When it comes to options, the firearm industry is about as diverse as any. From numerous calibers, bullet weights, manufacturers, firearms, and accessories, the industry can be overwhelming to dive into. A good introduction to understanding the industry is looking at the five most popular types of ammunition. 

Whether you’re new to guns or a seasoned veteran, this list can help you decide on your next firearm purchase or help narrow down your choices.

Most Common Ammo Types

  • 9mm Ammo

By far the most popular pistol round bought worldwide, the 9mm round is extremely versatile from the shooting range to self-defense. With variable grains available and different bullet designs, 9mm rounds provide enough stopping power at close range to protect yourself, and enough accuracy to be used in competitions. 

Favored for the light recoil and cheap price, 9mm is the most purchased type of ammunition. Manufacturers continue to push the technology and advancements possible in the design of self-defense 9mm rounds. When it comes to handguns, 9mm is going to be the most versatile high-performing choice of firearm. 

most common ammo

  • .22 LR  

From pistols to rifles, .22 LR is best known as the introductory round for new shooters. While capable of inflicting damage, these rounds are best for teaching individuals how to shoot or for small game hunting. With virtually no recoil and a very cheap price tag, .22 LR is a great choice for young or new shooters. Check out our huge selection of .22 LR ammunition here.

  • .308 Winchester

When first introduced in 1952 by the US military to replace the 30-06 Springfield, the .308 has proven itself on the battlefield and as an extremely versatile hunting cartridge. 

This short action round can be used for several big game species around the world. With numerous rifle choices and weights available, the .308 Winchester is an extremely popular round for hunting, target shooting, Palma, metal matches, military sniping, and law enforcement sharpshooting. With several variations to choose from, we carry the most popular choices of .308 rounds. 

  • 12-Gauge

We can’t forget about shotguns in the conversation of popular ammunition. While shotguns come in various gauges, the 12-gauge round is the best all-around cartridge. From home defense to hunting, 12-gauge provides the exceptional stopping power and economical prices. Hunters use 12-gauge rounds for bird hunting and land animals as well. 

For all your 12-gauge shotgun ammunition needs, visit our great selection here. 

types of ammunition

  • .223 Remington

This rifle round was developed in 1957 for the ArmaLite AR-15 rifle, which was adopted by the US Army as the M16. The AR-15 rifle has become extremely popular over the years due to its versatility, customization, and high performance. 

Aside from the military use, civilians use .223 Remington rounds for small game hunting, target practice, and recreational shooting. Check out our selection of .223 ammo types here. 

Honorable Mentions

  • 40 S&W

Designed from the start to be the primary choice for law enforcement sidearms, the 40 Smith & Wesson round is known for its potent stopping power and accuracy at close ranges. 

  • 30-06 Ammo

The predecessor to the .308 Winchester, the 30-06 helped win two World Wars, the Korean, and was last used in the Vietnam war. Powerful and accurate are the two big reasons why the 30-06 round is still extremely popular with civilian hunters today. 

While these are just a few of the most common ammo types sold each year, there are many more that offer unique differences based on what you are looking for. Do your research and figure out what type of shooting or hunting you’d like to get into, and then, dive into the performance of each specific type of ammo within each category. 

The best part about the gun industry is that there are advancements coming out all the time, and there is always something to learn and try!