In the US, where gun violence incidents are highest globally, ammunition will now be as readily available as milk and eggs in several cities, thanks to the convenience of vending machines placed in grocery stores. These machines will allow people to buy bullets at any time, effortlessly.
From Alabama to Oklahoma and Texas, bullet vending machines can be seen next to milk dispensers in grocery stores. Initially, these machines have been installed in stores in these three cities and are as easy to use as ATMs.
American Rounds is the company behind these vending machines. They assure that the inclusion of ID scanners and facial recognition software makes this purchasing method even more secure than online transactions since proof of age is verified in person at the store.
Source: aajtak
Easily Retrieve Bullets from Vending Machines
The age verification technology employed implies enhanced security in purchasing ammunition than even online shopping by requiring customers to provide proof of age in retail stores.
American Rounds affirms that customers over the age of 21 can easily purchase cartridges from these automated bullet dispensers, which are available 24/7. Long waits and lines at stores are a thing of the past; you can now buy bullets at any time. These machines are equipped with built-in AI technology, card scanning capabilities, and face recognition software.
Grant Magers, CEO of American Rounds, reports that currently, eight machines have been installed or are in the installation process in four states. The company has received over 200 store requests from around nine states for their Automated Ammo Retail Machines (AARM), and this number is increasing daily.
But why the controversy...
Despite the innovative solution, these vending machines in several US grocery stores face opposition. The increase in mass shootings in the US is worrying; there have been 15 such incidents already in 2024.
Concerned voices argue that the increased availability of bullets in grocery stores could potentially lead to more shootings.
