Washington State permits civilians to own and use hollow‑point ammunition for self‑defense, hunting, and target shooting, provided the rounds are not classified as “restricted ammunition” under RCW 9.41.040. As of 2026, the law does not ban hollow‑point bullets outright, but it does impose strict limits on magazine capacity, firearm type, and the context of use. Violations can trigger felony charges, especially when the ammo is paired with illegal weapons or used in a crime. Therefore, the short answer is: yes, hollow‑point ammo is legal for most lawful purposes, but it must be possessed and employed within the bounds of state statutes and local ordinances.
Current Legal Status
Hollow‑point cartridges are considered “standard ammunition” under Washington law. The state’s definition excludes only armor‑piercing rounds defined in RCW 9.41.040(2). Consequently, residents may purchase, possess, transport, and fire hollow‑point bullets without a special permit, as long as they comply with the state’s overall weapons regulations, including background checks for firearm purchases and compliance with any municipal restrictions.
Key Statutes and Regulations
- RCW 9.41.040 – Defines prohibited ammunition; hollow‑points are not listed.
- RCW 9.41.030 – Governs the sale of ammunition; requires age verification (21+) and prohibits sales to convicted felons.
- RCW 9.41.080 – Sets magazine capacity limits (10 rounds for semi‑automatic rifles, 5 for handguns) that indirectly affect how many hollow‑point rounds can be loaded.
- Local Ordinances – Cities such as Seattle have adopted “no open carry” rules that affect how ammunition may be transported in public.
Exceptions and Permits
While no specific permit is needed for hollow‑point ammo, certain scenarios invoke additional scrutiny:
- Law Enforcement and Firearms Training – Agencies may require documentation proving the ammunition is for official use or certified training.
- Hunting Regulations – The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife permits hollow‑point bullets for hunting specific game, but not for species protected under federal law.
- Transportation – Ammunition must be stored in a locked container separate from the firearm when traveling across state lines, per federal ATF guidelines incorporated by reference in state law.
Enforcement and Penalties
Possessing hollow‑point ammo while violating any of the above statutes can lead to:
- Misdemeanor for first‑time possession by a prohibited person (up to 90 days jail).
- Felony for unlawful possession in conjunction with a restricted firearm or during the commission of a violent crime (up to 5 years imprisonment).
- Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000, plus forfeiture of the ammunition.
Can I buy hollow‑point ammo online and have it shipped to my Washington address?
Yes, provided the seller complies with RCW 9.41.030, verifies you are at least 21 years old, and conducts a background check if the purchase is linked to a firearm acquisition. The package must be delivered to a secure location; delivery to a mailbox is prohibited.
Are there any Washington counties that ban hollow‑point ammo outright?
No county in Washington has enacted a blanket ban on hollow‑point ammunition. However, some municipalities have “no open carry” ordinances that restrict carrying loaded firearms in public, which indirectly limits the practical use of such ammo in those jurisdictions.
Do concealed‑carry permit holders have any special privileges regarding hollow‑point rounds?
A concealed‑carry permit does not grant additional rights to possess or use hollow‑point ammo beyond what the general populace enjoys. Permit holders must still adhere to magazine capacity limits and transport requirements.
How does the 2024 amendment to RCW 9.41.040 affect future purchase limits?
The 2024 amendment clarifies that “restricted ammunition” does not include any expanding‑type bullet, reaffirming the legality of hollow‑points. It also introduces a provision allowing the legislature to adjust magazine capacity caps without redefining ammunition categories, meaning future changes could indirectly impact how many hollow‑point rounds can be loaded at one time.
What should I do if I am stopped by law enforcement with hollow‑point ammo?
Remain calm and inform the officer that the ammunition is lawfully possessed. Present any required permits, proof of purchase, and keep the ammo in a locked container as required by RCW 9.41.080. Non‑compliance can be escalated to felony charges, so cooperation is essential.