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When you’re spending time at the range, bulk ammo is your best friend. It keeps the round count high and the cost per shot low, which is exactly what you want during practice sessions. But not all target practice ammo is created equal. The right choice depends on your firearm, your training goals, and your budget. And if you’re not paying attention to those details, you could be wasting time, money, or worse, risking malfunctions that throw off your groove.
Let’s walk through how to choose bulk target ammo that makes every trip to the range count.
There’s a reason experienced shooters gravitate toward bulk target ammo. You need repetition, whether you’re fine-tuning your trigger discipline or drilling transitions. That means volume. And buying a few boxes at a time won’t cut it (at least not without draining your wallet). Bulk ammo allows you to put hundreds of rounds downrange without second-guessing every pull of the trigger.
But volume alone isn’t enough. You want rounds that feed reliably, shoot clean, and mirror your carry or competition loads closely enough that training has real value. That’s where smart selection comes into play.
Every shooter wants to save money, but going too cheap can cost you more in the long run. If a case of ammo seems too good to be true, it usually is. The worst offenders may jam your firearm, produce erratic groupings, or leave behind so much fouling that you spend more time cleaning than shooting.
That doesn’t mean you need match-grade cartridges for plinking. You’re looking for the sweet spot: affordable target practice ammo that performs predictably. Brands like Fiocchi, Magtech, and PMC consistently offer clean-burning powder, tight manufacturing standards, and solid reliability without the premium price tag.
When calculating cost, look at more than just the sticker price. Compare rounds per dollar, factor in how often you’ll shoot, and think about cleaning time. One box might be five bucks cheaper, but if it gums up your gun or throws your zero, it’s not doing you any favors.
Full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds are your go-to. In calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP, FMJs feed cleanly and provide consistent recoil and accuracy. They’re also significantly cheaper than hollow points, making them ideal for bulk target ammo.
Shooting indoors? Consider lead-free primers or ammo labeled as "clean fire." Indoor ventilation isn’t always ideal, so minimizing exposure to lead and heavy metals is a smart call.
When it comes to AR-15s or AK platforms, .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, and 7.62x39 are your common choices. Make sure you know your rifle’s chamber before loading up; shooting 5.56 in a .223-only barrel can cause pressure issues.
Steel-cased ammo is another topic rifle owners wrestle with. It’s cheaper, no doubt. And some guns, especially AKs, chew through it like candy. But steel casings are harder on extractors, and many indoor ranges don’t allow them. Brass is more forgiving, reloadable, and generally cleaner, worth considering for your go-to target practice ammo.
If you’re practicing with a 12-gauge or 20-gauge, stick with light target loads. Low-brass shells with smaller shot sizes (like 7½ or 8) are perfect for pattern work or clays. Just be sure your shotgun cycles them properly. Some semi-autos prefer heavier loads to run reliably.
Once you’ve got the right caliber and casing figured out, what separates great bulk target ammo from just okay?
These factors all come together to make your practice efficient and effective. You shouldn’t have to second-guess your ammo every time you squeeze the trigger.
Buying bulk target ammo doesn’t just mean ordering the biggest box. It means knowing your needs and matching them with the right product. Look for full cases—500 or 1,000 rounds—from trusted brands. Stick to calibers you shoot regularly, and don’t forget to factor in range rules when choosing casing material.
Keep an eye out for reputable surplus ammo or case-lot sales, but always check the condition and packaging. Sealed, dry-stored ammo lasts longer and delivers more consistent performance.
The best target practice ammo is the kind that fits your firearm, delivers repeatable performance, and doesn’t leave you elbow-deep in solvents after every range day. It’s not about finding the cheapest rounds; it’s about finding the right bulk target ammo for your setup and goals.
At Ammo2Burn, we carry a full lineup of reliable, affordable bulk ammo from brands we trust. Whether you’re loading up for a casual session or refining your defensive skill set, we’ve got the rounds to keep you shooting.
Need help finding the perfect bulk ammo for your firearm or training plan? Reach out to our expert team. We’ll get you squared away with the best options for your next trip to the range.
In many rifles—especially AKs—it’s fine. But some ARs and other platforms may experience increased wear on extractors. Check your firearm’s specs.
You can, but it’s not cost-effective. FMJ is the better choice for practice. It’s cheaper and feeds more consistently.
They look similar but differ in pressure and chamber dimensions. Use .223 in any .223 or 5.56 firearm—but only use 5.56 in guns marked for it.
Depends on your goals, but 100–300 rounds is a solid range session for most shooters.
Fiocchi, Magtech, PMC, and Winchester White Box are known for reliability and clean shooting, even in bulk.
Sometimes. Lower-cost ammo can be dirtier, especially steel-cased options. A basic clean after each session is a good habit.
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