Should I Use Factory or Reloaded Ammunition in My New Gun?

As a firearm enthusiast, one of the most important decisions you'll make when buying a new gun is choosing the right ammunition. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a newcomer, you’ll likely face the question: Should I use factory or reloaded ammunition in my new gun? Both options come with their own advantages and considerations, and understanding the key differences can help you make an informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of factory and reloaded ammunition to help you choose the best option for your firearm.

What is Factory Ammunition?

Factory ammunition, also known as commercial ammunition, is manufactured by established companies like Winchester, Federal, Remington, and Hornady. These companies produce ammunition in mass quantities, adhering to strict quality control measures to ensure consistency and reliability.

Factory ammunition is pre-packaged and ready to use, making it a convenient option for firearm owners. The components of factory ammo—such as the bullet, casing, powder, and primer—are carefully selected and assembled to ensure they meet industry standards for performance and safety.

What is Reloaded Ammunition?

Reloaded ammunition, on the other hand, refers to cartridges that have been previously fired and then "reloaded" by either the shooter or a third-party reloader. Reloading involves disassembling the fired cartridge, cleaning and inspecting the brass casing, and adding new components such as the primer, powder, and bullet.

Many shooters reload their own ammunition as a hobby or for cost-saving purposes, but reloaded ammo can also be purchased from specialty retailers or small businesses that provide custom ammunition tailored to specific needs or preferences.

Pros and Cons of Factory Ammunition

Pros of Factory Ammunition

1. Consistency: Factory ammo is produced under strict quality control standards, ensuring that each round is identical in terms of performance. This consistency can be crucial for both recreational shooting and more specialized applications such as hunting or self-defense.

2. Reliability: Since factory ammo is mass-produced and tested for quality, it is typically very reliable. Factory manufacturers test their ammo for proper function, so you're less likely to encounter issues like misfires or inconsistent performance.

3. Convenience: Factory ammo is ready to use straight from the box, saving you time and effort compared to reloading. For people who don’t have the time, equipment, or expertise to reload, factory ammo is the easiest and most hassle-free option.

4. Safety: Factory ammunition is engineered to be safe when used in the firearms it was designed for. Ammunition manufacturers adhere to strict industry safety standards, reducing the risk of issues like over-pressurization or improper loading. Using factory ammunition is also preferable for new gun owners and manufacturers, as it helps ensure the firearm’s warranty remains valid. Many manufacturers will specify if certain brands or types of factory ammo should not be used with their firearms. If factory ammo does cause damage, firearm manufacturers typically provide support and guidance—just be sure to retain the ammunition details and follow their repair or replacement instructions.

Cons of Factory Ammunition

1. Higher Cost: Factory ammo is generally more expensive than reloaded ammunition. The cost of mass production, packaging, and distribution means you’re paying a premium for the convenience and consistency it offers.

2. Limited Customization: While factory ammo is reliable, it may not always meet your specific needs in terms of bullet weight, powder charge, or other performance characteristics. Customization options are limited compared to reloaded ammo.

3. Packaging Waste: Factory ammo often comes in bulk packaging, which can contribute to more waste. If you’re environmentally conscious, reloaded ammo can be a more sustainable choice since you’re reusing spent casings.

Pros and Cons of Reloaded Ammunition

Pros of Reloaded Ammunition - 

1. Cost-Effective: Reloaded ammunition is typically much cheaper than factory ammo. By reusing spent casings and purchasing components in bulk, reloaders can significantly reduce the overall cost per round.

2. Customization: One of the biggest advantages of reloaded ammunition is the ability to customize it. Reloaders can adjust bullet weights, powder charges, and primer types to suit their specific shooting needs, whether it's for target practice, hunting, or competitive shooting.

3. Sustainability: Since reloaded ammo uses spent casings, it is a more environmentally friendly option. If you’re looking to reduce your environmental footprint, reloading is a great way to recycle components rather than discarding them.

4. Performance Optimization: For seasoned reloaders, reloading offers the opportunity to fine-tune ammunition for superior accuracy and performance. This can be particularly beneficial for precision shooters who demand the utmost accuracy from their firearms.

Cons of Reloaded Ammunition

1. Quality Control: Reloading ammo requires a certain level of skill and attention to detail. While experienced reloaders can produce ammunition that’s comparable to factory quality, novice reloaders may face issues like inconsistent powder loads, improper seating of bullets, or improperly cleaned casings. These issues can lead to reduced performance or, in some cases, unsafe conditions.

2. Safety Concerns: Reloading ammunition can pose safety risks if done improperly. Overloading powder charges or using damaged casings can result in catastrophic failures such as misfires, hangfires, or even firearm damage. It’s important to follow proper reloading procedures and invest in quality equipment to mitigate these risks. Additionally, using reloaded ammunition in a new firearm will, in most cases, void the manufacturer’s warranty. Any damage caused by reloaded ammunition typically won’t be covered, so it's critical to check your firearm manual and warranty terms before using anything other than approved factory ammo.

3. Time and Effort: Reloading ammunition is a time-consuming process. It requires patience and attention to detail, as well as investment in equipment like a press, dies, scales, and primers. For those who don’t have the time or desire to reload, factory ammunition is a much simpler solution.

4. Limited Availability: Reloaded ammunition is not always as readily available as factory ammo. You may need to purchase reloaded rounds from a specialist retailer, and availability may vary depending on the caliber or type of ammunition you need.

Which Should You Choose for Your New Gun?

When deciding whether to use factory or reloaded ammunition in your new gun, there are several factors to consider:

• Experience Level: If you're new to shooting or have just purchased your first firearm, factory ammunition is likely your best bet. It’s the safest and most convenient option and will allow you to enjoy shooting without worrying about reloading or potential quality issues.

• Budget: If you shoot regularly and want to save money, reloaded ammunition can be a great way to lower your overall costs. Just ensure you're using quality reloads and, if you’re reloading your own, pay attention to details.

• Purpose: Consider your shooting goals. If you’re using your new gun for precision shooting or hunting, factory ammunition may be the best choice due to its consistency and reliability. However, if you're into casual target practice or looking to customize your shooting experience, reloaded ammo might be a good fit.

• Gun Type: Some firearms, especially more expensive or high-performance guns, may perform better with factory ammunition that’s specifically designed for their specs. On the other hand, many modern firearms can handle reloaded ammunition just fine, as long as it's properly maintained and the rounds are reloaded with care.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between factory and reloaded ammunition depends on your shooting style, experience level, and budget. For most first-time gun owners or those new to the world of firearms, factory ammunition is a reliable and safe choice. However, if you're a seasoned shooter looking to save money, customize your rounds, or reduce waste, reloaded ammunition can be a great option.

At Bunker Firearms & Ammo, we offer a wide selection of factory ammunition in single box or case quantities to help preserve your firearm warranty. If you have any questions about which type of ammo is right for you or need assistance with any of our firearms products, don't hesitate to reach out. Our knowledgeable team is always here to help you make the best decision for your shooting experience!