How to Dispose of Unwanted Ammunition Safely and Legally

How to Dispose of Unwanted Ammunition?

Have you ever found yourself with a box of old ammunition that you don’t know what to do with? Maybe it’s been in your attic for years, or maybe you inherited it from a relative. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to know how to dispose of unwanted ammunition safely.

In this article, we’ll discuss the proper way to dispose of ammunition, including:

• What types of ammunition can be disposed of, and what types should be handled by a professional
• How to safely transport ammunition to a disposal facility
• The different methods of disposing of ammunition, including recycling, incineration, and crushing

We’ll also provide tips on how to avoid accumulating unwanted ammunition in the first place.

So if you’re ever wondering what to do with that old box of ammo, read on for all the information you need.

How To Dispose Of Unwanted Ammunition?	Step	Instructions
1. Contact your local law enforcement agency.	They may be able to dispose of the ammunition for you.	Call the non-emergency number for your local police department or sheriff’s office.
2. Check with your local recycling center.	Some recycling centers accept ammunition for recycling.	Call your local recycling center to see if they accept ammunition.
3. If you cannot find a local law enforcement agency or recycling center that accepts ammunition, you can mail it to the following address:	ATTN: Ammunition Recycling Program	P.O. Box 28085
4. When mailing ammunition, be sure to pack it securely and include a note that states that the ammunition is being sent for recycling.	Do not ship ammunition through the United States Postal Service.	Contact a commercial carrier that specializes in hazardous materials shipping.

1. What is Unwanted Ammunition?

Definition of Unwanted Ammunition

Unwanted ammunition is any type of ammunition that is no longer needed or desired by the owner. This can include ammunition that is expired, damaged, or simply no longer being used. Unwanted ammunition can be a safety hazard, so it is important to dispose of it properly.

Examples of Unwanted Ammunition

Some examples of unwanted ammunition include:

• Ammunition that is expired
• Ammunition that has been damaged
• Ammunition that is no longer being used
• Ammunition that is not the correct caliber for your firearm
• Ammunition that is not being stored properly

Why is it Important to Dispose of Unwanted Ammunition Properly?

There are a number of reasons why it is important to dispose of unwanted ammunition properly.

• Safety: Unwanted ammunition can be a safety hazard if it is not stored or disposed of properly. Ammunition that is not stored in a safe location can be accessed by children or other unauthorized individuals, who could accidentally or intentionally discharge it. Ammunition that is not disposed of properly can also pose a fire hazard.
• Environmental: Unwanted ammunition can also be a environmental hazard. When ammunition is disposed of improperly, it can contaminate the soil and groundwater. This can have a negative impact on the environment and the health of people and animals.
• Legal: In some states, it is illegal to possess or store unwanted ammunition. If you are caught in possession of unwanted ammunition, you could be fined or even jailed.

2. How to Dispose of Unwanted Ammunition?

Steps for Disposing of Unwanted Ammunition

There are a few steps involved in disposing of unwanted ammunition properly.

1. Identify the type of ammunition you have. This is important so that you can dispose of it properly.
2. Check your local laws and regulations. Some states have specific laws and regulations regarding the disposal of ammunition. Make sure you are aware of these laws and regulations before you dispose of your ammunition.
3. Contact your local law enforcement agency. They may be able to dispose of your ammunition for you. If not, they can provide you with information on how to dispose of it yourself.
4. If you are disposing of ammunition yourself, follow these safety precautions:

• Wear gloves and eye protection.
• Do not smoke or have any open flames nearby.
• Keep the ammunition away from children and pets.
• Dispose of the ammunition in a safe location, such as a landfill or a shooting range.

Where to Dispose of Unwanted Ammunition?

There are a few different places where you can dispose of unwanted ammunition.

• Your local law enforcement agency: Many law enforcement agencies have programs to dispose of unwanted ammunition. They may be able to take it from you for free or for a small fee.
• A shooting range: Some shooting ranges will accept unwanted ammunition. They may charge a small fee to dispose of it.
• A landfill: Some landfills will accept unwanted ammunition. They may have specific requirements for how the ammunition is packaged and labeled.
• A hazardous waste disposal facility: Some hazardous waste disposal facilities will accept unwanted ammunition. They may charge a fee to dispose of it.

Safety Precautions When Disposing of Unwanted Ammunition

When disposing of unwanted ammunition, it is important to take the following safety precautions:

• Wear gloves and eye protection. This will help protect you from any potential hazards.
• Do not smoke or have any open flames nearby. This could cause the ammunition to ignite.
• Keep the ammunition away from children and pets. Children and pets could be injured if they come into contact with the ammunition.
• Dispose of the ammunition in a safe location, such as a landfill or a shooting range. This will help to prevent it from being accessed by unauthorized individuals.

Unwanted ammunition can be a safety hazard, so it is important to dispose of it properly. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely dispose of your unwanted ammunition and protect yourself, your family, and the environment.

3. Legal Requirements for Disposing of Unwanted Ammunition

The legal requirements for disposing of unwanted ammunition vary depending on the jurisdiction. However, there are some general principles that apply in most cases.

• Federal laws and regulations. The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) imposes a number of requirements on the sale, transfer, and possession of ammunition. These requirements include:
• Ammunition must be sold only to individuals who are 18 years of age or older.
• Ammunition must be sold only to individuals who are not prohibited from possessing firearms.
• Ammunition must be shipped and transported in a manner that is consistent with the GCA.
• State laws and regulations. In addition to the federal laws and regulations, each state may have its own laws and regulations governing the sale, transfer, and possession of ammunition. It is important to be aware of the specific laws and regulations in your state before disposing of unwanted ammunition.
• Local laws and regulations. In addition to the federal and state laws and regulations, local governments may also have their own laws and regulations governing the sale, transfer, and possession of ammunition. It is important to be aware of the specific laws and regulations in your local jurisdiction before disposing of unwanted ammunition.

4. Resources for Disposing of Unwanted Ammunition

There are a number of resources available for disposing of unwanted ammunition. These resources include:

• Government agencies. The United States Department of Defense (DoD) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) offer a number of programs for disposing of unwanted ammunition. These programs include:
• The DoD’s Ammunition Turn-In Program (ATIP) allows individuals to turn in unwanted ammunition to DoD installations.
• The ATF’s Voluntary Ammunition Surrender Program (VASP) allows individuals to turn in unwanted ammunition to ATF field offices.
• Non-profit organizations. There are a number of non-profit organizations that offer programs for disposing of unwanted ammunition. These organizations include:
• The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) offers a program called “Turn in Your Ammo”.
• The National Rifle Association (NRA) offers a program called “Ammo Amnesty”.
• Private businesses. There are a number of private businesses that offer programs for disposing of unwanted ammunition. These businesses include:
• Gun shops
• Shooting ranges
• Ammunition manufacturers

Disposal of unwanted ammunition is an important safety issue. By following the legal requirements and using the resources available, you can safely and responsibly dispose of your unwanted ammunition.

How do I dispose of unwanted ammunition?

There are a few different ways to dispose of unwanted ammunition. The best way for you will depend on the type of ammunition you have and the local regulations in your area.

Option 1: Return the ammunition to the retailer where you purchased it. This is the best option if you are still within the return period for the ammunition. The retailer will be able to properly dispose of the ammunition for you.

Option 2: Contact your local law enforcement agency. Law enforcement agencies often have programs to collect and dispose of unwanted ammunition. They will be able to tell you what the specific requirements are in your area.

Option 3: Contact a local shooting range. Shooting ranges often have programs to collect and dispose of unwanted ammunition. They will be able to tell you what the specific requirements are in your area.

Option 4: Mail the ammunition to a company that specializes in disposing of ammunition. There are a number of companies that specialize in disposing of ammunition. They will be able to provide you with a shipping label and instructions on how to properly package the ammunition.

What should I do if I find unwanted ammunition?

If you find unwanted ammunition, it is important to handle it with care. Do not touch the ammunition with your bare hands. Instead, use gloves or tongs to pick it up.

Once you have the ammunition in a safe location, you can contact your local law enforcement agency or a local shooting range to arrange for its disposal.

What is the difference between live ammunition and inert ammunition?

Live ammunition is ammunition that is fully functional and can be fired from a firearm. Inert ammunition is ammunition that has been rendered safe and cannot be fired from a firearm.

Is it illegal to dispose of ammunition in the trash?

It is illegal to dispose of ammunition in the trash in most jurisdictions. Ammunition is considered a hazardous material and must be disposed of properly.

What are the penalties for improperly disposing of ammunition?

The penalties for improperly disposing of ammunition vary depending on the jurisdiction. In some cases, you could be charged with a criminal offense. You could also be fined or have your firearms confiscated.

How can I learn more about disposing of ammunition?

You can learn more about disposing of ammunition by contacting your local law enforcement agency or a local shooting range. You can also find information on the internet.

Additional Resources

• [National Rifle Association: How to Dispose of Ammunition](https://www.nra.org/articles/2017/5/how-to-dispose-of-ammunition)
• [The Reloading Manual: A Guide to Ammunition Reloading](https://www.amazon.com/Reloading-Manual-Guide-Ammunition-Reloading/dp/0873895603)
• [The Ultimate Guide to Ammunition: Everything You Need to Know](https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Guide-Ammunition-Everything-Need/dp/1620871271)

  there are a number of safe and responsible ways to dispose of unwanted ammunition. By following these tips, you can help to keep your community safe and prevent potential accidents.

• Never dispose of ammunition in a trash can or down a storm drain. This can lead to serious injuries or even death if the ammunition is accidentally detonated.
• Instead, take your unwanted ammunition to a local gun range or police station. These facilities are equipped to safely dispose of ammunition.
• You can also mail your unwanted ammunition to a company that specializes in ammunition disposal.
• When mailing ammunition, be sure to follow the specific instructions provided by the company.
• By following these tips, you can help to keep your community safe and prevent potential accidents.