Have you ever wondered why your ammunition seems to lose its effectiveness over time? Humidity and moisture can be the culprits of your ammunition’s shortened lifespan. When you store your ammunition in an environment with high humidity, it can cause your bullets to corrode and result in misfires. In this blog post, we will discuss how humidity affects your ammo storage and ways to preserve your ammunition’s quality.
Humidity’s effect on ammo storage
Humidity is the amount of moisture present in the air. When your ammunition is stored in an area with high humidity, it can cause the bullets to corrode. This deterioration of your bullets can lead to misfires and a loss of accuracy. The moist conditions provide an ideal environment for the growth of mold and bacteria, which can also lead to reduced effectiveness of your ammunition.
Impact of Humidity on Gunpowder
Humidity can also adversely affect the gunpowder inside of the ammunition. Gunpowder is made up of chemicals that are highly sensitive to moisture. When exposed to high humidity, the gunpowder can absorb moisture, which can cause it to degrade quickly. This degradation can cause the gunpowder to lose its explosive power, resulting in misfires and a loss of accuracy.
Ways to Store Your Ammo
To avoid the negative effects of humidity on your ammunition, you should store it in a dry and cool place. The ideal temperature range for storing ammunition is between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also ensure that the storage area is free from moisture and humidity. Airtight containers are the best way to prevent moisture and humidity from affecting your ammunition. You can also use desiccant packs to absorb any moisture that may be present.
Use of Dehumidifiers
Another effective way of reducing the effects of humidity on your ammo storage is by using a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier reduces the amount of moisture in the air, keeping the environment dry. You can use a desiccant dehumidifier or an electric dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels. These devices work by absorbing or removing the moisture from the surrounding air, ensuring that your ammunition stays in top condition.
Proper Maintenance of firearms
Lastly, to ensure that your ammunition does not lose its effectiveness due to humidity, you must properly maintain your firearms. Proper maintenance removes any moisture or debris that may have accumulated in your firearms. Corrosion caused by moisture can damage the metal parts of your firearm, which can also result in misfires. Regular cleaning and lubrication of your firearms can help prevent these issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, humid conditions can severely affect your ammunition’s quality. The high levels of moisture can cause corrosion and result in misfires and a loss of accuracy. To ensure that your ammunition stays in great condition, it needs to be stored in a dry and cool place away from moisture and humidity. You can use various methods such as using a dehumidifier, airtight containers, and desiccant packs for storing your ammunition.
Proper maintenance of your firearms is equally important to prevent moisture damage. By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your ammunition stays effective and safe to use for an extended period.