DoD’s decision to stop recycling used brass is a big deal, impacting ammo availability.
They now scrap, rather than make available for reloading.
Your information is at least 4 years old and incorrect.
http://www.ammoland.com/2009/03/dod-demil-order-on-used-brass-reversed/#axzz2QADOPr9d
Check local metal recyclers for range brass.
In my area, you can buy scrap range brass for $3/lb. Most of it is popular calibers, i.e., 9MM, .40S&W, .223, .45 Auto, etc. Less than 10% in calibers other than the popular ones. It comes out to less than 3 cents for a 9MM case and less than 5 cents for .223.
Reloaders already know this and buy the scrap to turn into ammo.
The nationwide shortage is starting to abate. Last week’s gun show had plenty at higher, but still reasonable, prices. They never ran out of premium, expensive stuff like CorBon.
Relax and wait for prices to stabilize. Then stock up on a regular basis.
Right now there are bargains on excellent deer rifles because people are spending their money on ARs, AKs, overpriced ammo, etc.