Knives 
Sometimes as a gun owner, finding the right ammunition can feel like a never-ending search. This is especially true for vintage and military firearm collectors, who rely on rare calibers and surplus ammo. Larger stores often don’t carry these hard-to-find rounds, and when they do, they’re frequently out of stock—just like the infamous .22LR shortage we saw a few years ago. Simply put, the ammo supply is just not available. It’s not like you can find Czech-made Sellier & Bellot at your typical ammunition supplier in Orange County. Even finding American rounds such as Colt .40 can be tricky for OC locals nowadays. That is, until now!
As Orange County locals and 2A supporters, we at Ammo Guy know all too well how hard it can be to find the proper ammunition and reloading supplies for vintage firearms. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to bring a massive selection of rare, vintage, and military surplus ammo to Orange County. Whether you’re searching for hard-to-find calibers, bulk ammo deals, or premium reloading components, our Santa Ana store has it all. And with the best prices in Orange County, you won’t have to break the bank to stock up!
Why Picking the Right Ammo Matters
Choosing the correct ammunition is crucial for both performance and safety. Here's why it's important:
Protect Your Vintage Firearms
Firearms are designed for specific types of ammunition, and using the wrong kind can lead to malfunctions, safety hazards, or damage to the firearm. This is especially important for vintage firearms, as modern high-powered ammunition can be too strong for older, delicate models. If you are not sure what kind of ammunition you should use, we're always happy to offer our professional recommendations and track down exactly what you need at our Orange County ammo store.
Purpose and Use Case
The type of ammunition you choose should align with your intended purpose. Whether you need a round that travels long distances with precision or one that delivers maximum impact and stopping power, selecting the right caliber and bullet type can make all the difference. Certain brands and bullet compositions may perform better depending on hunting, target shooting, or self-defense needs.
Ammunition For Different Types of Guns
Understanding the basic types of ammunition is important. Here's a quick reference guide:
Handgun Ammo:
Common calibers include 9mm (ideal for target shooting and self-defense), .45 ACP (preferred for stopping power), and .40 S&W (balancing recoil and power).
Rifle Ammo:
Popular calibers include 5.56 (commonly used in tactical scenarios and sporting), .308 (excellent for hunting and long-range shooting), and .30-06 (versatile for hunting various game).
Shotgun Shells:
Includes birdshot (for clay targets and bird hunting), buckshot (ideal for larger game and defensive purposes), steel shot (required for waterfowl hunting in many areas), and slugs (effective for big game hunting and defense).
Hunting Ammo:
In California, non-lead ammunition is required when hunting. The specific type also depends heavily on the game you're targeting, so choose wisely.
Self Defense Ammo:
Jacketed hollow points are recommended for self-defense due to their reliable expansion and reduced risk of over-penetration, maximizing safety and effectiveness.
Remanufactured Ammo:
Factory-reloaded ammunition offers gun enthusiasts quality rounds at great prices, ideal for training. While reman ammo is an affordable option for training, it's important to note that many shooting ranges in Orange County do not allow this type of ammunition.
Vintage Ammo:
Rare ammo specifically for vintage guns, sought after by collectors aiming to match the authenticity and historical value of their firearms.
Summary:
- Handgun Ammo: 9mm, .45 ACP, .40 S&W
- Rifle Ammo: 5.56, .308, .30-06
- Shotgun Shells: Birdshot, Buckshot, Steel Shot, Slugs
- Hunting Ammo: Non-lead ammunition is required in California
- Self Defense Ammo: Jacketed hollow points
- Remanufactured Ammo: Affordable, but often prohibited to use at shooting ranges
Stocking Up In Orange County
When it comes to staying stocked in OC, Ammo Guy is your guy. As a trusted ammunition supplier in Orange County, we regularly help customers stock up for target practice. Most local ranges close around 9 PM, and our ammo store in Santa Ana is open from 11 AM to 6 PM—making us the ideal stop before your next range visit. Conveniently located in Santa Ana near the 55 freeway, Ammo Guy simplifies your ammo runs, whether you're gearing up for weekend shooting or need a quick refill during a busy week. But staying stocked isn't just about convenience—it's also about finding the best prices in OC.
Orange County Shooting Range Ammunition Rules
Before heading to a shooting range, it's essential to check their ammunition rules. These rules are typically posted on the shooting range's website. Several Orange County shooting ranges restrict reloaded ammo and black powder rounds. Some ranges only allow factory-new ammunition, while others prohibit specific brands or products. For example, FT3 Shooting Range in Orange County prohibits Wolf, Bear, and Tula ammunition products. Many ranges check ammunition at entrance. So, bringing the wrong ammo could result in being turned away or having to purchase ammunition at the range.
Ammunition That's Not Allowed At Orange County Shooting Ranges
Below is a list of ammunition restrictions at local Orange County shooting ranges within 15 minutes driving distance to Ammo Guy.
Evan's Gun World:
The following ammunition is not allowed at Evan's Gun World shooting range in Orange, CA:
- Steel core ammo
- Green tip ammo
- Bimetal (magnetic bullets)
- Tracer ammunition
- Bird shot
- Black powder ammunition
Firing Line:
The Firing Line indoor shooting range in Huntington Beach, CA require that all ammunition be full metal jacket or lead. They strictly prohibit these types of ammunition:
- Steel jacket or steel core ammunition
- Semi-jacketed ammunition
- Wolf, WPA or Tula ammunition
- Black powder ammunition
FT3:
At FT3 Tactical Range, in Orange County restricts the following ammunition:
- Aluminum Case, Steel Case, Steel Core and Steel Shot of ANY caliber
- Bi-Metal or Frangible ammo
- Wolf, Bear or Tula ammunition
- Black powder ammunition
Stop By Ammo Guy Before Heading to the Range
Buying ammo at the range is a lot like buying snacks at a movie theater—you'll pay a hefty markup for convenience. Why spend more than you have to? Stop by Ammo Guy before heading to the range and stock up on quality ammunition at the best prices in Orange County. With our shop closing at 6PM and most local ranges open until 9PM, you’ve got plenty of time to grab your ammo and hit the range without overpaying.
