Essential Guide: How to Maintain Ammunition for Longevity

 How to Maintain Ammunition

Ammunition is a critical part of any shooter’s gear, whether for hunting, sport shooting, or self-defense. However, gun owners need to treat their ammo with care to prevent loss due to mishandling, highlighting the importance of thoughtful storage practices along with firearm care. Storing it correctly, keeping it dry, and inspecting it regularly are key factors in maintaining the integrity and safety of your ammunition. Proper ammo storage is crucial, as temperature fluctuations can impact the preservation and performance of your ammunition. In this guide, we’ll cover essential tips on how to maintain your ammunition, so it stays safe, effective, and ready for use.

1. Proper Ammunition Storage

The way you store your ammunition is one of the most important factors in maintaining its quality and longevity.

Having a supply of ammo stored is crucial to mitigate shortages during uncertain times.

Store in a Dry, Cool Place

• Temperature Control: Properly storing ammunition is crucial to ensure its longevity and safety. Ammunition should be stored in a cool, dry location. Temperature fluctuations can also lead to damage. Extreme heat or humidity can damage the ammo and cause it to degrade faster. Ideally, keep ammo in a space with a temperature range of 50-70°F (10-21°C) and relative humidity below 50%.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can cause the casing to weaken and lead to faster degradation of the powder inside. Always store ammo in a dark area or in containers that block light.

Use Proper Storage Containers

• Ammo Cans: Use airtight, waterproof ammo cans with a rubber seal to protect ammo from moisture and air exposure. Military-style cans are excellent for storing large quantities of ammo. Various types of ammunition containers, such as ammo lockers, dedicated ammunition boxes, ammo cans, magazines, and factory boxes, offer different advantages and disadvantages in terms of security, size, portability, and protection from environmental elements.

• Ammunition Boxes: For smaller quantities, commercial ammo boxes or plastic storage containers designed for ammo are effective. These boxes should be kept sealed when not in use.

• Avoid Plastic Bags: While they may seem convenient, plastic bags can trap moisture, leading to rust and corrosion on the ammo.

Elevate from the Floor

• Keep Ammo Off the Ground: Store ammunition off the floor to avoid exposure to moisture or flooding. Use shelving, cabinets, or crates to elevate the ammo containers.

2. Handling Ammunition with Care

How you handle ammunition plays a role in its longevity and effectiveness. Having a sufficient supply of practice ammo is crucial for regular training sessions, as it is cost-effective compared to serious ammo. Properly stored ammunition can significantly extend its longevity and performance.

Avoid Dropping Ammunition

• Impact Sensitivity: Ammo, especially modern centerfire rounds, can be sensitive to impact. Dropping ammo, especially onto hard surfaces, can cause misfires or damage the round. Additionally, impact can affect the gun powder inside the ammunition, potentially compromising its performance.

• Handle with Care: Treat ammunition as you would any other sensitive equipment. Avoid dropping, crushing, or rough handling.

Keep Ammunition in its Original Packaging

• Packaging Integrity: Ammo often comes in specially designed boxes or packs for a reason. Keeping ammo in its original packaging helps maintain its integrity and protects it from external elements like dirt, dust, and moisture. Additionally, labeling and organizing loose ammo properly ensures easy identification and helps in distinguishing different types of ammo.

• Re-Seal Packages if Needed: If you remove ammo from the original packaging, ensure you reseal it in an airtight bag or container to prevent exposure to the elements.

3. Cleaning Ammunition

Ammunition doesn’t require much cleaning, but it’s still important to inspect and clean it when necessary to ensure it remains reliable. Additionally, regularly inspect stored ammo for any signs of damage or degradation to maintain its effectiveness.

Inspect for Damage

• Check Casings for Corrosion or Cracks: Always inspect ammo for visible damage, such as corrosion, cracks, or dents in the casing. If you notice any damage, dispose of the round safely. Damaged ammo can cause misfires or unsafe conditions.

• Check for Rust: If ammunition has been exposed to moisture or humidity, check the casings for signs of rust. Rust can cause the round to malfunction or jam in your firearm.

Clean the Ammo Boxes and Storage Containers

• Keep Containers Clean: Clean your ammo boxes and cans periodically to remove dust, dirt, and moisture. A simple wipe down with a dry cloth is typically sufficient, but for storage containers that may have been exposed to moisture, use a desiccant or a moisture absorber.

• Use Silica Gel: Placing silica gel packs inside storage containers can help absorb any moisture that might accumulate. This is particularly useful if you're storing ammo in less-than-ideal conditions.

4. Monitor Expiration and Shelf Life

Ammunition doesn’t last forever, and its performance can degrade over time, especially under poor storage conditions. It's important to know how much ammo to keep on hand based on your household's shooting habits and storage considerations. While ammunition does not technically expire, many manufacturers recommend not keeping ammunition for more than 10 years and suggest using a FIFO rotation method for optimal usage to manage ammunition shelf life.

Know the Shelf Life of Your Ammo

Shelf Life: Most modern ammo has a long shelf life when stored properly, typically 10 to 15 years, though some types of ammo may last even longer. Using a FIFO rotation method can help manage ammunition shelf life effectively. However, exposure to heat, humidity, or excessive handling can significantly reduce its longevity.

Check Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage times and conditions. Some ammo types, like rimfire, may have a shorter lifespan due to the materials used in their construction.

Rotate Your Stock

First In, First Out (FIFO): When storing multiple boxes or cases of ammunition, consider rotating your stock using the FIFO method. This ensures that older rounds are used first, preventing any rounds from sitting around for too long and becoming less reliable. Properly stored ammunition can last longer and remain reliable, even under varying conditions.

Inspect Ammo Periodically

• Routine Inspections: Even if you don’t plan to use your ammo right away, check your stock periodically for damage. Look for visible signs of corrosion, moisture, or degradation of the powder.

5. Disposal of Expired or Damaged Ammunition

If ammunition is beyond its shelf life or shows signs of damage, it’s crucial to dispose of it safely.

Before disposal, it's important to find the best locations to safely store ammunition, ensuring a cool, dry environment that minimizes the risk of damage or deterioration.

How to Safely Dispose of Ammo

• Never Attempt to Disassemble Ammo: Never try to disassemble ammunition or remove the primer, powder, or bullet. This can be extremely dangerous and is not recommended.

• Contact Local Authorities or Ammunition Disposal Services: Many law enforcement agencies and firing ranges offer ammunition disposal services. Contact them to safely dispose of any outdated or damaged rounds.

Safe Storage for Disposal

• Don’t Throw Ammo in the Trash: Never dispose of ammunition by simply throwing it in the trash. It can pose a significant risk to sanitation workers and the environment.

• Use Designated Disposal Services: If you need to get rid of old or damaged ammo, find a local hazardous materials disposal service or contact your local police department for guidance on safe disposal methods.

6. Storing Ammo for Specific Uses

Certain types of ammunition may require special care, depending on their intended use or construction. It is crucial to find the best practices to store ammo safely, ensuring it remains in optimal condition and is readily accessible when needed.

For Reloaders

Keep Primers and Powder Separate: If you’re reloading ammo, keep primers and gunpowder stored separately to prevent accidental reactions. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe handling and storage. Additionally, ensure that gun powder is kept in a cool, dry place to avoid damage from moisture and extreme temperatures.

For Long-Term Storage

Vacuum-Sealed Bags: For long-term storage, consider vacuum-sealing your ammo or using airtight containers. This adds an extra layer of protection against moisture and ensures that your rounds remain pristine. Additionally, using proper ammunition containers such as ammo lockers, dedicated ammunition boxes, ammo cans, magazines, and factory boxes can provide enhanced security, size options, portability, and protection from environmental elements.

For Hunting Ammo

Weather-Proofing: If you’re storing hunting ammo, make sure it’s in a waterproof case, especially if you hunt in areas with unpredictable weather. Waterproof cases protect the rounds from getting wet and losing performance. Properly stored ammunition can maintain its performance even in harsh weather conditions.

Conclusion

Maintaining ammunition is essential for ensuring it performs when you need it most. By storing your ammo in a dry, cool environment, handling it with care, and performing regular inspections, you can extend its lifespan and maintain its reliability. Regularly clean storage containers, monitor ammo expiration, and dispose of damaged or outdated rounds responsibly. With proper care, your ammunition will stay in top condition, ensuring you’re always prepared for your next outing, whether for hunting, shooting sports, or self-defense.

FAQs

How long can ammunition be stored?

Ammunition can be stored for 10 to 15 years or longer when kept in proper conditions—cool, dry environments with minimal moisture exposure. While ammunition does not technically expire, many manufacturers recommend not keeping ammunition for more than 10 years, and suggest using a FIFO rotation method for optimal usage to manage ammunition shelf life.

What’s the best way to store ammo long-term?

Store ammo in airtight, waterproof containers like ammo cans or vacuum-sealed bags. Ensure the storage area is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight.

Using proper ammunition containers, such as ammo lockers, dedicated ammunition boxes, and factory boxes, provides enhanced security, optimal size, portability, and protection from environmental elements.

How can I tell if my ammo is expired?

Check for visible signs of rust, corrosion, or damage to the casing. If the ammo feels unusually heavy, or the bullet looks misshapen, it’s likely not safe to use. Additionally, regularly inspect stored ammo for any signs of damage or degradation to ensure it remains safe and effective.

How do I dispose of old or damaged ammo?

Never dispose of ammo in the trash. Contact local law enforcement or hazardous materials disposal services for proper ammunition disposal. Before disposal, it is crucial to find the best locations to safely store ammunition, ensuring a cool, dry environment and using airtight containers to minimize risks.

Can I use old ammunition?

If stored properly, ammunition can last a long time. However, if the ammo is visibly damaged or shows signs of corrosion, it should be disposed of safely.

How often should I inspect my ammunition?

It's good practice to inspect your ammo every six months to a year, looking for signs of corrosion, moisture, or damage. Rotate older stock to ensure you're using the oldest rounds first.

Is it safe to store ammunition with firearms?

No. Always store ammo in a lockable container away from firearms.