Biden bans russian ammo

[FunGramps]

Originally Posted by JohnKSa

Clinton banned most Chinese ammo imports (as well as most Chinese small arms imports) over Tianenmen Square. Those bans are still in effect.

Obama banned some Russian ammo imports (and some Russian small arms imports) over the Russian actions in the Ukraine. Those bans are still in effect.

Biden has now banned any remaining Russian ammo/small arms imports that were still allowed under the Obama action.

These actions do have an effect on supply and therefore on prices. It's hard to know what the long term effect will be since imports from other countries could replace the lost supply and U.S. ammunition manufacturers will likely increase production capabilities if they perceive a permanent change in demand.

It's interesting to note, however, that the U.S. no longer has the capability to turn lead ore into lead metal. EPA restrictions made it infeasible to maintain smelting operations in the U.S. and the last smelter operating in the U.S. closed down in 2013.

Assuming that the same amount of ammo is purchased and used in the U.S., then any of that new supply that isn't from imports will be met by U.S. ammo makers. That would mean an increase in lead use/demand in the U.S. and since we don't have our own lead production, that means imports of lead would increase.

I guess what I'm saying is that however the lost supply is replaced, it's going to require imports--either to replace the manufactured ammo, or to bring in more lead for use in U.S. ammo production.

When you say that Biden banned Russian ammo and weapons, do you mean the importation has been stopped? Russian ammo and weapons are still readily available, although very expensive.

[Aguila Blanca]

As I think was mentioned previously, the ban applies to new contracts. Since there are still many existing contracts that haven't yet expired or been fulfilled, we won't begin to experience any shortages that may (or may not) arise due to this until most of those contracts run out.

[FunGramps]

Originally Posted by Aguila Blanca

As I think was mentioned previously, the ban applies to new contracts. Since there are still many existing contracts that haven't yet expired or been fulfilled, we won't begin to experience any shortages that may (or may not) arise due to this until most of those contracts run out.

Got it.
Thanks.