Adding to the array of produce, aspirin, and breakfast cereal in local grocery stores is a unique vending machine that dispenses live rounds instead of Coca-Cola and candy.
According to Grant Magers, the CEO of American Rounds, selling ammunition in grocery stores is a natural fit.
“Walmart sells ammo, so it’s not much different. The only distinction is that they have a sporting goods section. Many of our grocery stores are located in rural areas where people may have to travel an hour to find a store that sells ammo,” Magers explained.
Additionally, Magers emphasizes that their method of selling ammo is the safest option available.
“Whenever I’ve purchased ammo, I’ve never been asked for ID. This is not the case with online purchases, where minors can easily misrepresent their age and use their parents’ payment methods,” Magers added.
The vending machine utilizes facial recognition technology to verify the buyer’s age against the scanned ID. If there is no match, the sale is declined.
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If the buyer is confirmed to be 21 years old, they can purchase rifle, handgun, or shotgun ammunition from the machine.
“We are advocating for a safer environment for the retail sale of ammunition and are committed to upholding the Second Amendment,” Magers stated.
However, some gun control advocates, like Kris Brown, President of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, believe that surpassing online sales in terms of security is a low standard.
“As a parent, it is concerning that individuals with a history of domestic violence, even if they have had their guns confiscated, could still potentially acquire ammunition without a background check or additional scrutiny,” Brown expressed.
States like California and Illinois mandate background checks for purchasing ammunition.
Currently, American Rounds has deployed six vending machines in Texas, Oklahoma, and Alabama, with transactions increasing by 800% since July 3. Grocery stores nationwide are expressing interest in acquiring their own machine.
“We are receiving around 20 emails per hour, with the vast majority showing complete support for our initiative,” Magers shared.
