Saturday, January 27, 2024

Long Term Ammo Storage Tips

"Keep Your Powder Dry - Keeping the storage environment at low-humidity is important.

Avoid Extreme Heat - You can expect your ammunition to last for years as long as you protect it from extreme heat, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.  Ammunition stored at room temperature with low humidity can function reliably for decades.  Don't store it in a vehicle in AZ!

Store In A Dark Area - Ammo stored in a dark place such as a closet or safe, suffers fewer effects of UV light. The use of solid materials for storage containers instead of clear plastic can reduce exposure to damaging light. E.G. a 50 caliber or 30 caliber ammo cans.

Ammunition For The End Of The World - It is possible to further inhibit corrosion ... a lot of sealed bags or containers are designed to prevent moisture from getting in. Fed'l Champion Fresh Fire Packs have 325 .22 LR cartridges in nitrogen-sealed cans to keep moisture out.  
US / NATO military 5.56X45 ammo is sometimes sold sealed in thick sealed plastic bags.

There are many types of Russian-made surplus "Spam Cans." Both air and water are sealed tightly out of the steel cans, making them difficult to open.

Rubber O-rings are usually found around the rims of surplus ammo-cans to prevent moisture and gas from entering. WD-40 or gun oil can be applied very lightly to enhance this seal.

Put It In A Gun Safe - This prevents the ammo from being accessed by children or pets and protecting it from the weather.  With a good (fireproof) gun safe, moisture will not accumulate (you may want to use a dehumidifier or desiccant packets to be sure), and your ammunition will be protected from extreme temperature fluctuations."

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