I am from Canada. I don't know if the cost of ammunition in the U.S. has sky rocketed like here. I have not checked into centerfire ammo yet, only because I don't need it now, but I recently purchased 2 boxes of Winchester .17 HMR for a whopping $17.99 a box! That is a $5 increase from about 4-5 months ago when I bought them for $12.99. Just wondering if anyone can explain why this is? Thanks to all those who respond.