Proper ammunition storage is crucial for safety, longevity, and reliable performance. Improper storage can lead to degradation of the propellant, corrosion of the casings, and even dangerous situations. This blog will guide you through the best practices for storing your ammo.
The Key Factors: Temperature, Humidity, and Light
Three primary factors influence the lifespan and reliability of ammunition:
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can negatively impact the propellant. High temperatures can accelerate the breakdown of the propellant, leading to inconsistent performance and potentially dangerous pressure spikes. Extreme cold can make some propellants brittle.
- Humidity: Moisture is the enemy of ammunition. High humidity can cause corrosion of the casings, primers, and bullets, rendering the ammunition unreliable or even unusable.
- Light: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or other bright light can also degrade the propellant.
Best Practices for Ammunition Storage
Following these guidelines will help ensure your ammunition remains in optimal condition:
- Cool and Dry Environment: Store your ammunition in a cool, dry place with stable temperatures. Avoid areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as garages, attics, or car trunks. Ideal storage temperatures are between 50-70°F (10-21°C).
- Low Humidity: Keep humidity levels as low as possible, ideally below 50%. Use desiccant packs or dehumidifiers in your storage area to absorb excess moisture. Avoid storing ammunition in damp basements or areas with high humidity.
- Dark Storage: Store ammunition in a dark place away from direct sunlight or bright artificial light. Original packaging or opaque containers are ideal.
- Airtight Containers: Store ammunition in airtight, waterproof containers to protect it from moisture and humidity. Military surplus ammo cans are a popular and effective option. Plastic containers with airtight seals are also suitable.
- Original Packaging: If possible, keep ammunition in its original packaging. This provides some protection and helps with identification.
- Proper Labeling: Clearly label all containers with the caliber, bullet weight, and date of purchase. This makes it easy to identify and manage your ammunition inventory.
- Away from Flammable Materials: Never store ammunition near flammable materials such as gasoline, solvents, or cleaning supplies.
- Security: Store ammunition in a secure location, out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals. Gun safes or lockable cabinets are recommended.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Storing Ammo in Extreme Temperatures: Avoid storing ammo in places like car trunks, attics, or garages where temperatures can fluctuate drastically.
- Storing Ammo in High Humidity Environments: Basements, bathrooms, or other damp areas are unsuitable for ammunition storage.
- Storing Ammo Loose: Avoid storing loose rounds in open containers or bags, as this can lead to damage and degradation.
- Mixing Different Types of Ammo: Keep different calibers and types of ammunition separate to avoid confusion and potential accidents.
Long-Term Storage
For long-term storage (several years or more), consider these additional steps:
- Vacuum Sealing: Vacuum sealing ammunition in airtight bags can provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and air.
- Climate-Controlled Storage: If you have a large ammunition collection, consider investing in a climate-controlled storage unit specifically designed for firearms and ammunition.
Inspecting Your Ammunition
Periodically inspect your stored ammunition for signs of damage or degradation:
- Corrosion: Check for any signs of rust or corrosion on the casings or bullets.
- Dents or Damage: Inspect the casings for dents, cracks, or other damage.
- Loose Bullets: Check if the bullets are seated securely in the casings.
- Powder Degradation: Look for signs of powder degradation, such as clumping or discoloration.
If you find any damaged or degraded ammunition, it’s best to dispose of it safely according to local regulations.
Conclusion
Proper ammunition storage is a crucial aspect of responsible firearm ownership. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your ammunition remains safe, reliable, and ready for use when you need it. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.
