This week, we're taking a look back at some of the predictions we made about what might happen in the ammo market last year and comparing that against how things actually turned out.
To help us with the deep dive, Nathaniel Boos from Black Basin Outdoors is back on the show. His company keeps charts tracking the last five years of pricing data for dozens of ammunition calibers. They also deal directly with wholesalers and suppliers.
Last May, Boos predicted ammo prices would increase, cheaper foreign brands would disappear from US shelves, American brands would grab market share, and some specialty rounds would go away due to President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs. He said that's exactly what happened over the past year or so.
He said the Supreme Court's ruling against the tariffs has had little to no noticeable impact since the risk of new tariffs is leaving the business atmosphere in flux. Additionally, Boos said the war in Iran is beginning to pull supply away from the civilian market. He said demand has started to tick up over the last few months as well for a variety of reasons.
Boos said those factors have all culminated in dwindling supplies and rising prices. He said it's likely things will continue to get worse over the next several months. He said it's even possible the market could be headed toward pandemic-level disruptions.