Where can I purchase potassium nitrate over the counter?

Question

preferably somewhere in or around san francisco. thank you for taking the time to read and respond to my question!

Answer 1

KNO3, potassium nitrate is also known as "salt peter"; inevitably, you will have to contact chemical supply houses to purchase it.  KNO3 has some specific uses, fireworks, making nitric acid; and as it is often used in explosives, our US government is not so keen on letting it get into the hands of kids (and terrorists).  You can try to open an account with a local chemical supply house near where you live.  You'll probably need a credit card, and many chemical suppliers still may not sell it to you.  IF anyone offers it in like a 25 gram bottle, you may have a chance; it's almost unthinkable that anyone will sell you 1000 kg of it, and if you tried to order large quantities. then someone might alert the authorities.  It is very doubtful that anyone will sell it to you on a cash basis.  Your parents may have more luck as some places won't sell any chemical to kids.  I don't think you can walk into any hobby store, or drug store, etc., and find it on the shelf.

If you are doing something at school, WITH guidance from your science teacher, your school has the ability to purchase it.  Speak to  your teacher; if it's a legitimate request, you'll do okay.  If you want to do something with that will get you into trouble, you should just forget about it!