If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that supply chains can snap, prices can skyrocket, and shelves can empty in the blink of an eye. For firearm owners, being caught unprepared isn’t just inconvenient – it’s potentially dangerous. Whether you’re preparing for emergencies, economic uncertainty, or simply want to stay ahead of future shortages, stockpiling the right ammunition now can save you money and stress down the road. This guide isn’t just a list of rounds that look good on paper – it’s a breakdown of practical, versatile calibers that every serious prepper should consider locking in for 2025.
Here are 10 essential calibers to prioritize in your stockpile – each chosen for its reliability, versatility, and long-term value.
1. 9mm – The Everyday Workhorse
When it comes to utility, availability, and sheer practicality, 9mm reigns supreme. It’s the most widely used handgun cartridge in the world – relied upon by civilians, law enforcement, and militaries alike. That means you’ll always find demand, and more importantly, you’ll find supply… until you don’t.
The beauty of 9mm lies in its balance. It’s powerful enough for self-defense, affordable enough for training, and common enough that you can stockpile large quantities without breaking the bank. Hollow points, FMJs, subsonics – you name it, it’s out there and easy to store in bulk. It’s the backbone of most stockpiles for good reason.
2. .22 LR – The Lightweight Survivalist
The humble .22 Long Rifle might not scream power, but don’t underestimate it. This small cartridge punches far above its weight in versatility. It’s perfect for training new shooters, plinking, and small game hunting. It’s also dead simple to store – you can tuck thousands of rounds into a single ammo can.
In a crisis, .22 LR doubles as a form of currency. It’s one of the most common calibers in circulation, making it ideal for barter. And because it’s quiet and has almost no recoil, it’s one of the best options for discreet pest control and survival hunting. If you don’t already have bricks of .22 LR set aside, fix that soon.
3. 12 Gauge – The Jack of All Trades
No stockpile is truly complete without 12 gauge shotgun shells. It’s arguably the most versatile firearm platform ever made. Whether you’re loading birdshot for game, buckshot for defense, or slugs for bigger threats, 12 gauge can handle just about any scenario.
Home defense is where this caliber shines. Buckshot provides massive stopping power with a spread that’s forgiving under stress. But the utility doesn’t end there. With a few different loads on hand, a shotgun becomes a Swiss army knife of the ammo world. Shells are bulkier than rifle or pistol rounds, but they’re worth every inch of shelf space.
4. .223 Remington / 5.56 NATO – The AR Staple
This caliber duo is essential if you own an AR-15 or similar semi-auto rifle. .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO are the bread and butter of America’s favorite rifle platform. Whether for sport shooting, home defense, or SHTF readiness, you’ll want a healthy stash of this round.
What makes it even more valuable is its commonality among military and law enforcement forces. That means production is widespread, and even in lean times, it’s often among the first calibers to return to shelves. With good accuracy, manageable recoil, and wide application – from varmints to defense – this one is a no-brainer.
5. 7.62x39mm – The AK’s Companion
If you own an AK-pattern rifle or similar firearm, 7.62x39mm is a must-have. Known for its durability and reliable performance even in harsh conditions, this Soviet-era cartridge has earned its reputation.
Not only is it tough, but it’s also relatively inexpensive compared to other rifle rounds. It’s ideal for medium game hunting, defensive situations, or just recreational shooting. If ammo ever becomes currency, you can bet this one will be in high demand thanks to the AK’s popularity across the globe. Even if you don’t own one now, it’s worth keeping some on hand.
6. .308 Winchester / 7.62 NATO – The Long-Range Hammer
For those who prefer precision or need to hunt large game, the .308 Winchester and its military counterpart, 7.62 NATO, are indispensable. They’ve been trusted by hunters and snipers for decades due to their balance of power, accuracy, and reliability.
While .308 is great for clean hunting kills, 7.62 NATO offers similar performance at a typically lower price when purchased in bulk. Both are solid choices for extended-range defense scenarios or backwoods self-reliance. Just make sure your rifle is chambered for both, or understand the subtle differences in pressure and tolerances before interchanging them.
7. .45 ACP – The Heavy Hitter
Originally designed by John Browning, the .45 ACP is a timeless powerhouse. Though it’s not as trendy as 9mm these days, its stopping power is undeniable. If you carry or rely on a full-sized handgun like the 1911 or Glock 21, stockpiling .45 ACP is an easy decision.
Recoil is surprisingly manageable for such a heavy round, especially from full-frame pistols. It’s also a popular choice for personal defense due to its energy transfer and slower velocity. Hollow points in .45 are particularly devastating, and while it’s more expensive than 9mm, the performance speaks for itself.
8. .357 Magnum / .38 Special – The Revolver Twins
If you own a revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, you’re getting two calibers for the price of one. These workhorses are reliable, time-tested, and versatile. The .357 Magnum is ideal for self-defense and even some hunting applications, while .38 Special offers a softer shooting experience perfect for range practice.
Because revolvers don’t rely on slide action, they’re less picky about ammo types – making these calibers especially valuable in less-than-ideal conditions. Plus, revolvers tend to have fewer failure points than semi-autos, adding peace of mind when reliability is key.
9. .40 S&W – The Middle Ground
Though its popularity has declined with the rise of 9mm, .40 S&W still deserves a spot in your reserve. It offers more stopping power than 9mm with higher capacity than .45 ACP, making it a solid compromise between the two.
Law enforcement once relied heavily on this caliber, meaning there’s still plenty of surplus ammo floating around. If you already own a pistol chambered in .40, now’s a great time to grab bulk deals. It’s a highly effective defensive round with manageable recoil and should never be overlooked in a diversified ammo stockpile.
10. 7.5x55mm Swiss – The Precision Classic
This round might be lesser-known, but for those who own a Swiss K31 or similar rifle, the 7.5x55mm Swiss is a gem. Its accuracy and consistency are legendary. In fact, many shooters consider it among the most precise military surplus cartridges ever produced.
Availability isn’t as wide as the other calibers listed here, which is exactly why you should stockpile it when you see it. It’s great for long-range shooting and big game hunting. If you’re a collector or serious marksman, keeping a healthy stash of 7.5×55 ensures your rifle is always ready when you are.
Preparation Over Panic
We live in a world where uncertainty is the only constant. Whether you’re focused on defense, hunting, training, or simply preparing for the worst, building a smart ammo stockpile isn’t paranoia – it’s planning. The key is balance: start with the common calibers that match your firearms, and gradually expand your collection based on utility and versatility.
When another shortage hits – and it will – the people who planned ahead won’t be paying triple for a box of range ammo. They’ll already have it, safely stored and ready to go.
So don’t wait for shelves to go empty. Start stacking now.
Gary’s love for adventure and preparedness stems from his background as a former Army medic. Having served in remote locations around the world, he knows the importance of being ready for any situation, whether in the wilderness or urban environments. Gary’s practical medical expertise blends with his passion for outdoor survival, making him an expert in both emergency medical care and rugged, off-the-grid living. He writes to equip readers with the skills needed to stay safe and resilient in any scenario.