So You Wanna Be Rambo at Walmart, But How Old Do You Gotta Be?
Let's face it, there's a certain allure to that shelf at Walmart stocked with shiny boxes of bullets. Maybe you're channeling your inner Katniss Everdeen or gearing up for a thrilling weekend of target practice (because, let's be honest, squirrels in your backyard aren't exactly rabid wolverines). But before you grab a box of .22 Long Rifles and head to checkout with a bullseye on your metaphorical chest, there's a crucial question to answer: How old do you gotta be to buy ammo at Walmart?
Spoiler Alert: You might need to ditch the slingshot and pick up your AARP card.
The Age of Ammunition Acquisition
In 2018, Walmart made a big change to their firearm policy, including ammunition. Buckle up for this one: you gotta be at least 21 years old to buy ammo at Walmart. That's right, no blasting bad guys (or pesky pigeons) with a BB gun until you're legal to drink (although, we recommend responsible firearm use over celebrating with too much tequila).
Why the Wait?
This age bump came after a series of events that made everyone re-think gun control. Walmart, being a retail giant with a heart (probably made of discount polyester), decided to take a stand for safety. So, basically, buying ammo at Walmart is like renting a car – you gotta be an adult.
Alternatives for the Under-21 Ammo Enthusiast
Fear not, young grasshopper! If you're under 21 and have a hankering for some harmless target practice, there are options:
- Hit up a Licensed Gun Dealer: These guys will card you just like Walmart, but they might have a wider selection of ammo.
- Befriend a 21-Year-Old with Impeccable Taste in Ammo: This option requires some serious charm and maybe a gift basket filled with their favorite candy.
- Take Up Archery: Not as bullet-y, but hey, Robin Hood wasn't exactly a senior citizen.
The Takeaway
While buying ammo at Walmart might be off-limits for younger folks, there are other ways to get your shooting fix. Remember, safety first, and maybe channel your inner Hawkeye instead of Rambo. After all, a well-placed arrow is way cooler than accidentally shooting out your neighbor's gnome collection (don't judge, we've all considered it).
