels—physical stores or e-commerce.
• Alternatives for ammo shoppers: Consider local gun shops, sporting goods retailers like Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops, or licensed online dealers.
• Age and ID requirements elsewhere: When buying ammo from other sources, you’ll need to be 18+ for rifles/shotguns and 21+ for handguns, with valid ID.
• Stay informed on policy changes: Retailers’ stances on firearms and ammo can shift, so check official sources before planning purchases.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Does Dick’s Sporting Goods sell ammunition in 2024?

No, Dick’s has not sold ammunition since 2018 and continues to exclude it from all stores and online platforms.

Why did Dick’s stop selling ammo?

The decision followed the Parkland school shooting and reflected a commitment to community safety and responsible retailing.

Can I buy gun cleaning kits at Dick’s?

Yes, Dick’s sells a variety of gun cleaning supplies, including kits, solvents, and brushes.

Where else can I buy ammunition?

Try local gun shops, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, Walmart (in select locations), or licensed online retailers.

Does Dick’s sell archery equipment?

Yes, Dick’s offers bows, arrows, and archery accessories as part of their outdoor sports lineup.

Why Did Dick’s Stop Selling Ammunition?

The decision by Dick’s Sporting Goods to stop selling ammunition was not made lightly. It came in February 2018, just days after the tragic school shooting in Parkland, Florida. At the time, the company announced a series of changes to its firearms and ammunition policies, citing a commitment to “do the right thing” for communities and families.

One of the most notable changes was the immediate discontinuation of sales of modern sporting rifles (often referred to as “assault-style” rifles) in all Dick’s stores. But the policy went further: the company also stopped selling ammunition for those firearms. Later, they expanded the ban to include all handgun ammunition, effectively ending all ammo sales across the board.

According to statements from then-CEO Edward W. Stack, the move was driven by a sense of moral responsibility. “We have heard you,” Stack wrote in a public letter. “We care about the safety of our customers and our communities.” The company also raised the minimum age to purchase firearms from 18 to 21, even in states where it wasn’t legally required.

This decision was part of a broader trend among major retailers. Walmart and Kroger also made similar changes around the same time, though Walmart still sells certain types of ammunition (like .22 LR and shotgun shells) in select locations. Dick’s, however, took a more comprehensive approach by removing all ammunition from its inventory.

It’s important to note that this wasn’t just a reaction to public pressure—it was a strategic business decision. Dick’s wanted to position itself as a family-friendly brand focused on sports, fitness, and outdoor recreation, rather than being associated with controversial firearm sales. By stepping back from ammunition, they aimed to reduce liability, improve their public image, and align with the values of a broader customer base.

What Ammunition Products Are No Longer Available?

When Dick’s Sporting Goods pulled the plug on ammunition sales, it wasn’t selective. They didn’t just stop selling certain calibers or types—they removed all ammunition from their stores and website. This means no more boxes of 9mm Luger, .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, 12-gauge shotgun shells, or even common rimfire rounds like .22 Long Rifle.

Prior to 2018, Dick’s carried a modest but practical selection of ammunition, especially for entry-level shooters and hunters. You could find bulk packs of .22 LR for target practice, standard 9mm FMJ for range use, and common shotgun loads for bird hunting. These were typically sold in the sporting goods section, near firearms, optics, and shooting accessories.

Now, those shelves are either empty or repurposed for other products like archery equipment, fishing tackle, or camping gear. If you walk into a Dick’s today and head toward the firearms section (where it still exists), you’ll likely find gun safes, cleaning kits, ear and eye protection, and gun cases—but no bullets.

Even online, a search for “ammo” or “ammunition” on the Dick’s website returns no results. The company has fully removed these items from its e-commerce platform, ensuring consistency between in-store and online shopping experiences.

This total discontinuation applies to all Dick’s Sporting Goods locations nationwide, including their specialty stores like Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream (though Field & Stream was later closed and merged into the main brand). There are no exceptions based on location or state laws.

What Shooting-Related Products Does Dick’s Still Sell?

Just because Dick’s no longer sells ammunition doesn’t mean they’ve abandoned shooting sports altogether. In fact, the company still offers a wide range of products for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts. These items support safe and responsible firearm use—without directly providing the means to fire a gun.

One of the most popular categories is gun safety and storage. Dick’s carries a variety of gun safes, lockboxes, and trigger locks from trusted brands like Liberty Safe and Stack-On. These products help prevent unauthorized access to firearms, which aligns with Dick’s stated commitment to safety.

Cleaning and maintenance supplies are also widely available. You can find gun cleaning kits, bore snakes, solvent, lubricant, and brushes for rifles, shotguns, and handguns. These essentials help shooters maintain their firearms in top condition, ensuring reliability and longevity.

Eye and ear protection is another strong category. Dick’s sells shooting glasses with UV protection and anti-fog coatings, as well as electronic earmuffs and passive earplugs designed to reduce noise exposure at the range. Brands like Howard Leight and Walker’s are commonly stocked.

Shooting targets and backstops are also available, including paper targets, reactive steel targets, and portable target stands. These allow shooters to practice safely at home or at the range.

Additionally, Dick’s offers a range of outdoor gear that supports hunting and shooting activities. This includes camouflage clothing, binoculars, rangefinders, and hunting packs. While these aren’t directly related to firing a gun, they’re essential for a successful day in the field.

It’s worth noting that Dick’s still sells archery equipment, including bows, arrows, and accessories. Archery is a shooting sport that doesn’t involve firearms or ammunition, so it fits comfortably within their current product strategy.

Where Can You Buy Ammunition Instead?

If you’re looking to purchase ammunition, you’ll need to look beyond Dick’s Sporting Goods. Fortunately, there are still plenty of options—both in physical stores and online.

Local gun shops and firearms dealers are often the most convenient choice. These stores typically carry a wide variety of ammunition, including rare or specialty calibers. They also employ knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right ammo for your firearm and intended use (e.g., target shooting, hunting, self-defense).

Large sporting goods retailers like Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops still sell ammunition in many of their locations. These stores often have extensive shooting departments with both ammo and firearms, making them a one-stop shop for shooting enthusiasts. However, availability can vary by state and store, so it’s a good idea to call ahead.

Walmart is another option, though their ammo selection is more limited. They typically carry common calibers like .22 LR, 9mm, and 12-gauge shotgun shells, but do not sell handgun ammunition in all states. Their policy also prohibits the sale of ammunition to anyone under 21.

Online retailers have become increasingly popular for ammo purchases. Websites like Ammo.com, Lucky Gunner, and Palmetto State Armory offer competitive pricing, bulk discounts, and fast shipping. However, you’ll need to ensure the retailer ships to your state, as some states have strict regulations on ammunition sales and delivery.

When buying ammo online, be prepared to provide identification and possibly complete a background check, depending on your location. Most online sellers require you to ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) if you’re also purchasing a firearm, but ammo-only orders can usually be shipped directly to your home—again, depending on state laws.

Always check local regulations before making a purchase. Some cities and states have restrictions on the types of ammunition you can buy, how much you can purchase at once, and where it can be delivered.

Understanding the Broader Retail Shift on Ammunition

Dick’s Sporting Goods wasn’t the first—and won’t be the last—retailer to rethink its stance on ammunition sales. Over the past decade, a growing number of companies have faced pressure to take a stand on gun-related products, especially in the wake of mass shootings and public demonstrations.

This shift reflects a larger cultural conversation about gun violence, Second Amendment rights, and corporate responsibility. Retailers are increasingly aware that their product offerings can impact their brand image, customer loyalty, and even stock prices.

For example, after the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, Walmart faced criticism for selling certain types of firearms and ammunition. While they didn’t stop selling guns entirely, they did remove some military-style rifles from their inventory and tightened age restrictions.

Similarly, grocery chains like Kroger and Albertsons have stopped selling firearms and ammunition in their stores, citing safety concerns and community feedback.

Even online marketplaces have changed their policies. Amazon, for instance, does not allow third-party sellers to list firearms or ammunition on its platform, though it does sell certain related accessories.

These changes highlight a trend toward “responsible retailing”—a concept where companies weigh profit against social impact. For Dick’s, the decision to stop selling ammo was part of a broader effort to position itself as a brand that supports sports and outdoor activities, but not necessarily the most controversial aspects of firearm culture.

It’s also worth noting that these policies can evolve. In the future, public sentiment, legal changes, or corporate leadership shifts could lead retailers to revisit their stance on ammunition. But as of 2024, Dick’s remains firm in its decision.

Practical Tips for Ammunition Shoppers

If you’re a regular shooter or hunter, the absence of ammunition at Dick’s means you’ll need to adjust your shopping habits. Here are some practical tips to help you stay stocked and shoot safely:

First, build relationships with local gun shops. These small businesses often offer personalized service, loyalty programs, and insider knowledge about ammo availability. They may also notify you when rare calibers come in stock.

Second, consider buying in bulk when possible. Ammunition prices can fluctuate due to supply chain issues, demand spikes, or geopolitical events. Purchasing larger quantities during sales or promotions can save money in the long run—just make sure you have safe storage.

Third, stay informed about state and local laws. Some states require background checks for ammo purchases, while others limit how much you can buy at once. Knowing the rules helps you avoid legal trouble and ensures smooth transactions.

Fourth, explore online retailers for better selection and pricing. Many online stores offer free shipping on large orders and have user reviews to help you choose the right product. Just double-check that they ship to your area.

Finally, prioritize safety. Always store ammunition in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and out of reach of children. Use original packaging or labeled containers to avoid confusion.

By planning ahead and knowing where to shop, you can continue enjoying shooting sports—even without Dick’s in your ammo rotation.

Conclusion

So, does Dick’s Sporting Goods store sell ammo? The answer is a clear and consistent no. Since 2018, the retailer has removed all ammunition from its inventory as part of a broader commitment to community safety and responsible retailing. While this may be disappointing for some customers, it reflects a larger shift in how major companies approach controversial products.

That said, Dick’s still supports shooting sports in meaningful ways—through safety equipment, maintenance supplies, and outdoor gear. And for those who need ammunition, plenty of alternatives exist, from local gun shops to online retailers.

The key is to stay informed, plan ahead, and shop responsibly. Whether you’re hitting the range or heading into the woods, knowing where to go and what to expect ensures you’re always prepared.

As retail policies continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: safety, legality, and respect for community values should always come first. And while Dick’s may no longer sell ammo, their influence on the conversation around responsible gun ownership is undeniable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dick’s Sporting Goods sell ammunition online?

No, Dick’s does not sell ammunition through its website or any online platform. The company removed all ammo from its e-commerce inventory in 2018.

Can I return ammunition to Dick’s if I bought it elsewhere?

Dick’s does not accept returns of ammunition, even if purchased elsewhere, due to safety and legal restrictions on firearm-related products.

Does Dick’s sell firearms?

Dick’s no longer sells modern sporting rifles or handguns. They discontinued firearm sales in 2018, though some older policies allowed limited sales prior to that.

Are there any Dick’s stores that still sell ammo?

No, the ammunition ban applies to all Dick’s Sporting Goods locations nationwide, including former Field & Stream stores.

What age do I need to be to buy ammo at other stores?

You must be at least 18 years old to purchase rifle or shotgun ammunition, and 21 or older for handgun ammunition, with valid government-issued ID.

Will Dick’s ever start selling ammunition again?

There is no indication that Dick’s plans to resume ammo sales. The company has maintained its policy for over six years and continues to emphasize safety and community values.