I needed to make an order for bullets and I've been ordering most of my reloading supplies from Midway USA. The problem with Midway is that the shipping costs have climbed over the past couple of years and the component prices aren't what you can find anywhere. So, this morning I decided to look elsewhere and clicked on Powder Valley. This is a little firm in Kansas that has supplied powder and primers to me in the past when I couldn't find what I was looking for anywhere else. Surprise, surprise, Powder Valley beat the Midway USA prices on bullets and says that they'll figure the shipping based on the weight of the package.
About an hour ago, I got a shipping label notice from UPS. So far, great service. We'll see how their shipping costs align with Midway, but I'm betting that they'll meet or beat them.
Powder Valley has the PawPaw seal of approval.
**UPDATE** I just checked my bank, and shipping was $9.95 for an 8 lb box through UPS. The last order from Midway was about the same size and shipping, handling, etc was $13.55. I saved money on both the basic merchandise and the shipping. As far as I'm concerned, this is a win-win.
I've also used MidSouth, but they were out of stock on my order this morning. I've used Graf's in the past and like them as well. Still, this morning, Powder Valley came in with the lowest price when I looked at individual stock numbers for like items. Just for the record, I ordered Hornady bullets, all .30 caliber. 150 grain SST's, #30302, 150 grain RN .30-30, #3035, and 130 grain spire points, #3020. If you're a .30 caliber shooter and haven't tried that #30302, you're missing out on one fine bullet. It's billed as a hunting bullet, but it is very accurate in a number of my .30 caliber rifles.
I used to love Midway back in the days of free shipping. I think they lost me around the time they decided to take on Brownells for more of the gunsmithing stuff. I usually do one or two big orders a year. My last order a few months ago was with midsouth and I was very happy. I also like Grafs.
ReplyDeleteYours isn't the first recomendation for Powder Valley that I have heard. I'm waiting to see how things go for you. I'm trying to get some guys together now for a big powder and primer order. I use alot of Red Dot and I want to try a keg of Promo to see if I can save some money.
Keep us posted on this one please.
woods
yup. happy Powder Valley customer for several years now. Several bulk buys with buddies. All smooth. They'll pick up the phone and coach on you where the break points are for a large buy to maximize material shipped. Esp helpful with the "mostest" for a Hazmat shipping charge.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I always look closely at shipping charges, since they a sneaky way for the company to stiff in a little more profit, while appearing to meet competitor's prices.
ReplyDelete