Whether you have old scrap ammo from your gun-range adventures or a collection of bullets that didn’t make the cut at your granddad’s funeral, it might be hard to know how to dispose of them. Most local police stations will accept unused ammunition, although they’re unlikely to be able to handle large amounts of unwanted rounds. Fortunately, there are ways to recycle your unused ammunition without polluting the environment or breaking the law.

Understanding Scrap Ammo: What You Need to Know

The most common option for unused ammunition is to take it to your local scrap metal recycler. The recycler will sort the shells and casings by metal type (brass vs. steel) and size. They’ll also clean the materials and decontaminate them to ensure that any hazardous chemicals are safely removed. From here, the materials will be melted down and reused in new products.

Another way to get rid of your unused projectiles is to upcycle them into functional storage solutions or stylish decor elements in your workshop or garage. Using discarded ammunition boxes is an easy and cost-effective way to organize and display your favorite tools or firearms. Some community-driven initiatives even collect used ammo and repurpose it for safe home defense training or educational opportunities with local schools and non-profits.

If you’re planning to sell your unused ammunition, it’s important to understand the pricing and payment terms that will apply to your sale. You’ll also want to keep an eye on market demand, as prices tend to vary depending on current demand and supply. Establishing a relationship with a local scrap yard can also help you secure better rates for your materials.