Okay, I stumbled upon this article about an Ammo Vending Machine today. At first I thought it was a spoof. Apparently not, though.  And I have to say, I kinda like the concept.

The machine is run from a private club, and it appears that it doesn’t violate the law (though there may be some speculation that you need to have an attendant present to verify that someone under 21 is not buying handgun ammo).  That said, there is some precedence with the BATFE and tobacco vending machines (in places like VFWs, etc) that get away with a stern sign.

Personally I wouldn’t mind seeing something like this at ranges, and I think you could even branch it into vending certain common repair components that could ruin a day at the range if you don’t have one on hand (I had an O-ring go out on my Rem 11-87 that pretty much shut me down once).  I get that logistically that may be hard to pre-determine but a small parts kit that it readily available could be a useful item.

What do you readers think?  Good idea?  Terrible idea?