There is a finite amount of ammo available to the distributors, and then, to the wholesalers, and, finally to the retailers.
That available quantity is smaller than the present demand, and by a significant amount.
Which increases prices.
This is not inflation, nor gouging, it's simple economics.
We have many more new shooters than before, and they all want a box or two of ammo. Those of us entering into hunting season (and out of lockdowns) want several boxes in several calibers. All of which have happened nearly at once.
The LGS (nor the chain stores) are not raking in bux on these prices. When their shelves are empty, they lose customers, who have many options, and typically never return. The wholesalers and Distributors are in a similar bind. They only make money if they have goods to sell.
The price they set has to be the balance between having empty shelves and having any inventory at all. But, that also means those retail merchants are burning the midnight oil trying to find stock to sell. Which increased in price at the wholesaler and Distributor level.
We continue to beat this dead horse, and for nearly two months' now. This thread will be locked and soon.
