With demand outpacing supply, Walmart issues ammunition ration

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A jump in demand for ammunition is leaving many retailers with empty shelves -- so much so that Walmart, the world's largest retailer, is now rationing its supply. While the nationwide shortage began just a few months ago, in Wisconsin, demand has outpaced supply for much longer.

Demand for weapons and ammunition jumped when President Obama was re-elected and only picked up after the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut. It has outpaced supply so much that Walmart recently announced a ration. 

A Walmart spokeswoman issued this statement to FOX6 News: "In order to take care of as many customers as possible, starting Thursday, Jan. 24th, all ammunition sales were limited to three boxes per customer, per day as supply is limited at this time."

While not everyone is following suit, it doesn't mean better business for competitors. Joe Herter is a district manager for Gander Mountain. His stores are facing the same supply issues as Walmart -- a problem he says the industry as a whole is dealing with.

"Different retailers obviously pursue different strategies and for us we want to be able to take care of the customer to the best of our ability. Quantities are limited in general, so we can't necessarily take care of everybody when they come in, but once they get here if we have it in stock, they're able to buy whatever they need to purchase," Herter said.

According to Herter, ever since concealed carry was passed in Wisconsin, demand has shot through supply.

"A lot of customers have taken advantage of the change in laws," Herter said.

As for Walmart's rationing, a spokeswoman says: "We are monitoring supply issues daily. Once the supply issue has been resolved, we will address the purchase limit."

With ongoing discussions in Washington, D.C. regarding gun control, there is no sign of demand dwindling. It may be some time before Walmart lifts its own sales restriction.