Product classification
HS code for Pistol cartridges: 9306.30
Ammunition, cartridges and parts thereof n.e.c. in heading no. 9306.
Classification of pistol cartridges under HS 9306.30
Pistol cartridges are classified under HS code 9306.30, which falls within Chapter 93 of the Harmonized System. This chapter is dedicated to arms and ammunition, as well as their parts and accessories. Heading 9306 specifically encompasses bombs, grenades, torpedoes, mines, missiles, and similar munitions of war and parts thereof, along with cartridges and other ammunition and projectiles and parts thereof. Subheading 9306.30 is a residual category for "Other cartridges and parts thereof," which includes ammunition for revolvers and pistols. The classification is based on the function of the item as a complete round of ammunition or a primary component of one. This includes the casing, the primer, the propellant powder, and the projectile (bullet). The classification remains consistent regardless of the caliber, provided the cartridge is intended for use in firearms. It is important to note that the materials used (e.g., brass, lead, or steel) do not change the primary classification under 9306, as the functional use as ammunition is the overriding factor according to the Section and Chapter notes. Furthermore, this code covers both centerfire and rimfire cartridges. Parts of cartridges, such as empty cartridge cases (brass) or individual bullets, are also classified here under the provision for "parts thereof." However, the explosive components like the propellant powder or the percussion caps are classified in Chapter 36 if presented separately. The complexity of ammunition classification often arises from the distinction between civilian ammunition and munitions of war, though 9306.30 generally captures the bulk of commercial pistol ammunition used for sporting or self-defense purposes.
- Covers
- 9mm Luger cartridges
- .45 ACP ammunition
- Empty brass cartridge cases for pistols
- Lead or copper-jacketed pistol bullets
- Rimfire pistol ammunition
- Also under 9306.30
- Federal Premium 9mm
- Hornady .223
- Winchester .308
- Speer bullets
- Starline brass
- CCI rifle primers
Codes often confused with 9306.30
Common mistake. Pistol cartridges are sometimes confused with 9306.21, which is reserved for shotgun cartridges. Additionally, individual components like primers or gunpowder are classified under 3603 or 3601 respectively, rather than 9306.30, when shipped as separate commodities.
Top exporters and importers of HS 930630 (the code used for pistol cartridges), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 930630 (the code used for pistol cartridges) in UN Comtrade data was Slovakia, with 43% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Slovakia, with 30% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 930630, not only pistol cartridges.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Slovakia $2.3B 43% of world exports
- 2 United States $704M 13% of world exports
- 3 South Korea $674M 12% of world exports
World total: $5.5B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Slovakia $1.3B 30% of world imports
- 2 Ukraine* ~$630M 15% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 United States $468M 11% of world imports
World total: $4.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for pistol cartridges
Brazil classifies pistol cartridges under NCM 9306.30.00: HS 9306.30 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about pistol cartridges
What is the HS code for Pistol cartridges?
The HS code for Pistol cartridges is 930630 (Ammunition; cartridges and parts thereof n.e.c. in heading no. 9306). The HS code for pistol cartridges and their parts is 9306.30.
How do I classify Pistol cartridges for customs?
Pistol cartridges is classified under HS code 930630 — Ammunition; cartridges and parts thereof n.e.c. in heading no. 9306. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include blank ammunition?
Yes, blank cartridges for pistols are generally classified under 9306.30 as they are considered a type of cartridge or part thereof.
Which countries are the top exporters of pistol cartridges (HS 930630)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 930630 (the code used for pistol cartridges) in UN Comtrade data were Slovakia ($2.3B, 43% of world exports), the United States ($704M) and South Korea ($674M). World exports came to about $5.5B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of pistol cartridges (HS 930630)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 930630 (the code used for pistol cartridges) in UN Comtrade data were Slovakia ($1.3B, 30% of world imports), Ukraine (about $630M) and the United States ($468M). World imports came to about $4.3B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Pistol cartridges the same in all countries?
The base HS code 930630 for Pistol cartridges is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for pistol cartridges in Brazil?
In Brazil, pistol cartridges (HS 930630) is classified under NCM 9306.30.00.