ATF Frees Some Training Rounds from Ammunition Regulations
Published Date: 5/6/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The ATF wants to make it clear that some training rounds aren’t considered ammunition under the law, so they won’t be regulated like regular ammo. This change mainly affects importers and sellers of training rounds, but less-lethal ammo still counts as ammunition. You’ve got until August 4, 2026, to share your thoughts before the rule might change how these rounds are handled.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Training Rounds Not Treated As Ammunition
ATF proposes to clarify that certain fully assembled training rounds are not "ammunition" under the Gun Control Act because they are not designed for offensive or defensive combat nor for use in a device that constitutes a weapon. If finalized, importers would not need to treat those training rounds as ammunition for permanent import purposes under the AECA/GCA.
Retail Sales And Consumer Access Expanded
If finalized, the rule would allow importers and FFLs to import and sell qualifying training rounds for retail or commercial use rather than only under government exceptions. ATF says consumers may see lower prices and more product selection as a result.
Domestic Training-Ammo Makers Face Competition
ATF notes an estimated two domestic entities that may be affected: one small domestic manufacturer likely to face lower prices and demand from foreign competition, and one domestic subsidiary of a larger business that may benefit if it imports. ATF explicitly expects increased competition to the domestic training-round industry.
No Form 6 / 6A For Training Round Imports
Under the proposal, importers of qualifying training rounds would no longer need to submit ATF Form 5330.3A (Form 6, part I) or ATF Form 5330.3C (Form 6A) for permanent imports. ATF estimates a per-import paperwork time savings of $27.08 and total annual paperwork cost savings of $4,522 (based on 167 importers), and $45,215 over 10 years.
Less‑Than‑Lethal Ammo Still Regulated
ATF clarifies that less-than-lethal ammunition (for example, bean bag rounds or rubber pellets used for riot control) remains considered "ammunition" and generally continues to be regulated under the Gun Control Act and AECA. The proposed change applies to training rounds distinct from less-than-lethal ammunition.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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