The Hidden Dangers of Buying Reloaded Ammunition: What Every Shooter Needs to Know
The Hidden Dangers of Buying Reloaded Ammunition
When it comes to ammunition, safety should always be the top priority. While factory-manufactured ammunition undergoes rigorous quality control, reloaded ammunition—especially from unknown sources—does not. Some shooters reload their own ammo, which is fine if done properly. But buying reloads from gun shows, online sellers, or individuals you don’t know is a gamble with your safety.
Why Reloaded Ammo is Risky
Reloading ammunition is a precise science. If done incorrectly, it can lead to serious firearm malfunctions, injuries, and even destruction of your firearm. Here are some common dangers of using someone else’s reloads:
- Inconsistent Powder Loads – Too much powder can cause overpressure, leading to a dangerous explosion in your firearm. Too little powder can result in a squib load (which we’ll explain in a moment).
- Improper Case Resizing – If the brass casing isn't resized correctly, it may not chamber properly, causing feeding issues or failures to fire.
- Low-Quality Components – Some reloaders cut corners by using inferior primers, cases, or bullets, increasing the risk of misfires or weak performance.
- Lack of Quality Control – Unlike factory ammunition, which is made using precise equipment and rigorous testing, homemade reloads may lack consistency, leading to dangerous variations in pressure and velocity.
Types of Malfunctions Caused by Bad Reloads
Using unreliable reloaded ammo can result in several dangerous firearm malfunctions, including:
1. Squib Loads
A squib load occurs when a round is underpowered, often due to a missing or insufficient powder charge. This causes the bullet to get lodged in the barrel instead of exiting. If you fire another round without clearing the obstruction, it can cause a catastrophic barrel explosion. Warning signs of a squib load include:
- A much quieter shot than usual
- Little to no recoil
- Failure of the bullet to exit the barrel
2. Hangfires
A hangfire is a delayed discharge caused by a faulty primer or improper powder charge. You pull the trigger, but the round doesn’t fire immediately. If you assume the gun is safe and start clearing it too soon, the round could fire unexpectedly.
3. Overpressure Loads (Kabooms)
A “kaboom” (KAB) happens when a round is loaded with too much powder, generating excessive pressure. This can cause the firearm’s chamber or barrel to explode, potentially causing severe injury or even death. Signs of overpressure loads include:
- Bulged or cracked brass casings
- Difficulty extracting spent cases
- Extreme recoil or excessive muzzle flash
4. Failure to Feed (FTF) and Failure to Eject (FTE)
Bad reloads can cause failure to feed or failure to eject malfunctions, jamming your firearm and preventing it from cycling properly. These issues can stem from improper case sizing, weak powder charges, or inconsistent crimping on the bullet.
Reloading Yourself? Great. Buying from Others? Don’t Risk It.
If you reload your own ammunition and follow proper safety protocols, that’s one thing. But trusting someone else’s reloads—especially from an unknown source at a gun show or online marketplace—is a serious risk. You don’t know their process, their level of experience, or the quality of their materials.
Factory ammunition is produced with strict quality control measures, ensuring reliability and safety. It may cost a little more, but that price is worth it when compared to the potential cost of a destroyed firearm—or worse, a life-threatening injury.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Shoot Smart
At The Gun Shoppe of Sarasota, we prioritize your safety and firearm performance. That’s why we always recommend using high-quality factory ammunition. If you reload your own rounds, ensure you’re following proper procedures and using quality components. But when it comes to buying reloads from others, remember: your life is worth more than saving a few bucks on cheap ammo.
Stop by The Gun Shoppe of Sarasota for expert advice, top-quality firearms, and factory ammunition you can trust. Stay safe and keep shooting smart!
