The ATF sent out word last week that they're doing sting operations on dealers to curtail the sale of handgun ammunition to minors. Apparently, somebody raised a stink somewhere.provided the buyer is 18 years of age or older, and the dealer is satisfied that it is for use in a rifle.
Official word is that, if a person under 21 specifically says they're buying ammunition for a rifle, it's OK to sell.
Many dealers have a policy of staring at someone under 21 and saying, "it's for a rifle, right?" If the person assents, it's considered copacetic. It's an old industry practice, and folks get a few chuckles out of it.
However, now the ATF says dealers aren't to do that. Given that there are stings going on in conjunction with this, it could be that some dealers are playing it close to the vest.
Call their corporate office, be civilized, and find out if they may have just misread the situation.