I received my copy of the Journal a few days back and read the article about the primer shortage. As this article was likely written some time before it went to print I thought I'd see how the current primer situation is around the country.

I was in Sioux Falls, SD a few weeks back and stopped at the Scheels store in town. Reloading components were plentiful except off course for primers. I got to talking to the manager of the gun department about the problem. He went on to say that he had been speaking to the various manufacturers about the shortage. The news he was getting was that the military had placed huge orders for ammunition which was taking up most of the mfg.'s production. Further he said that the orders were nearing completion and we would again see primers back on the retailer's shelves in late summer or early fall.

Comment, opinions?

Regards,

Bruce

I also shoot National Match Course.  At the Missouri State Championship, I spoke to one of our younger shooters. He graduated college a couple of years ago.  He now is employed by Remington Ammunition in Arkansas. He said the demand for factory ammo, is so great that most remington primers are being used in house. They run 3 shifts, 7days a week and are adding more people. They will not increase primer production due to the small profit margin.
Kurt

You can buy primers they just cost twice what they did before.  I like to use Remington 2 1/2's in my Schuetzens and none local. Cabelas will back order them and charge  your credit card when shipped. Shipping HazMat fees and all primers are about 4 1/2 cents each. Got delivery on the last lot in 3 weeks. Have an order in now Small Pistol for my target revolver, they quote 2-3 weeks delivery. Those prices are based on 2000 which is doubled what I normaly buy. Hazmat and shipping are half the cost  so might as well get two boxes per order.

My Local shop has them behind the counter and will sometimes sell but depends on how the clerk feels that day.  Next modern gun I buy am going off the Internet not spending my cash with the local guy.  This shop I have dealt with for over 30 years two generations of same owners.  Fellow that owns it now is never there using hired management.  Making profit today but doubt he will survive the inevitable catch up in market supply vs demand. He is gouging people on plastic pistols and black rifles too.   

Boats

or do as sierra says only get just what you need so they can catch up.
even though I am short on primers i will sit it out and wait for things to get back to normal if they ever do.
irish