Ammo cans are your best option to provide safety. They also reduce ammunition exposure to moisture when properly stored. Ammo cans are airtight and use a rubber layer to ensure the ammunition is dry. Wet ammunition can easily corrode not only the casings but also the primers. The waterproof qualities of Ammo cans should be a consideration when buying one.
However, many experts have proved that these ammo cans are not entirely waterproof. Some instances reduce the ammo cans ability to keep moisture out significantly.
- When exposed to high temperature
- If exposed to water for long periods
- When they break or become defective
Different ammo cans also have different degrees of moisture tolerance. Here are some of the waterproof qualities of ammo cans and their limitations.
Waterproof Qualities and Limitations of Ammo Cans
The demand for moisture-free ammo safes has led to the innovations of “waterproof” ammo cans. Some companies claim that ammo cans can withstand flooded conditions. However, this claim mentions a certain number of hours. The companies also claim that the cans are waterproof up to a certain depth.
It is unavoidable for water to seep into the ammo safes and cans. This fact gives you the right to have reasonable doubts. The fireproof qualities of these ammo cans also do not work effectively. Therefore, ineffective fireproof qualities raise concerns about the waterproof qualities.
Waterproof or Actually Water Resistant Ammo Cans
Are ammo cans waterproof, as most companies claim? No, they are water resistant. Ammo cans manufacturers claim that expansion of the fire door seals can aid in keeping water out. These companies do not claim that the ammo cans are 100% waterproof but use the method to entice potential buyers.
The expanding door seals of your ammo can have a slow expansion rate. Therefore, it activates the seals after your ammo has already been exposed to the water. The ammo cans safes are ineffective in case of floods or exposure to much water.
A secondary seal is an alternative waterproofing method used in your ammo cans and gun safes. The seal fitting lies on the door up to a certain height. The method is likely to sound appealing to you and other potential customers.
However, these secondary seals are not completely waterproof as they have breathable membranes. According to Gun Reviews, these membranes installed in your ammo cans are not a match for fires. The review also states that the only way to make your ammo can waterproof is to seal them.
Moisture and Condensation
Plastic ammo cans have also undergone testing and confirmed to be very defective. According to Ruger Forum, plastic ammo cans have high rates of condensation. Reports claim that you should not leave plastic ammo cans out overnight. Quarter-filled plastic ammo can with moisture is the result you expect to find in the morning.
Therefore, this test has disqualified many claims from the ammo cans manufacturers. Some manufacturers still claim that the test was subject to bias due to poor-quality ammo cans usage. The companies will also try to convince you of the uniqueness of their products. Despite most people giving relevant reviews, these companies still spread the claims.
The metal ammo cans are also not suitable for re-use once the moisture seeps in the cans. The moisture will lead to compromising your ammunition if you continue to use the wet ammo can. These metal cans can also easily rust and need you to be extra careful of their rubber seals.
The rubber seals are what provide the moisture-stopping membranes in regular ammo cans. To avoid the chances of moisture seepage, ensure that the rubber seals are intact. These metal cans are also not dependable once placed near water bodies.
Ammo cans have proven to have the deficient ability of waterproof qualities, but they do offer some water resistance. There are steps you can take to improve moisture resistance. These steps will ensure longer shelf life for your ammunition if adequately followed.
Keep Your Ammo Cans off the Floor
It would help if you intelligently kept your ammo cans away from water. Placing your ammo cans on high ground avails fewer chances of water damage to your ammunition.
Using a raised metal platform is the best option to keep your ammo cans off the ground. A wooden platform can quickly rot or burn down in case of a fire. Insects may also take advantage and ruin your wooden platform. Metal platforms do not hold water, hence, cannot corrode the bottom of your ammo safe and cans.
Using a Moisture Barrier
A moisture barrier can be an alternative when placing your ammo cans on the ground. There is less protection at the bottom of your ammo cans due to the reduced layer of paints. This quality makes the surface a risky place to place your ammunition.
There are tons of moisture barriers that can help you keep off water leakages. Rubber hoses can serve the purpose of water protection best. Moisture barriers guard the ammo cans from direct contact with surface moisture.
Using a Dehumidifier or Desiccant
An electric dehumidifier or a desiccant dehumidifier is suitable to deal with moisture. Placing your cans near an electric dehumidifier raises the temperature of the surroundings. The rise in the temperatures helps warm the ammo cans and get rid of moisture in the air. As a result, less relative humidity keeps ammo cans dry and the ammo safe.
The electric humidifier also helps to keep temperatures constant around your ammo cans. As a result, a reduced rate of condensation keeps your ammo cans dry and maintains moisture levels.
A desiccant dehumidifier absorbs moisture from the ammo cans instead. Silica gel is an example of a chemical that is useful in absorbing water from your cans. Some desiccant chemicals are also corrosive. These desiccants can affect the state of your ammunition. Proper research into non-corrosive desiccants is, therefore, vital to avoid losses. Rechargeable desiccants are also an option you can use in your ammo boxes.
Using Rust Preventives on Your Ammo Cans
Marine lanoline-based grease helps protect your ammunition for long-term periods. It is suitable to prevent the development of rust on your stored ammo. You ultimately have to apply the grease on every inch of your ammunition’s surface. To ensure the effectiveness of the oil, you can also use it inside the ammo cans surface.
Conclusion
Are ammo cans waterproof? Ammo cans are generally not waterproof but rather water resistant. You should provide moisture-free conditions as the owner of the ammunition. With the help of ammo cans and safe designs, you can store your ammo long term. The measures mentioned above will be helpful to ensure your ammo have a longer shelf life.
