Walmart has won praise from gun control advocates for its decision to discontinue sales of certain guns. But whether they will translate into fewer guns on the street is an open question.

New York (AFP) - Walmart will halt sales of ammunition for handguns and some military-style rifles, the company announced Tuesday, calling the status quo on firearms in the United States "unacceptable."

The new policy comes after 2 deadly shootings at Walmart stores this summer.

Walmart Inc. will phase out sales of ammunition for handguns and short-barrel rifles, eliminating a small chunk of its sales to make a big political statement.

Walmart's decision to ban handgun ammunition sales is reviewed. The author outlines three reasons why the decision was a good one in terms of protecting and building the Walmart brand.

Walmart is further requesting that customers refrain from openly carrying firearms at its stores unless they are law enforcement officers.