As an ammo enthusiast, it’s important to understand that several factors affect the longevity of ammunition. Temperature and humidity are two of the critical factors that can negatively impact ammo quality. Whether you are an avid hunter, competitive shooter, or gun owner, you should know how to store your ammo properly to keep it in the best condition. In this guide, we will discuss how temperature and humidity affect ammo longevity.
Temperature Impact on Ammo Longevity
As a general rule, hotter temperatures lead to shorter ammo longevity. High temperatures can cause the casing to expand, which can damage the bullet and case. The heat can also affect the propellant, which can break down and cause the ammo to become less effective. Increased temperatures can also cause lubricants to evaporate, leaving the ammo prone to rust and other types of damage.
On the other end, freezing temperatures can be harmful to ammo too. The cold can cause the bullet to crack or expand and can lead to the degradation of the bullet materials. When you store your ammo in temperatures below freezing, moisture can accumulate both inside and outside its casing. This moisture can cause corrosion, rust, or other failure mechanisms to develop.
Humidity Impact on Ammo Longevity
Humidity is another critical factor when it comes to ammo longevity. When you store ammo in a humid place, moisture can affect the bullets’ surface, leading to degradation of the powder and ignition materials, and causing bullet corrosion. Humidity can also cause the ammo to stick, leading to damage. High humidity may also promote chemical reactions that can make the bullet less effective, or even dangerous to use.
When storing ammo, it’s best to keep it in a cool, dry place. A low-humidity environment is ideal for ammo storage to avoid any warping or damage caused by moisture. However, if you live in a humid area, you may need desiccants, such as silica gel, to absorb excess moisture in the air.
Conclusion
In conclusion, temperature and humidity are two critical factors when it comes to extending ammo longevity. Too much heat can lead to expansion and damage, while extreme cold can cause bullet cracking, expansion, and degradation. High humidity, on the other hand, can cause corrosion, rust, and other types of bullet corrosion. By understanding what affects ammo quality, you can take the necessary precautions to store your ammo properly and keep it in good condition. Keep your ammo stored in a cool, dry place, and use desiccants to absorb excess air moisture. Good storage can extend the longevity of your ammo and maintain its quality so that you can enjoy and use it whenever needed.
