Ammunition is a crucial part of gun ownership that needs to be maintained, just like firearms. Whether you’re a recreational shooter or an avid hunter, storing your ammunition properly is vital to ensure its reliability and safety. Failing to store ammo correctly can lead to malfunctions, fires, and other safety hazards. With that in mind, we’ve put together some best practices for storing ammo efficiently, so you can keep your ammunition safe and ready for use at any time.
Keep ammo in its original packaging
The original packaging is designed to protect the ammunition from wear and tear. It also contains important information such as caliber, gun type, and appropriate use, which could be useful in the future. Whenever possible, keep the ammo in its original packaging. Avoid transferring it to other containers.
Store ammo in a cool, dry, and dark place
Ammunition can be affected by temperature and humidity, causing it to deteriorate faster than usual. Exposure to sunlight can cause the bullet cases to expand, leading to malfunctions. A cool, dry, and dark place like a safe or cabinet is ideal to prevent temperature fluctuations and unnecessary exposure to the elements.
Avoid storing ammo near heat sources
Heat sources like stoves, fireplaces, and heaters can cause ammunition to degrade and even combust. It’s best to avoid storing ammo near any heat source, even if it seems insignificant. Heat can build up slowly over a long time, making the ammo more vulnerable to degradation without realizing it.
Keep track of expiration dates
Like any other item, ammo has an expiration date when it becomes less reliable. Keep track of the expiration date on each ammo box so that you can use it before it becomes unreliable. Outdated ammunition can lead to misfires or even cartridge explosions, which can be dangerous.
Practice proper labeling
If you’ve removed the ammo from its original packaging to fit it into a smaller container, you’ll need to label it appropriately. Write down the caliber, type of ammo, and any other relevant information on the container to avoid confusion later on. Misidentification of caliber can lead to injury, damage to the firearm, or even death.
Conclusion
Storing ammo correctly is not only essential for its longevity but also for your safety. These best practices ensure that you keep your ammo ready to use and prevent any accidents. Storing ammo correctly also ensures accuracy and efficiency while using the firearm. By keeping your ammunition in its original packaging, storing it in cool, dry, and dark places, avoiding heat sources, keeping track of expiration dates, and practicing proper labeling, you can be confident in your ammo’s reliability and safety. A little effort goes a long way in preserving your ammunition for future use.
